By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Producer

Posted Jan. 17, 2008 – As the Democratic presidential candidates get ready for the Nevada caucus, South Carolina’s highest-ranking Black lawmaker is making plans to find out what’s going on in his home state. 

House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) returned to Washington Monday and spent most of his time this week referring the two Democratic presidential front-runners. Now, with that under control, he may find himself doing it all over again in his home state. 

I had heard the Clinton camp was waging a “rumor campaign” in South Carolina, targeting her rival Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.).  Details were scratchy, but it ranged from going after his stance on issues to veiled personal attacks. 

Clyburn told me he wasn’t aware of any such actions by any of the campaigns, but added, he had been told that his presence would be welcome in the Palmetto State. 
 
 “I’ve been told I should get home, and see what’s going on….I don’t know what’s happening on the ground – but I’m thinking about going home a little early,” Clyburn said.

Clyburn isn’t endorsing any of the candidates.  He gave his word to the Democratic National Committee and South Carolina state legislators that he would remain neutral as part of the negotiations to get South Carolina as one of the early primary states.
 

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