Rep. Jim Clyburn Supports Expanding Supreme Court to 13 Justices, Expresses Regret Over Clarence Thomas Defense
Representative Jim Clyburn (D-SC) has publicly voiced his support for expanding the U.S. Supreme Court to 13 justices. During an appearance on NBC News's 'Meet the Press,' Clyburn endorsed the idea, which has been proposed by some within the Democratic Party, including former Vice President Kamala Harris. He stated that 13 would be a 'pretty good number' for the court, suggesting it would help ensure justices adhere to the constitutional underpinnings of the nation. Clyburn also expressed regret over his past defense of Justice Clarence Thomas during Thomas's 1991 confirmation process. He admitted that he had considered Thomas a 'good friend' at the time and supported him despite political differences, but now believes it was a mistake, remarking that he 'had no idea that Clarence Thomas would rebel the way he has against his own background and experiences.' Clyburn criticized Thomas for moving 'from an angry leftist to a very angry rightist,' referencing Thomas's earlier activist days. 
