The Clarendon County Democratic Party hosted a lively Get Out the Vote Rally on October 12, 2024, at the Land Parker Welch Law Firm courtyard in Manning, South Carolina. The event, which drew local political leaders, activists, and voters, featured South Carolina Congressman James E. Clyburn of the 6th District as the special guest speaker. Rally organizers and speakers encouraged voter participation in the upcoming November 5 election and emphasized the need for unity among the Democratic candidates.
Mayor Julia Nelson of Manning opened the event with a warm welcome, setting a positive tone for the afternoon. “We are gathered here today to make sure we take Clarendon County forward. Together, we can achieve great things,” she said to a cheering crowd.
The rally continued with an impassioned speech by Kevin Johnson, State Senator for District 36, who highlighted the importance of teamwork among local leaders. “The Congressman talked about teamwork, and a lot of things we have done as a team. But the other side is trying to destroy everything we’ve worked hard for,” Johnson said. He also pointed out the impact of misinformation in local elections, noting that it was critical for voters to do their homework. “Just do your homework,” he urged. “Let’s get these young people out to the polls. It’s going to be a turnout election.”
John C. Land III, a retired South Carolina Senator for District 36, reinforced Johnson’s message by speaking about the power of local representation. “We have one of the most powerful men in Washington right here with us. Congressman Clyburn can benefit Clarendon County more than anyone, more so than even the president,” Land said, expressing his confidence in the congressman’s ability to bring resources to the area. “I pledge to you, Jim Clyburn, that Clarendon County is going to be in your winner’s column this time.”
As the rally progressed, Patricia Pringle, Chairwoman of the Clarendon County Democratic Party, took the stage to recognize elected officials and Democratic nominees. “These are people who will represent us and have our children’s best interest at heart,” she said. She emphasized the importance of voting straight-ticket Democrat in the upcoming election and highlighted the critical role of local elections, including the school board race. “We need to make sure we elect school board members who are for the children, not for some hidden agenda,” Pringle added.
The highlight of the event was Congressman Clyburn’s speech, which touched on his deep connection to Clarendon County, the history of civil rights, and his vision for the future. “Clarendon County is very important to me because it was the people here who decided it was time to break with the past,” Clyburn said, referencing the county’s role in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. “Every time legislation comes across my desk, I think of Clarendon County.”
Clyburn also spoke about the importance of infrastructure development, highlighting the work being done on the Lake Marion Bridge, which will include water pipes to improve access to clean drinking water for the region. “This isn’t just a bridge; it’s a healthcare project,” Clyburn said. “It will bring jobs and industry to Clarendon County, but it takes teamwork.”
The congressman also stressed the need for early voting and collective action. “We need to drag everybody we can find who’s registered to vote and let them know they have to vote,” Clyburn urged. He explained that the Democratic agenda, including infrastructure improvements and broadband expansion, is already transforming South Carolina. “Every home and business in South Carolina will be connected to the internet by the end of next year, thanks to the Biden administration.”
The event concluded with a final selection by Julius “P.J.” Ragin, whose powerful rendition of “I Just Can’t Give Up Now” resonated with the crowd, underscoring the rally’s theme of perseverance and hope. Tropical Paradise catered the event, providing food for attendees, and the event closed with a call to action from Pringle, reminding everyone of the early voting period beginning on October 21.
Democratic voters left the rally energized, with a strong sense of community and responsibility. Congressman Clyburn’s parting words, “Teamwork will bring Clarendon County to the next level,” echoed the rally’s sentiment: that united, they can ensure progress for the county and its future.