On October 12, 2024, the Clarendon County Democratic Party hosted a lively Get Out the Vote Rally in Manning, South Carolina’s Land Parker Welch Law Firm courtyard. Local political leaders, activists, and voters attended the event, which featured South Carolina Congressman James E. Clyburn of the 6th District as a special guest speaker. Rally organizers and speakers urged voters to vote in the forthcoming November 5 election, emphasizing the importance of unity among Democratic candidates.
Mayor Julia Nelson of Manning welcomed attendees and set the tone for the afternoon. “We’re here today to ensure that Clarendon County moves forward.” “We can accomplish great things together,” she told the enthusiastic crowd.
Kevin Johnson, State Senator for District 36, delivered an emotional statement during the event, emphasizing the necessity of collaboration among local officials. “The Congressman discussed collaboration and the many things we’ve accomplished as a group. “But the other side is attempting to destroy everything we’ve worked so hard for,” Johnson remarked. He also addressed the impact of misinformation in municipal elections, emphasizing the need for voters to do their homework. “Just do your homework,” he said. “Let us get these young folks to the polls. It is going to be a turnout election.”
John C. Land III, a retired South Carolina Senator representing District 36, echoed Johnson’s message by emphasizing the importance of local participation. John C. Land III, a retired South Carolina Senator representing District 36, joined us. “I pledge to you, Jim Clyburn, that Clarendon County is going to be in your winner’s column this time.”
As the gathering progressed, Patricia Pringle, Clarendon County Democratic Party Chairwoman, approached the stage to applaud elected officials and Democratic nominees. “These are people who will represent us and have our children’s best interests at heart,” she informed us. She underlined the necessity of voting straight-ticket Democrats in the upcoming election, as well as the significance of local elections, especially the school board race. “We need to make sure we elect school board members who are for the children, not for some hidden agenda,” says Pringle.
The event’s centerpiece was Congressman Clyburn’s speech, which discussed his profound 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, referring to the county’s involvement in the famous Brown v. Board of Education case. “Every time legislation comes across my desk, I think of Clarendon County.”
Clyburn also emphasized the necessity of infrastructure development, citing the Lake Marion Bridge project, which would contain water pipelines to increase the region’s access to safe drinking water. “This isn’t just a bridge; it’s a healthcare project,” Clyburn explained. “It will bring jobs and industry to Clarendon County, but it takes teamwork.”
The lawmaker emphasized the importance of early voting and team action. “We need to drag everybody we can find who’s registered to vote and let them know they have to vote,” Clyburn requested. He outlined how the Democratic platform, which includes infrastructure upgrades and broadband expansion, is already changing South Carolina. “The Biden administration will connect every home and business in South Carolina to the internet by the end of next year.”
The event finished with a final selection by Julius “P.J.” Ragin, whose passionate version of “I Just Can’t Give Up Now” captivated the audience and emphasized the rally’s theme of perseverance and hope. Tropical Paradise catered the dinner, and Pringle ended it with a call to action, reminding everyone about the early voting period, which begins on October 21.
Democratic voters exited the event electrified, with a strong sense of belonging and obligation. Congressman Clyburn’s final comments, “Teamwork will bring Clarendon County to the next level,” echoed the rally’s sentiment: by working together, they can secure success for the county and its future.
