Congressman James Clyburn - Complete Interview

An interview on racism and affirmative action.

Review

In the beginning of the interview, Helfeld asked Congressman Clyburn "If you use race as a factor when evaluating another person’s skills, merits or character instead of focusing strictly on their actions, is that racial discrimination." He said: "Absolutely." Later, in attempt to be consistent he claimed that he had said it was only racial discrimination if it was soley based on race.

Transcript

Helfeld: Previously I asked you if it was racial discrimination to use race as a factor when evaluating another person’s skills merits or character instead of focusing strictly on their actions and you said yes.
Clyburn: No, you used the word soley, soley, go back and check what you said.
Helfeld: No…
Clyburn: If it is the sole reason irrespective of their merits.
Helfeld: I am sorry Congressman, we could play it back again for you and you could see that I said a factor.

Notwithstanding the above mentioned blatant denial, Congressman Clyburn accepted that the sole reason that a white Congressman could not become a voting member of the CBC was his race. Then he repeatedly both agreed and denied that this was racial discrimination. He also contradicted himself on whether racial discrimination was morally wrong. First he said it was and then he claimed it was not.

In spite of having these and other contradictions clearly revealed, the interview ended on a positive note when the Congressman thanked Helfeld for the interview and said "bring me back again." After the interview the Congressman said to his staff "I am having fun, why are you trying to rush me off."

Clyburn "It's fine to discriminate"

Rep. Clyburn contradicts himself several times. He says it is fine to discriminate solely on race and at the same time, he says it is a mistake and morally wrong.

Congressman Clyburn on Racism

Clyburn contradicts himself on what constitutes racism and then tries to wiggle out of the contradiction by misstating the question he had been asked. Watch the blatant misstatement.

Runtime: 28 minutes
Price: $12.00