Clyburn endorsing Obama

Rep. James Clyburn of South Carolina, the highest ranking African American member of Congress, has endorsed Senator Barack Obama for president. Clyburn, who has maintained his neutrality throughout the Democratic primary campaign, has become increasingly critical of the conduct of the Clinton campaign in recent months. Clyburn is the House Majority Whip.

The Washington Post reported that the endorsement would come on Tuesday, which is when at least 34 members of Congress are expected to announce their support for Barack Obama, according to NBC News. Clyburn made the endorsement official on NBC's "Today" Show on Tuesday.

"I've decided to cast my delegate ballot for Senator Barack Obama," Clyburn said on the "Today" show. "I think that, as I watch this campaign unfold, he is elevating the political rhetoric. He's elevating our party. He's energizing our country. He is bringing to the process new voters, young voters, older voters, people who are in thirst of a new vision for our country."

Editor's Note: Story updated, Tuesday, June 3, 2008, 9:48 a.m.