Pee Dee News

Jim Clyburn, a long-serving member of the U.S. Congress representing South Carolina’s 6th district, has taken to social media to express concerns over recent decisions by former President Donald Trump regarding significant cuts in federal staffing and management changes in critical agencies. These tweets reflect his apprehensions about potential impacts on public safety and infrastructure.

On February 15, 2025, Clyburn tweeted about an anticipated move by Trump to reduce the Department of Housing and Urban Development staff by half. He highlighted that this would result in "about 4800 people will lose their jobs," potentially leading to "less affordable housing and loss of income for landlords" as well as a "slow recovery and response." "In the midst of a housing crisis, Trump is expected to fire HALF the Department of Housing and Urban Development staff."

On February 17, 2025, he expressed further concern regarding Trump's decision to dismiss Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) workers amid what he described as one of the deadliest months in commercial aviation history. Clyburn argued that instead of reducing air traffic safety jobs, there should be an increase in air traffic control personnel. He stated: "After one of the most deadly months in commercial aviation, Trump has fired FAA workers who keep us safe."

Later that day, Clyburn issued another tweet warning against Trump's intention to transfer control over FAA operations to Elon Musk's SpaceX. He emphasized concerns over taxpayer-funded air traffic facilities potentially being managed by SpaceX without adequate oversight from the flying public or U.S. military authorities: "This is dangerous. Trump wants to hand over FAA to Musk and SpaceX."