Archive · 6 Oct 2026
Jim Clyburn Says He Recently Learned About AI
Jim Clyburn is a U.S. lawmaker from South Carolina.
On a podcast, he said he had only recently learned about artificial intelligence.
The host asked him about ChatGPT and Claude, two AI tools.
Clyburn said he does not know everything and relies on staff who know about different subjects.
A video of the conversation spread online.
Some people criticized him for not knowing more about AI.
Clyburn has announced that he is running for another term in Congress.
Rep. Jim Clyburn said he had not heard about artificial intelligence until recently.
The South Carolina Democrat made the comment on the America, Actually podcast.
Host Astead Herndon asked whether Clyburn uses ChatGPT or Claude.
Clyburn said he relies on staff with relevant knowledge and does not try to learn everything himself.
The clip prompted online criticism, including comments about lawmakers’ familiarity with AI.
- Who
- Rep. Jim Clyburn and podcast host Astead Herndon.
- What
- Clyburn said he had only recently learned about artificial intelligence and was asked whether he uses ChatGPT or Claude.
- When
- The podcast conversation took place a few weeks before the article was published; no exact date is given.
- Where
- On the America, Actually podcast.
- Why
- Herndon asked about Clyburn's familiarity with AI and how he legislates despite being unfamiliar with the technology.
Criticism of Clyburn’s AI Awareness
Clyburn’s Reliance on Staff
Knowledge of AI
Criticism of Clyburn’s AI Awareness
Some online commenters criticized Clyburn for being unfamiliar with AI, arguing that lawmakers should understand the technology.
Clyburn’s Reliance on Staff
Clyburn said he does not try to know everything and instead surrounds himself with people who have expertise.
- Politician
- Rep. Jim Clyburn, a Democrat from South Carolina
- Age
- 86, according to the article
- Podcast
- America, Actually
- Host
- Astead Herndon
- AI tools mentioned
- ChatGPT and Claude
- Next election bid
- Clyburn has announced he is running for an 18th term