Following former President Obama's remarks about democracy's perceived low priority among voters, Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) offered his perspective on CNN. Clyburn drew parallels to the 1876 election and the subsequent Jim Crow era, suggesting a potential resurgence of voter suppression. He expressed concern that the 2024 election could signal a similar regression in democratic principles.

Clyburn's comments came in response to Obama's address at the Obama Foundation’s Democracy Forum in Chicago, where the former president discussed the challenges of unity in a divided nation. Obama noted that discussions about bridging divides felt somewhat abstract given the apparent voter apathy towards democratic ideals.

Former President Barack Obama moderates a conversation at the Obama Foundation's 2024 Democracy Forum. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

While acknowledging the validity of Obama's observations, Clyburn questioned whether this was a desirable state for the nation. He emphasized the 95-year gap between the eighth and ninth African American representatives from South Carolina, attributing this disparity to the suppression of democracy during the Jim Crow era.

Rep. James Clyburn discusses concerns about American democracy.

Obama's remarks, delivered in his first public appearance after the 2024 election, highlighted the perceived disconnect between calls for unity and the electorate's apparent prioritization of other concerns. He observed that the election results seemed to indicate a diminished focus on democratic principles.

Former President Obama and President-elect Trump (AP Images)

In the aftermath of Trump's victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, Democrats have been analyzing the election outcome. Several party members have suggested that the party's focus on attacking Trump, while neglecting working-class voters and economic anxieties, contributed to their loss.