The oath was administered by U.S. District Judge Matthew Perry at the courthouse that bears his name.  Clyburn says, "As a civil rights pioneer and one of South Carolina's foremost jurists, Judge Perry has exemplified thoughtfulness, dedication and perseverance.  He is an inspiration to all Americans, and I aim to follow his commitment to public service in my new role as Commissioner of the FCC."  Clyburn is the daughter of civil rights activists and House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC).

Broadcasters hope her background as a former newspaper publisher will give her better understanding of the challenges faced by the media today.   During her confirmation hearings, Clyburn said she is “very weary” about consolidation’s impact.   “The landscape is changing, no one is questioning that,” Clyburn said. “But we must assess the impact of these challenges and changes.”  Asked whether she’d support additional broadcaster regulations, Clyburn responded, “It would depend.”  She says if market forces are working and the public is happy, the FCC should step back.