Just select the whole clipping mask (Using the regular selection tool) and go to

Object → Expand

This will expand the whole clipping mask.

You can also consider creating a (whole) shape of SC (same size etc.) and use that to make the actual clipping mask (so that it's separate and you can leave the other path open)

I would consider creating a (whole) shape of the state (SC) which would be thesame size etc. (you're just adding to the open area) and use that to make the actual clipping mask (so that it's separate and you can leave the other path open)

Don't use the Direct Selection Tool to select the mask, use the (regular) Selection Tool (A)

Then just go to Object → Expand and tick the box for stroke. (Or outline however you were doing it)

You can also consider creating a (whole) shape of SC (same size etc.) and use that to make the actual clipping mask (so that it's separate and you can leave the other path open)

Just select the whole clipping mask (Using the regular selection tool) and go to

Object → Expand

This will expand the whole clipping mask.

You can also consider creating a (whole) shape of SC (same size etc.) and use that to make the actual clipping mask (so that it's separate and you can leave the other path open)