Rep. David Scott Dies at Age of 80

Rep. David Scott, a Democratic lawmaker who represented Georgia's 13th District for over two decades, has died at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by his office and colleagues on Wednesday.

The cause of Scott's death has not been disclosed. He was known for his advocacy on behalf of farmers, historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), and community programs. According to UPI, Scott often hosted job fairs and health events in his district, which helped him maintain strong voter support.

Scott began his political career in 1974 with a successful run for the Georgia House of Representatives. He served there until he was elected to the state Senate in 1982. Scott was eventually elected to the newly created District 13, which includes DeKalb and Gwinnett counties, in 2003.

In the House, Scott was a member of several caucuses, including the Congressional Black Caucus and the New Democrat Coalition. He served as chair of the House Agriculture Committee for the first two years of former President Joe Biden's term, becoming the first African-American lawmaker to do so. According to The Guardian, Scott had been facing health issues in recent years but remained popular in his district.

Rep. Virginia Foxx, R-N.C., presided over the House on Wednesday afternoon and formally announced Scott's death to the chamber. 'The House will be in order,' Foxx said. 'The chair announces to the House that, in light of the passing of the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. David Scott, the whole number of the house is 430.'

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters on Capitol Hill that the 'news of Congressman Scott’s passing is deeply sad.' 'David Scott was a trailblazer who served district that he represented admirably, rose up from humble beginnings to become the first African American ever to chair the House Ag Committee,' Jeffries said. 'He cared about the people that he represented. He was fiercely committed to getting things done for the people of the great state of Georgia, and he’ll be deeply missed.'

Scott faced criticism in recent years due to declining health and primary challenges. Despite this, he dismissed pressure to retire, stating in 2024, 'Thank God I’m in good health, moving and doing the people’s work.' His wife and campaign advisor Alfredia Scott was even more direct: 'When the congressman decides to leave, he won’t be pushed out,' she said in 2024. 'He will bow out.'

Scott's death slightly widens Republicans’ narrow House majority going into the midterm election year. The GOP began the current Congress with a 220-215 advantage, but the margin has fluctuated. Scott is the fourth House Democrat to die in office during this Congress.