ATLANTA — Georgia Democratic Congressman David Scott has passed away at the age of 80 while in the midst of campaigning for what would have been his 13th term in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The veteran lawmaker held the position of ranking Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee and previously made history as the committee’s first African American chairman, even though his district encompassed the Atlanta metropolitan area rather than rural farmland. Scott became a key Democratic voice on agricultural assistance programs and consumer food aid initiatives, while also serving as a notable member of the moderate Blue Dog Coalition.
In recent years, the congressman encountered criticism and questions about his ability to serve effectively due to health issues, leading to primary election challenges in 2024 and another brewing contest at the time of his passing.
Congressional Democratic leaders offered tributes to Scott following news of his death.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed his sorrow to reporters, saying, “The news of Congressman Scott’s passing is deeply sad.”
Jeffries continued his remarks by highlighting Scott’s achievements: “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. 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.”
The representative had maintained a limited presence during the 2026 campaign season but had rejected calls for his retirement from office.
In 2024, Scott had responded to retirement pressure by stating, “Thank God I’m in good health, moving and doing the people’s work.”
Scott’s passing creates a slightly larger Republican advantage in the closely divided House of Representatives as the midterm election season intensifies.
