Longtime Democrat David Scott, aged 80, passed away on Tuesday (April 21) night. Scott served as a representative from Georgia for 23 years and was the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee.
Scott voted for the last time on Tuesday afternoon, hours before his passing.
Scott was first elected to Congress in 2002 and became a prominent figure when he rose to chair the House Agriculture Committee in 2021. He was known for his dedication to Georgia’s farmers, veterans, and young people. Scott’s legacy includes his work on farm subsidies, food stamps, and school lunch programs.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called Scott “a trailblazer” and praised his commitment to his constituents.
Despite his accomplishments, Scott faced health challenges in recent years. Concerns about his mental acuity and physical condition led to his replacement by Angie Craig as the top Democrat on the Agriculture Committee in 2024.
Scott’s death leaves a vacancy in Georgia’s 13th Congressional District. Under Georgia law, the governor must declare a special election within 10 days, with the election held at least 30 days later. Scott’s passing also shifts the House’s party breakdown to 217 Republicans, 212 Democrats, and one independent.
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