Georgia Congressman David Scott Dies at 80 While Seeking Re-election
U.S. Representative David Scott, a Georgia Democrat who made history as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, has passed away at the age of 80. The congressman was actively pursuing his 13th term in Congress at the time of his death, despite facing internal party challenges and declining health in recent years.
Announcement During Congressional Black Caucus Luncheon
The announcement of Scott's death occurred during the Congressional Black Caucus' weekly luncheon on Capitol Hill. Chair Rep. Yvette Clarke informed lawmakers of the passing, with many present reportedly shocked and saddened by the news. Some colleagues had served alongside Scott for decades, making the announcement particularly poignant.
Political Impact and Legacy
Scott's passing marginally expands the Republican Party's slim House majority as the current election year progresses. The congressman had not been particularly active on the campaign trail in 2026 but had consistently dismissed calls for his retirement. In 2024, he stated, "Thank God I'm in good health, moving and doing the people's work."
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed profound sadness, telling reporters on Wednesday, "The news of Congressman Scott's passing is deeply sad." Jeffries lauded Scott as 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 added, "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."
Background and Career Highlights
Born David Albert Scott on June 27, 1945, in rural Aynor, South Carolina, during the Jim Crow era, Scott was a vocal proponent for federal support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). He graduated from Florida A&M University and held an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Before his election to Congress in 2002, Scott served as a seasoned state lawmaker in Georgia.
Throughout his career, Scott was a prominent advocate for Democrats on agricultural policy and consumer food aid. He was also a notable Black member of the moderate Blue Dog caucus. However, his later years in office were marked by health issues, leading to criticism and primary challenges in both 2024 and at the time of his death.
Democrats on Capitol Hill offered numerous tributes to the long-serving lawmaker, highlighting his dedication to his constituents and his groundbreaking achievements in agricultural policy leadership.
