Rep. David Scott Dies At 80 After Decades In Congress

Veteran Congressman David Scott has died unexpectedly at the age of 80, his office confirmed Wednesday, closing the chapter on a political career that spanned more than two decades in Washington.

Scott, a Democrat representing a reliably blue district in the Atlanta area since 2003, had been seeking a 13th term in office. No cause of death was immediately released.

In recent years, questions had emerged within his own party about his health and ability to continue serving in leadership roles. Those concerns came to a head when House Democrats voted to remove him as the top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee following repeated absences tied to health issues.

His passing now has immediate political implications. With Scott’s seat vacant, the balance in the U.S. House shifts slightly, leaving Republicans with 217 seats and Democrats with 212, alongside one independent.

Born in South Carolina and raised in multiple states, Scott eventually settled in Georgia after earning an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania. Before entering public service, he built a successful business career, founding an advertising firm in Atlanta.

Scott’s political career began in 1974 in the Georgia state legislature, eventually leading to his election to Congress, where he became a prominent voice on agriculture and financial policy.

House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark praised Scott as “a stalwart champion for working families and farmers,” highlighting his efforts to strengthen agricultural communities and expand economic opportunity.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also expressed condolences, noting Scott “spent the majority of his life in service to others.”

Throughout his tenure, Scott played a role in shaping major farm legislation and pushed for disaster relief programs to support American farmers. He also backed funding for land-grant institutions, including the University of Georgia, and supported scholarship initiatives benefiting historically Black colleges and universities.

After stepping down from his leadership role on the Agriculture Committee, Scott was succeeded by Angie Craig, who commended his advocacy for “Georgia’s farmers, hungry veterans and young people.”

Under Georgia law, Brian Kemp must now call a special election within 10 days to fill the vacant seat, with the vote required to take place at least 30 days later.

Scott’s death marks the fifth sitting member of the House to pass away during this Congress, underscoring the fragile margins in an already closely divided chamber.

He is survived by his wife, Alfredia, two children, and several grandchildren.