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Rep. David Scott, a longtime Democrat from Georgia who made history as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, has died, his office said Wednesday. He was 80.
Scott, who represented a district near Atlanta since 2002, had continued serving in Congress and voted on the House floor as recently as Tuesday, according to official records.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called Scott a “trailblazer” and praised his decades of public service.
“He cared about the people that he represented,” Jeffries said. “He was fiercely committed to getting things done for the people of the great state of Georgia, and he’ll be deeply missed.”
Scott was first elected to Congress in 2002 and went on to serve more than two decades in the House. He rose to national prominence as chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, becoming the first African American to hold the position.
In that role, he oversaw major federal programs tied to agriculture, nutrition and rural development, including food assistance initiatives and farm subsidies that affect millions of Americans.
He was replaced as the committee’s top Democrat in 2024 by Rep. Angie Craig as party leaders moved to elevate a younger generation.
Scott was widely recognized for his advocacy on behalf of farmers, veterans and underserved communities. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens described him as a “tireless advocate” who worked to support constituents through job fairs, health initiatives and economic programs.
Former House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn recalled Scott’s humble beginnings on a South Carolina tobacco farm and said he “never forgot” the opportunities that helped shape his career.
Scott also maintained close ties to Atlanta’s civic and cultural life. He was the brother-in-law of baseball legend Hank Aaron, and his grandson, Kimani Vidal, plays professional football.
In recent years, Scott faced questions about his health and campaign viability. Reports in 2022 suggested he had slowed in his public appearances, and he was outraised by several primary challengers earlier this year as he sought reelection to a 13th term.
Despite those concerns, he remained active in Congress until his death.
Scott’s passing comes during a period of notable turnover in Congress, which remains one of the oldest in U.S. history. Several lawmakers have died or left office in recent years, contributing to shifting party dynamics and leadership changes.
His death leaves the House with a narrow Republican majority, underscoring the political significance of vacancies in closely divided chambers.
Under Georgia law, Gov. Brian Kemp must call a special election within 10 days to fill the vacancy, with voting to take place at least 30 days later.
Scott’s legacy, colleagues say, will be defined by his historic leadership and decades-long commitment to public service.
