POLITICS

David Scott, Georgia Congressman, Dies at Age Eighty

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Atlanta — U.S. Rep. David Scott, 80, a Democrat who represented parts of metro Atlanta since 2003, died Wednesday. Scott had recently filed paperwork to seek a 13th term for the 13th Congressional District. He served in the Georgia legislature beginning in 1974 and was noted for chairing the House Agriculture Committee from 2021 to 2023. The death prompted tributes this week from Governor Brian Kemp, Senator Jon Ossoff, and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who cited his long service and advocacy for agriculture and consumer finance. With Scott having filed for re-election and facing primary challengers, his passing creates an immediate vacancy and shifts the timing and dynamics of the district's upcoming electoral contests.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

1974: Elected to the Georgia State House.
1982: Elected to the Georgia State Senate.
2002/2003: Elected to U.S. House representing Georgia's 13th District; service began in 2003.
2021–2023: Chaired the House Agriculture Committee, first Black lawmaker to do so.
This week: Filed for a 13th-term bid and died Wednesday, creating a vacancy.

Why This Matters to You

Congressman Scott's death leaves a vacancy in Georgia's 13th District. This changes the upcoming electoral contests. If you live in this district, be ready for a special election. Stay informed about the new candidates.

The Bottom Line

Scott's legacy in agriculture and consumer finance is notable. His passing is a loss for Georgia and the nation. If you admired his work, consider learning more about these issues. Worth forwarding if you know someone in Georgia's 13th District.