U.S. Rep. David Scott, who represented Georgia's 13th Congressional District for more than two decades, died Wednesday at 80. His office confirmed the death but called it "unexpected" and said additional details would be released in the coming days.
Scott had been running for a 13th term and was headed toward the May 19 primaries at the time of his death. He had not been actively campaigning in recent months, but had consistently dismissed any calls to retire.
"To the public, he was a devoted leader who spent more than 50 years serving his community, the state of Georgia, and the American people," his office said in a statement. "He will be remembered not only for his leadership but for his kindness, compassion, and enduring impact on those around him."
Born in rural South Carolina, Scott moved frequently as a child before settling in Atlanta, where he built an advertising business. His political career began as a staffer on Andrew Young's 1972 congressional campaign. He won a seat in the Georgia House of Representatives two years later, then moved to the state Senate in 1982. He was first elected to the newly created 13th District, which covers parts of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties, in 2003.
In Washington, Scott served on several caucuses, including the Congressional Black Caucus and the New Democrat Coalition. He chaired the House Agriculture Committee during the first two years of President Joe Biden's administration, becoming the first African American lawmaker to lead that panel. After Republicans took control of the House in 2023, he became its ranking member.
His death shifts the balance of power in the House slightly. The chamber now stands at 217 Republicans, 212 Democrats, and one Independent, with five seats vacant.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens praised Scott as a "tireless advocate" who "fought for Georgia farmers, advocated for our veterans and ensured his constituents were supported at the street level with job and health fairs, serving tens of thousands of Georgians over the years."
No cause of death has been released.
