U.S. Rep. David Scott, First Black Chairman of House Agriculture Committee, Dies at 80
- David Scott, a Georgia Democrat seeking his 13th term in Congress, has died at the age of 80.
- Scott, who served as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, was a long-serving member of Congress representing Georgia’s 13th District.
- Scott was first elected to Congress in 2002 and had been seeking re-election for another term despite facing internal party challenges.
U.S. Rep. David Scott, a Georgia Democrat seeking his 13th term in Congress, has died at the age of 80.
Scott, who served as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, was a long-serving member of Congress representing Georgia’s 13th District. His office confirmed his passing on April 22, 2026.
Scott was first elected to Congress in 2002 and had been seeking re-election for another term despite facing internal party challenges. His tenure included leadership roles on key agricultural and rural policy issues.
As chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, Scott oversaw legislation related to farming, nutrition, and rural development. He was known for advocating for underserved farmers and promoting equity in federal agricultural programs.
Scott’s career in public service began in the Georgia State Senate, where he served before his election to the U.S. House. He was widely recognized for his work on economic development and infrastructure in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Tributes have begun to emerge from colleagues across the political spectrum, with many highlighting his dedication to public service and his historic role in congressional leadership.