US Rep. David Scott, a longtime Georgia Democrat and former chair of the House Agriculture Committee, has died at the age of 80, according to fellow lawmakers.
Scott’s death was disclosed during a committee hearing on Wednesday, April 22, by US Rep. Gregory Meeks of New York. A senior House Democrat also confirmed his passing, according to multiple reports.
Scott served in Congress for more than two decades, representing an Atlanta-area district. Over his career, he became a prominent figure in agricultural policy and national politics.
In 2020, Scott made history as the first Black lawmaker to serve as chair of the House Agriculture Committee, a powerful panel that oversees farming, food policy, and rural development.
Before his time in Congress, Scott began his political career in Georgia, first elected to the state Assembly in 1974. His tenure in public office spanned more than 50 years.
Scott sought reelection in 2024, even as questions were raised about his health and ability to lead negotiations on a major farm bill.
Details surrounding his death were not immediately released.
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