By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | May 2, 2026
State leaders, national figures, and community members gathered beneath the gold dome of the Georgia State Capitol on May 1 to honor the life and legacy of longtime Congressman David Scott, a pioneering lawmaker whose decades of service reshaped Georgia politics and national agricultural policy.
The ceremony, held in the Capitol Rotunda, featured remarks from Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and U.S. Representative Maxine Waters, both of whom reflected on Scott’s rise from humble beginnings to the heights of congressional leadership.
Dickens emphasized that Scott’s early life shaped his approach to public service. He noted that Scott’s connection to everyday people remained central throughout his career, from his time in the Georgia General Assembly to his tenure in Congress.
Scott, who represented Georgia’s 13th Congressional District since 2003, died on April 22, 2026, at the age of 80. His passing marked the loss of one of Georgia’s most enduring political figures and created a vacancy in the closely divided U.S. House of Representatives. A special election will be scheduled under Georgia law to fill the remainder of his term.
Historic Firsts and Legislative Impact
Scott made history as the first African American to chair the House Agriculture Committee, serving from 2021 to 2023. His leadership helped direct federal attention and funding toward farmers, rural communities, and historically Black land-grant institutions.
Among his notable achievements was securing $80 million in the 2018 Farm Bill for scholarships at 19 historically Black colleges and universities with agricultural programs. He also played key roles in housing assistance programs, veterans’ benefits, and financial protections for homeowners.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described Scott as a “trailblazer” who served his district with dedication and integrity, emphasizing his commitment to delivering results for Georgia families.
From Rural Roots to National Leadership
Born in 1945 in Aynor, South Carolina during the Jim Crow era, Scott’s early life was marked by frequent moves and hard work. He later graduated from Florida A&M University and earned an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.
After launching an advertising business in Atlanta, Scott entered politics, first working on Andrew Young’s congressional campaign before winning election to the Georgia House in 1974 and the Georgia Senate in 1982.
His rise to Congress in 2002 was supported by prominent figures, including civil rights leader Andrew Young and baseball legend Hank Aaron, reflecting the broad coalition behind his political ascent.
A Career of Service and Advocacy
Throughout his career, Scott focused heavily on constituent services, hosting job fairs that connected thousands to employment and health events that expanded access to screenings and care. He also secured hundreds of millions in federal funding for transportation and community development projects across metro Atlanta.
On foreign policy, Scott supported NATO alliances and international cooperation, while domestically he advocated for food access, education funding, and economic stability for working families.
News of his passing was first shared during a Congressional Black Caucus meeting by Chair Yvette Clarke. Flags at the White House were lowered to half-staff in his honor.
A Legacy That Endures
Scott’s death comes amid broader national conversations about aging leadership in Congress, as he was among several lawmakers over 80 still serving. Despite facing calls to step aside in recent years, he remained committed to his role, often stating that he was focused on “doing the people’s work.”
He is survived by his wife, Alfredia Scott, their two daughters, and grandchildren.
As Georgia prepares for a special election and reflects on his decades of service, Scott’s legacy remains defined by his historic leadership, policy achievements, and unwavering connection to the communities he served.
| Era | Position | Key Focus |
| 1975–1982 | Georgia State Representative | Gun safety and “Peachcare” children’s health. |
| 1983–2002 | Georgia State Senator | Environmental protection and school prayer. |
| 2003–2026 | U.S. Representative | Agriculture, HBCUs, and Veteran affairs. |
| 2021–2023 | Chairman, House Ag Committee | First African American to hold the post. |
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