Representative David Scott, the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, died Wednesday at age 80 while campaigning for his 13th term representing Georgia’s district near Atlanta. His death shifts the House balance to 217 Republicans, 212 Democrats, and one independent, triggering a special election under state law.

Trailblazer Career Ends Abruptly

Scott made history during his two-decade congressional career, rising from humble beginnings on a South Carolina tobacco farm to lead the powerful Agriculture Committee. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries confirmed Scott’s passing after a Congressional Black Caucus meeting, calling him “a trailblazer who served the district that he represented admirably.” Scott was first elected to Congress in 2002 and had been outraised by four primary opponents in the first quarter fundraising cycle.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens praised Scott as “a tireless advocate” who fought for Georgia farmers, veterans, and constituents through job and health fairs serving tens of thousands over the years. Former House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn noted Scott’s South Carolina roots, explaining that domestic workers who employed his parents helped fund his Wharton Business School education. “He never forgot that,” Clyburn recalled.

Agriculture Leadership Impact

As Agriculture Committee chairman, Scott controlled billions in farm subsidies, food stamps, and school lunches. The committee oversees critical programs including SNAP benefits, WIC, housing initiatives, and energy programs affecting rural America. Democrats replaced Scott as the committee’s top Democrat with Representative Angie Craig of Minnesota in 2024, part of an effort to bring younger leadership to key positions.

Special Election Looms

Georgia law requires Governor Brian Kemp to declare a special election within 10 days of the vacancy, with the election occurring at least 30 days after that declaration. Scott’s death continues a troubling pattern in the third-oldest Congress in American history. Representatives Sylvester Turner, Raul Grijalva, and Gerry Connolly died last year, while Representative Doug LaMalfa passed earlier this year. More than a dozen House lawmakers age 80 and older were seeking re-election as of January. Scott leaves behind a notable family legacy, including brother-in-law baseball legend Hank Aaron and grandson NFL running back Kimani Vidal.