Georgia Congressman David Scott Dies at 80 After Voting

Congressman David Scott of Georgia passed away at 80 years old on April 23, 2026. He is the fifth member of Congress to die in office since last year, highlighting a trend of lawmakers leaving service.
By Newsroom | Politics, United States |

A Vote Cast, A Career Concluded

David Scott, the Georgia Democrat who for over two decades represented the state's 13th Congressional District, has died at 80 years old. His passing was confirmed on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, a day after he had cast a vote on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.

The timing of his death, so soon after his final legislative act, underscores the abrupt end to a long public service career. Scott, who was seeking a 13th term in Congress, had been a fixture in Washington, D.C. His absence further shrinks the Democratic voting numbers in the House, a chamber already characterized by razor-thin margins.

Shifting Numbers, Echoes of Service

The congressman's death alters the current House arithmetic: 217 Republicans, 212 Democrats, and one independent who aligns with the Republican caucus. This change follows a recent trend of lawmakers departing or passing while in office. Scott is noted as the fifth member of Congress to die while serving since last year.

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A Career's Trajectory

Before his extensive tenure in Washington, Scott was a member of the Georgia state legislature for nearly three decades. He also made history as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, later serving as its ranking member. His political journey began in South Carolina, according to former House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn.

Reports suggest that Scott, despite questions regarding his declining health, had chosen to run for a 13th term in the upcoming primary election. His wife and campaign adviser, Alfredia Scott, acknowledged his persistent pursuit of office. Scott was also an advocate for historically Black schools. It's noted that he served in Congress while residing outside his district, a consequence of redrawn electoral maps.

Leaders like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged his death, with Jeffries offering tribute. Lawmakers from across the aisle have spoken of Scott's lengthy service and expressed sorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Congressman David Scott and when did he die?
Congressman David Scott, who represented Georgia's 13th Congressional District, died at the age of 80 on Wednesday, April 23, 2026. He had recently cast a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Q: How does David Scott's death affect the U.S. House of Representatives?
Congressman Scott's death reduces the number of Democrats in the House, further tightening the already slim majority held by Republicans. The current House count is 217 Republicans, 212 Democrats, and one independent.
Q: What was David Scott's career before Congress?
Before serving in the U.S. House for over two decades, David Scott was a member of the Georgia state legislature for nearly 30 years. He also notably served as the first Black chairman of the House Agriculture Committee.
Q: Was David Scott seeking re-election?
Yes, despite reports of declining health, David Scott had chosen to run for his 13th term in the upcoming primary election. His wife confirmed his continued dedication to serving in office.
Q: How many members of Congress have died in office recently?
David Scott is the fifth member of Congress to pass away while serving since last year. This marks a continuing trend of lawmakers departing or dying during their terms.