Georgia Rep. David Scott Dies at 80 After 50 Years in Congress

Democratic Representative David Scott of Georgia has died at the age of 80, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Scott, a Democrat, had served in politics for 50 years and was preparing to run for a 13th term in Georgia’s 13th congressional district in 2024. His decision to seek reelection came despite growing concerns about his mental and physical state.

Opponent’s Challenge and Public Records Request

One of Scott’s primary opponents, Georgia State Representative Dr. Jasmine Clark, revealed in November 2023 that Scott had not voted in the past six consecutive elections, including the 2024 presidential election. Clark obtained this information through a public records request.

“Our right to vote is sacred and constantly under attack. I cannot fathom any elected official asking his constituents for their votes every two years without even bothering to go vote himself.”

Clark also alleged that Scott was not a resident of the district he represented.

Signs of Decline and Public Incidents

Concerns about Scott’s fitness for office escalated in February 2023, when he delivered a long, incoherent speech on the House floor about tariffs before his microphone was cut off.

In December 2024, shortly after his reelection, Scott was recorded cursing at a photographer who attempted to take his picture while he was being pushed in a wheelchair outside the Capitol.

Capitol Hill Concerns and Colleague Reactions

Scott’s mental and physical decline was widely known among colleagues, staff, and lobbyists on Capitol Hill. Many reported that the then-ranking member of the House Agriculture Committee struggled with detailed conversations and often relied on prepared scripts.

Politico reported in February 2024 that Scott’s decision to run again in 2024 shocked those who worked closely with him.

Legacy and Congressional Losses Under Trump

Scott’s death marks the fourth Democratic congressional loss since the beginning of former President Donald Trump’s term. He joins Representatives Gerry Connolly, Sylvester Turner, and Raúl Grijalva, all of whom were over 70 and represented safe Democratic districts.