David Scott, a longtime Georgia Democrat serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, has died at the age of 80 while seeking reelection to what would have been his 13th term in Congress.

Scott represented a metropolitan district in the Atlanta area and was a senior member of the Democratic caucus, serving most recently as the ranking member on the House Agriculture Committee. He previously served as the committee’s first Black chairman and was a leading voice on agricultural policy, including federal farm aid programs and food assistance initiatives.

Throughout his career, Scott was also associated with the party’s moderate Blue Dog Coalition and was considered one of the more centrist Democrats on fiscal and agricultural issues. His tenure in Congress spanned more than two decades.

In recent years, Scott faced increased scrutiny over his health and political future, including a primary challenge in 2024 and continued questions within his party about his ability to serve another full term. Despite that, he rejected calls to step aside and remained active in office, stating in 2024, “Thank God I’m in good health, moving, and doing the people’s work.”

House Democratic leadership reacted to his death with public statements honoring his long service. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described Scott as a “trailblazer,” noting his rise from modest beginnings to becoming the first African American to chair the House Agriculture Committee and praising his commitment to his district and constituents.

Scott’s death narrows the Democratic presence in the House at a time when the chamber’s balance of power remains closely divided heading into a competitive election cycle.