Title: Georgia Congressman David Scott Dies at 80 After 12 Terms in Office

Georgia Democratic Congressman David Scott died on Tuesday at the age of 80, according to multiple news outlets and confirmation from his office.

Scott, who represented Georgia’s 13th Congressional District, was seeking his 13th term in the U.S. House of Representatives. His passing marks the fifth sitting member of the 119th Congress to die in office.

The announcement came from Scott’s office, which confirmed his death but did not immediately disclose the cause. Local Georgia media, including WABE and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reported the news as breaking developments on Tuesday afternoon.

Scott first entered Congress in 2003, defeating incumbent Cynthia McKinney in a Democratic primary runoff. Over two decades, he became a senior figure in the House Agriculture Committee, where he served as chairman during the 117th Congress. He was known for advocating for rural broadband access, agricultural subsidies, and healthcare expansion in underserved communities.

His district, which includes parts of Atlanta’s southern suburbs and rural areas to the south, has consistently reelected him by wide margins. In his most recent campaign, Scott faced no Republican challenger in the general election after winning the Democratic primary unopposed.

Following his death, the seat will remain vacant until a special election is called, though no date has been set. Under Georgia state law, the governor has the authority to schedule such an election, which must occur within a specific timeframe after the vacancy occurs.

House Democratic leaders issued statements expressing condolences, noting Scott’s long service and commitment to his constituents. Republican leaders also acknowledged his passing, citing his work on bipartisan agricultural initiatives.

Scott is survived by his wife, Mary, and their two children. Funeral arrangements have not been made public.

The House will proceed with its legislative agenda, though the absence of Scott reduces the Democratic majority by one vote until the vacancy is filled.