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The political landscape of Georgia dimmed with the news that longtime congressman David Scott has died at the age of 80, closing a chapter on a career that spanned decades and shaped policy from local communities to the halls of Congress.

The announcement of David Scott dies at 80 marks the end of more than 23 years of service in the U.S. House of Representatives, where he built a reputation as a steadfast advocate for farmers, veterans, healthcare access and education.

From Humble Beginnings to National Influence

Born June 27, 1945, in Aynor, South Carolina, to Mamie Polite Scott and Albert James Scott, his early life unfolded like a journey across the American map — from Scranton, Pennsylvania, where he lived with his grandparents as a child, to a South Carolina farm with his maternal grandmother, and later to Scarsdale, New York, where his parents worked for a wealthy household.

Those formative years, he once reflected in the book Politics in America, taught him resilience and how to connect across differences.

As a teenager in Daytona Beach, Florida, Scott worked alongside his father in a garbage-collection business before graduating high school in 1963. His academic path led him to Florida A&M University, where he earned a degree in English and speech in 1967.

He later received an MBA with honors from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1969 — the same year he married Alfredia Aaron, sister of baseball legend Hank Aaron.

Building a Career in Business and Public Service

After settling in Atlanta, Scott launched his advertising firm, Dayn-Mark, in the early 1970s. He also explored the arts, creating and performing in “Langston!,” a Georgia PBS production celebrating poet Langston Hughes.

His path soon intersected with Jimmy Carter, then governor of Georgia, for whom Scott worked as a consultant on revenue policy — an experience he later described as pivotal.

That opportunity opened doors to political organizing, including work on Andrew Young’s 1972 congressional campaign.

Legislative Impact Across Georgia

Scott’s elected career began in the Georgia House of Representatives in 1974, where he served until 1982. During that time, he helped pass laws strengthening gun safety, including measures making it a felony to knowingly provide firearms to minors and holding parents accountable for safe storage.

He also played a role in developing PeachCare, expanding health coverage for children across the state.

In 1983, Scott transitioned to the Georgia Senate, representing the 36th district for nearly two decades. His legislative work included laws allowing women undergoing breast cancer surgery greater control over treatment decisions, restricting landfill placement in residential areas, and introducing sex education and AIDS prevention programs in public schools.

Rise to Congress and National Leadership

In 2002, Scott was elected to represent Georgia’s 13th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, covering counties including Henry, Clayton, DeKalb, Rockdale, Newton and Gwinnett.

Over 12 consecutive terms, he became a leading voice for education, healthcare reform and military families. He authored legislation enabling veterans and their children to qualify for in-state tuition and supported programs to ease student debt for mental health professionals working with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

A strong advocate for agriculture, Scott secured $80 million in the 2018 Farm Bill for historically Black land-grant institutions.

In 2021, he made history as the first African American to chair the House Agriculture Committee — a role he described as the culmination of a lifelong connection to farming.

A Career Rooted in Service

Scott also served as a senior member of the Financial Services Committee and contributed to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, extending his influence beyond U.S. borders.

He is survived by his wife Alfredia, two daughters and two grandchildren.

Leaders Across Georgia Pay Tribute

News of David Scott dies at 80 prompted an outpouring of tributes from leaders across the state.

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff called Scott’s service transformative, saying, “The State of Georgia is a better place thanks to the service of Congressman Scott.”

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp praised his enduring influence, particularly in agriculture, noting that his impact “will be felt for years.”

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens described Scott as “a tireless advocate,” highlighting decades of outreach through job fairs, health initiatives and community programs that reached tens of thousands.

End of an Era

Like a steady hand guiding a plow through uncertain seasons, Scott’s career carved a path defined by persistence and public service. His legacy — woven through legislation, advocacy and community impact — leaves behind more than memory; it leaves a blueprint for those who follow.