Georgia Democrat David Scott, 80, dies after casting final House vote

April 22, 2026

Congressman David Scott, an 80-year-old Democrat who served Georgia's 13th District for over twenty years, has passed away just one day after casting his last congressional vote. Scott made history as the first Black person to lead the House Agriculture Committee and had planned to seek another term despite concerns about his deteriorating health. His passing marks the fifth congressional death in the past year and gives Republicans a slight numerical edge in the closely divided House of Representatives.

Who is affected

David Scott (deceased congressman)
Residents of Georgia's 13th District
Democratic Party (loses a House seat temporarily)
Republican Party (gains temporary numerical advantage)
House Democrats (minority caucus loses a member)
Georgia Governor (responsible for declaring special election)

What action is being taken

Republicans are campaigning to defend their House majority ahead of November's midterm elections
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is paying tribute to Scott

Why it matters

This death is significant because it shifts the balance of power in an already narrowly divided House of Representatives, giving Republicans a temporary advantage with 217 seats versus 212 Democrats. Scott's passing also represents the loss of a trailblazing figure who broke racial barriers by becoming the first African American to chair the House Agriculture Committee, and it marks the fifth congressional death in just over a year, highlighting unusual turnover in Congress.

What's next

Georgia's governor must declare a special election within 10 days of the seat vacancy
The special election must be held at least 30 days after the governor's declaration

Read full article from source: BBC