For Immediate Release
April 22, 2026
Media Contact
Jessica Josey
Digital Media Manager
202.680.2243
media@cbcfinc.org
Nicole Austin-Hillery, President and CEO of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, issued the following statement on the passing of Representative David Scott (GA-13), who died at age 80.
“We have lost a dedicated public servant with the passing of Congressman David Scott. Throughout his decades of work, he remained a true champion, protecting the agricultural interests of Georgia and our entire nation.
Representative Scott blazed a historic path as the first Black leader to chair the House Agriculture Committee. His time in Congress, spanning nearly thirteen terms, included an unyielding focus on the well-being of his constituents in the bordering Atlanta area and the integrity of our food systems. He understood the intersection of balancing policy with the everyday needs of families in the community he served as he also worked to ensure access to jobs, housing, healthcare, and improvements to local infrastructure. He was also a staunch supporter of our nation’s veterans.
David Scott approached governing with a pragmatic spirit. His career demonstrated a valuable ability to bridge divides, ensuring the priorities of his home state were addressed at the highest level of federal policymaking.
Our thoughts are with his family and the community he faithfully represented. We are certain his commitment to the people of Georgia will serve as a lasting example to those who follow in his footsteps.”
Established in 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) is a non-partisan, nonprofit, public policy, research, and educational institute committed to advancing the global black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public. For more information, visit cbcfinc.org. As a 501(c)(3), the CBCF takes no position on legislation or regulatory matters before Congress or any other government agency.