Rep. David Scott, Ag Policy Champion, Passes Away

0:00It's April 22nd. You're listening to California News today, AI-powered local news. I'm Cori with the story. U.S. Representative David Scott from Georgia just passed away at 80 years old. The Democrat was in his 12th term, and pushing hard for a 13th, even with party challenges breathing down his neck. He held a top spot as the ranking Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee, though his district covered Metro Atlanta suburbs, not farms. Scott built his rep as a key voice on farm support and food assistance programs. As a prominent black lawmaker and the moderate blue dog group, he bridged divides in his party for decades. Lately, though, health struggles drew heat, including a tough primary fight in 2024 and another one brewing right now. His death leaves a gap in Congress, especially on ag policy as tributes pour in from colleagues across the aisle.