Georgia Rep David Scott, whose political career in the Peach State spanned more than 50 years, has died. His death was confirmed to the media by his office.

A cause of death wasn’t immediately disclosed. Rumors of Scott suffering from an unconfirmed illness began circulating earlier this year before and after he officially qualified to run for re-election in a competitive, 13th District Democratic primary race.

Scott’s political career in Georgia began in 1974 when he was first elected to the Georgia General Assembly.

He gained a reputation for being a tireless advocate for farmers and military veterans who hosted numerous job fairs in metro Atlanta. In 2014, he helped increase healthcare benefits for those who served in the armed services by sponsoring the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act.

Less than a week ago, he was questioning Commodity Futures Trading Commission Chair Michael Selig during a House Agricultural Committee hearing. His staff hasn’t responded to requests for comment from Capital B Atlanta.

Scott is survived by his wife, Alfredia Aaron-Scott, their two adult daughters, Marcye and Dayna,  son-in-law Kwame and two grandchildren Kimani and Kaylin. Tributes from fellow Democrats and Republicans began pouring in after news of Scott’s passing broke Wednesday afternoon, including some of his primary competitors.

State Rep. Jasmine Clark told Capital B Atlanta Scott’s office called her earlier today before the news of his passing broke. She said she’s praying for members of his family.

“His legacy of unwavering dedication to public service for more than fifty years will live on,” Clark said in an emailed statement. “From his job fairs, to his support of farmers, veterans, and HBCUs, and more, Congressman Scott’s impact is woven into the fabric of our community and will live on in Georgia’s story.”

Clark and fellow primary candidate Everton Blair have been vocal critics of Scott, but both put politics aside on Wednesday to recognize his “humanity,” and storied career.

“For more than two decades, he answered the call to serve the people of Georgia’s 13th Congressional District with dedication and conviction,” Blair wrote in a post on Instagram. “His legacy of public service spans a lifetime of leadership.”

Gov. Brian Kemp referred to Scott as a “devoted public servant” who “served his state as a stalwart supporter of Georgia’s agriculture industry.”

“Our prayers are with his family, colleagues, and loved ones at this time,” Kemp wrote on X.

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff sent his own condolences to Scott’s family and staff, saying Georgia is a better place thanks to Scott’s service.

 “May his memory be a blessing,” Ossoff said.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens referred to Scott as “a tireless advocate for the people he served.”

“For decades, he fought for Georgia farmers, advocated for our veterans and ensured his constituents were supported at the street level with job and health fairs, serving tens of thousands of Georgians over the years,” Dickens said in an emailed statement. “His legacy is one of service, perseverance and deep commitment to this state.”

Scott was one of seven candidates competing in a May 19 Democratic primary race for Georgia’s 13th District. Kemp’s office hasn’t confirmed whether it will call a special election to fill the remainder of Scott’s term, which ends in January.