Editor’s note: This story is one in a series of articles on candidates for U.S. Congress
A familiar face in Atlanta Democratic politics is looking to oust another well-known Democrat in the District 13 Congressional race. Vincent Fort, a former Georgia State Senate whip, said late last week that he will challenge Rep. David Scott, a 10-term centrist Democrat, in Georgia’s primary. The race could draw national attention because of Fort’s close ties with Sen. Bernie Sanders and his deep ties to the far left in the Atlanta area.
Vincent Fort
Scott was elected to the Congressional seat in 2002 and has fought off challenges in the past. In 2020, Scott took 53 percent of the vote against Keisha Waites – who is now a member of the Atlanta City Council – and Michael Owens – who is currently running for Secretary of State. Democrats Mark Baker and Antonio Gray have both announced their intentions to run for the seat.
Some reports indicate that Fort jumped into the race after it was suggested by some media outlets that Scott was in bad health. However, Fort did not mention Scott’s health during his candidacy announcement – saying that the district needs someone “who is present and progressive.”
Interestingly, reports indicate that neither Scott nor Fort actually live in the 13th District. However, Fort says he plans to move into the district soon. “Not only am I right on the issues, but I also am present and have always been present,” Fort said during his announcement. “I have a reputation of being in the district, amongst the voters and constituents. I won’t be missing in action.”
Scott, who Chairs the House Agriculture Committee, has downplayed concerns about his health and was quoted as saying he is, “strong and vibrant as a roaring lion.”
Fort is touting his experience in the Georgia Senate as a credential for his Congressional campaign. He says this has given him insight into the needs of the constituents in the 13th District. He ran for Mayor of Atlanta in 2017, and even picked up an endorsement from Bernie Sanders in that race. Fort finished in fifth place.
It has been reported that Fort is refusing to accept corporate PAC contributions. Immediately following his announcement, he picked up the endorsement of Atlanta City Councilman Antonio Lewis, a progressive who unseated a more moderate incumbent in the 2021 municipal elections.
“It’s time for a change. We need somebody in place who is prepared and able to fight for a progressive agenda, Fort told HuffPost. We need someone who puts people in this district first.”
