Former Delegate Jim Scott Dies

U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11) released the following statement on the passing of former Virginia Del. Jim Scott:

"Virginia has lost a quiet, gentle but forceful advocate for all who feel powerless. Jim Scott was a voice for civil rights, women's rights and LGBT rights because he believed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States meant what they said.

“Unusual for a politician, Jim was self-effacing. A natural mentor, he promoted talent and sought to bestow credit on others. He advanced the careers of myriad public officials. His generosity of spirit benefited causes throughout our Virginia Commonwealth. And most of that generosity was unheralded.

“He championed affordable housing, the homeless, the Fairfax Fair, telework, the environment, among scores of causes. In doing so he elevated politics and ennobled public service as a calling.

“Jim was a loving and devoted husband to his beloved wife Nancy and a proud Dad to two extraordinary and accomplished daughters. He was a devout Methodist, and passionate sports fan‎ for North Carolina and the Washington Nationals.

“It will be difficult to re-imagine the NOVA community without his towering presence and wise guidance. And his absence will be a void for those of us privileged to know him."

McAuliffe: Deeply Saddened

Gov.Terry McAuliffe released the following statement on the passing of former Virginia Delegate Jim Scott:

“Dorothy and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Delegate Jim Scott, a thoughtful, quiet and caring servant of the citizens of Fairfax County and the Commonwealth. Delegate Scott was a pioneering advocate for fair and affordable housing in Fairfax County and Virginia. He was an ardent supporter of transparency and accountability in political campaigns as the patron of the ‘Stand By Your Ad’ legislation. Jim also fought tirelessly for increased participation in the election process through implementation of the ‘Motor Voter’ law at Virginia's DMV offices. His proudest achievement and lasting legacy will be the School for Conflict Resolution and Analysis at George Mason University – committed to seeking ways to break cycles of violence. His many accomplishments are a testimony to his dedication to the Commonwealth and to his district. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Scott family.”

Chap Petersen: ‘RIP, Friend’

State Sen. Chap Petersen posted the following note on Facebook:

“A word about former Delegate Jim Scott, who passed away yesterday. He was a man of great integrity and a leader on so many issues in Fairfax County and statewide. I was lucky to know him and his wife Nancy, before I ran for Delegate. (Jim's service as a County Board member dated back to my Dad's time on City Council). On a personal note, Jim stepped up for me so many times, when I was under attack from partisans on both sides. No point in going into details, other than he was so well-respected that his ‘vote of confidence’ in me made all the difference. I try to pay it forward. A native of Galax, Virginia, a beautiful town, and a Tar Heel alum all the way. RIP, friend.”

Del. Marcus B. Simon: Long List of Accomplishments

Del. Marcus B. Simon (D-53) posted the following statement:

My predecessor, mentor, and dear friend James M. ‘Jim’ Scott died today of complications from Alzheimer's disease.

“When Jim was first diagnosed he started carrying note cards to help him keep track of things. Not long after I was elected in November 2013 he used one to make a list of his accomplishments. Nancy shared the card with me tonight. Jim was responsible for so many important things we now take for granted in Virginia — things like a motor voter law that allows people to register to vote at the DMV. He started Fairfax County's SACC program. Introduced legislation to establish the Secretary of Technology in Virginia. Helped establish the School For Conflict Analysis and Resolution (SCAR) at George Mason University. Was a champion for fair housing and affordable housing. The list goes on.”