South Carolina State Senator John Scott dies at age 69

South Carolina State Senator John Scott died Sunday at age 69 at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Scott was admitted to the medical center on Friday for an unknown medical problem. According to the family, "he passed away peaceably while surrounded by family and close friends."

The senator was known for being one of the longest-serving members of the South Carolina legislature. Scott began his career in politics in 1991 when he was elected to the state House of Representatives. In 2008, he was elected to the Senate. Throughout his 30-year career in the legislature, Scott served on the Judiciary, Medical and Criminal Affairs Committees.

Several politicians from South Carolina, regardless of party, sent messages of condolences for Scott's family throughout Sunday and Monday. Among them was Republican Governor Henry McMaster, who thanked Scott for his work over the past 30 years. He emphasized the profound impact he had in Richland County and throughout the state.

South Carolina Senate Republicans also sent their condolences along with messages of support for Scott's family. Senator Thomas Alexander shared the message from John Scott's family. Thomas Alexander announced that state flags will fly at half-staff once Scott's funeral arrangements are announced.

In accordance with Senate bylaws, a special election will be held in the next few weeks to fill Scott's Senate seat. The Speaker of the House will call the vote on the third Friday after the senator's death, as stipulated by the South Carolina Senate code.