John L. Scott, Jr.
Lawmaker
John L. Scott, Jr., served as an elected official for over three decades, starting as a member of the Richland County Council, then as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives and finally as the state senator representing the 19th District until his passing in August 2023.
Throughout his notable political career, Scott focused on promoting economic development, improving internet access, supporting veterans and advocating for workforce development through Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs.
During his 18 years in the South Carolina House, Scott was instrumental in enhancing the state’s voting system and in adopting a state-run lottery, among other initiatives. In his more than 13 years in the Senate, he was dedicated to repairing and rebuilding the state’s deteriorating roads, bridges and school buildings. He also secured an $18 million appropriation for South Carolina’s seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to develop “Institutes for Innovation”, fostering progressive partnerships with various businesses and industries.
Scott received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor. His other awards include the MLK Drum Major for Justice Award, the MLK Humanitarian Award, the South Carolina Legislative Black Caucus Ernest Finney Chairman Award and the Anderson County Democratic Party Living Legend Award.
After being inducted into the C.A. Johnson High School Wall of Fame, Scott graduated from South Carolina State University and completed the Diversity Leadership Academy at Furman University’s Richard E. Riley Institute. He held a Doctorate of Humane Letters from Clinton College.
Scott, a dog lover and vintage car enthusiast, was the founding owner of a real estate brokerage and co-owned a consulting firm with his wife, Joan.
