David Scott draws primary challenge from well-connected Democrat

WASHINGTON — A Democratic Party insider launched a primary challenge against U.S. Rep. David Scott (D) on Monday with a pledge to be a more visible progressive voice on income inequality, voting rights and cybersecurity.

Former Cobb County Democratic Party chairman Michael Owens, a Marine Corps veteran who unsuccessfully challenged Scott in 2014, is seeking a rematch against the nine-term congressman in Georgia’s 13th Congressional District.

Owens contends that Scott, 73, has been absent and out of step with his solidly-Democrat southwest Atlanta district, which sweeps from Powder Springs to Stockbridge. He pointed to Scott’s residency outside the district – he lives in the neighboring 5th - and his recent support of Republican incumbents, including U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, ex-Rep. Mia Love and Cobb County Commission Chairman Mike Boyce.

“Those relationships aren’t bringing home the bacon,” Owens said in an interview. “What those Republican relationships are doing is making it harder for us to flip seats here in Georgia. It sows discord among those of us who are fighting the most.”

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