Don Leonard Scott Jr. , a Democrat, represents Virginia's 88th House District as Speaker of the House of Delegates. He is the first Black Speaker in the Virginia House's 405-year history, elected on January 10, 2024, after serving as Minority Leader from 2022 to 2024. Notable achievements include record investments in public schools, expanding health care access, and advocating for criminal justice reform and economic opportunity. A Navy veteran, lawyer, and formerly incarcerated individual , Scott rose from workforce development to open his own Portsmouth law practice in 2015.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University ; law degree from Louisiana State University .
• Early Career: U.S. Navy surface warfare and legal officer on a destroyer; workforce development in Norfolk after 2002 prison release; admitted to Virginia bar .
• Political Experience: Elected to House of Delegates for 80th District , later 88th; Minority Leader ; Speaker , known for efficient, fair leadership across aisles.