PIERRE, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – Former U.S. Attorney and chair of the Democratic Party of South Dakota, Randy Seiler, has died.

Seiler had been hospitalized since Thursday, after suffering a heart attack.

According to a Facebook post from his wife, Wanda, Seiler collapsed during a run at the Oahe Dam in Pierre last week.

Seiler served as the 41st United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota from 2015 until 2017.

In 2018, Seiler ran for South Dakota Attorney General as the Democratic nominee. He was defeated by Republican Jason Ravnsborg.

In 2019, Seiler was elected as the vice chair of the South Dakota Democratic Party. He became chairman in 2019.

Seiler previously served as a member of the Fort Pierre city council.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda, and four children.

South Dakota Democratic Party released the following statement:

After a brief illness, South Dakota Democratic Party Chair Randy Seiler passed away last night surrounded by his family.

South Dakota Democratic Party acting Chair Jennifer Slaight-Hansen issued the following statement:

“I am in shock. We have lost one of the great leaders of our Party. I personally have lost a mentor and friend. I fall short of words to express my sadness on his sudden passing. I pray his soul rests in peace. I wish Wanda and his family immense strength as they move forward.”

At this time, final arrangements are pending.

Randy’s term as Chair was set to end on May 1, and Jennifer Slaight-Hansen will assume all responsibilities of Chair until her elected term begins on May 1