South Dakota Democrat Party Chairman Randy Seiler dies after collapsing during run

April 19, 2023

PIERRE, S.D.–South Dakota Democrat Party Chairman Randy Seiler of Fort Pierre has died.

His wife Wanda, in a Facebook post, said Seiler collapsed last week while running with their dog at the Oahe Dam. He passed away Monday night surrounded by family.

Seiler was appointed as the 41st United States Attorney for South Dakota in 2015, serving until 2017. In 2018, Seiler ran for state Attorney General as the Democrat nominee, but was defeated by Republican Jason Ravnsborg.  Seiler had also served as a member of the Fort Pierre City Council.

Seiler’s term as state Democrat Party Chairman was set to end May 1st.

South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley released a statement saying, “Randy Seiler was a brilliant lawyer, a great U.S. Attorney for South Dakota, a strong advocate for victims, a dear friend, and most importantly, an amazing father and husband.”

South Dakota U.S. Senator Mike Rounds said, “Randy Seiler was not only my neighbor but a good friend. I always appreciated our candid conversations about issues facing South Dakota. He cared deeply for our state and our citizens.”

South Dakota’s current U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell said, ““With profound sadness, our office mourns the untimely passing of our friend and former colleague Randy Seiler. Randy served South Dakota for over two decades as a federal prosecutor and, ultimately, as United States Attorney. He led with unparalleled dedication to the cause of justice and equality under the law. Randy was an inspiring and tenacious leader, and we will miss him dearly.”

Seiler is survived by his wife, Wanda, and four children. Service arrangements are pending.

Randy Seiler was 76 years old.