North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem has died after being hospitalized earlier in the day. Bismarck police responded to a medical call at Stenehjem’s home around 8:27 a.m., and he was then taken to a local hospital. At the time Stenehjem’s brother, Allan, says the attorney general was suffering from an inflamed ulcer. The 68-year-old Stenehjem is the longest-serving attorney general in state history. He announced last month he would not seek another term. Stenehjem first took office in 2001.
Governor Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff until further notice.
Official statement from Stenehjem’s office:
It is with the utmost sadness that the Office of Attorney General announces that Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem passed away unexpectedly on Friday January 28, 2022. We know Wayne was a widely respected and well-known public figure, but we ask that his family be allowed time to grieve in private. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Governor Burgum statement:
“Like so many North Dakotans who treasured his friendship and admired him for his more than four decades of exceptional service to our state, we are absolutely devastated by the passing of Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem. On a personal level, Wayne was extremely proud of his small-town roots, his ties to UND and time spent practicing law in Grand Forks, and especially his Scandinavian heritage.”
U.S. Senator John Hoeven statement:
“Attorney General Stenehjem spent four decades serving the people of North Dakota, and was a fierce advocate for the rule of law and the rights of our state’s residents. As our state’s longest-serving Attorney General, he worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe and took great pride in supporting our law enforcement officials. We will remember Wayne as a true friend and colleague, who will be greatly missed. Mikey and I send our sincerest condolences to Beth, Andrew and the entire Stenehjem family. We will continue praying for all of his loved ones.”
U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer statement:
“Kris and I are saddened to hear of the passing of North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem. I considered him a close friend and trusted colleague. Wayne was a true patriot, dedicating his life to public service and our great state. He always fought for what was right. My thoughts and prayers are with Beth and his family. Wayne will be sorely missed by all.”
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