Former insurance commissioner in coma after stroke

Raleigh, N.C. — Former state Insurance Commissioner Jim Long remains in a coma after suffering a stroke last week, his wife said Monday.

Long is listed in stable condition at Rex Hospital. 

Long was outside the office of state Rep. Cary Allred, R-Alamance, at the Legislative Office Building when he collapsed Jan. 21.

Long, 68, served as insurance commissioner for 24 years before choosing not to seek re-election last fall.

EMS transported Long to Rex Hospital, where doctors determined he had suffered a stroke, Rex spokeswoman Melody Hunter-Pillion said.

“Jim has suffered a very serious stroke,” Long's wife, Peg O’Connell, said. “He is still in a coma, but we are hopeful that he will regain consciousness soon. The physicians and staff at Rex are giving him the best care possible.”