RALEIGH, N.C. – Hospital officials say former state Insurance Commissioner Jim Long is in intensive care at a Raleigh hospital after suffering a serious stroke.

Rex Hospital spokeswoman Melody Hunter-Pillion said Friday that Long remains hospitalized after collapsing Wednesday afternoon outside a lawmaker’s office at the Legislative building. Current commissioner Wayne Goodwin said the 68-year-old Long could communicate as he was being treated by emergency crews.

In a statement released by the hospital, his wife, Peg O’Connell, said family members “are tremendously moved by the support” from so many people. She also thanked everyone for respecting their privacy.

Long is a Democrat who retired before last year’s election after serving as commissioner for 23 years.