Keith Crisco, who was running for the Democratic nomination for North Carolina's 2nd Congressional District against former "American Idol" star Clay Aiken, died at home on Monday, ABC News reported.
Crisco, 71, died after falling down a flight of stairs. On Monday evening, the Crisco family released a statement:
"We are heartbroken to share the news that Keith has passed away after an accidental fall at his home this afternoon. Keith was our loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He was a remarkable man with a tremendous dedication to his family and to public service. We appreciate the outpouring of love from our family and friends and all who knew him," the statement said.
Last week, Aiken was leading Crisco by fewer than 400 votes and was generally expected to take to nomination. Aiken will take on incumbent Republican Rep. Renee Ellmers in November.
Following news of his death, Aiken released a statement.
"I am stunned and deeply saddened by Keith Crisco's death. Keith came from humble beginnings. No matter how high he rose to Harvard, to the White House and to the Governor's Cabinet he never forgot where he came from. He was a gentleman, a good and honorable man and an extraordinary public servant. I was honored to know him. I am suspending all campaign activities as we pray for his family and friends," his statement said.
The North Carolina GOP also expressed their condolences on Crisco's passing.
"We are incredibly shocked and saddened to hear about Keith Crisco's sudden passing. Keith was an accomplished businessman and public servant with a sterling reputation and a tremendous amount of respect from North Carolinians across the partisan spectrum. Keith, like my father, served the state as Commerce Secretary with dignity and humility, and also like my father, passed away well before his time. Keith's family is in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time," a NCGOP statement said.
Crisco was born and raised in North Carolina. He graduated from Pfeiffer University with a bachelor's in mathematics and physics and received his master's degree in business administration from Harvard University.
Though much of his public service later in life was in North Carolina, he worked as a White House fellow with the U.S. Secretary of Commerce from 1970 to 1971.
