Former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a prominent figure in Western Colorado politics, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 92. His daughter, Shanan Campbell, confirmed the news, stating that he died of natural causes surrounded by family.
Ben Nighthorse Campbell: A Political Legacy
Campbell served two terms in the U.S. Senate after a distinguished career in the House of Representatives and the Colorado state legislature. His political journey saw him change his party affiliation from Democrat to Republican in 1995. During his time in the Senate, he held the position of chair of the Committee on Indian Affairs until his retirement in January 2005.
Trailblazer and Advocate
- First Native American to chair the Indian Affairs Committee
- Only Native American in the Senate during his tenure
- Member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe.
Campbell began his political career somewhat unexpectedly, as he recounted how he became a nominee for state representative during a Democratic meeting in Durango. His compelling life story and affable personality contributed to his political success.
As an honorary chair of the Sand Creek Massacre Foundation, he played a vital role in the inclusion of the Sand Creek Massacre site in the National Park system. This historical event occurred on November 29, 1864, when U.S. soldiers killed over 150 Native Americans, a tragedy closely linked to Campbell’s heritage.
A Multifaceted Life
Born in Auburn, California, on April 13, 1933, Campbell had a diverse background. His mother was a Portuguese immigrant, while his father belonged to the Northern Cheyenne tribe. He left high school to enlist in the U.S. Air Force, where he served from 1951 to 1953 in Korea. Following his military service, he earned a degree in physical education from San Jose State College.
Olympic Aspirations and Artistic Pursuits
Cambell’s connection with judo dates back to 1960 when he learned that it would be part of the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo. He moved to Japan, training at Meiji University, and won a gold medal at the 1963 Pan-American Games. Despite an injury at the Olympics, he later became a coach for the U.S. National Judo Team.
In addition to his political and athletic endeavors, Campbell was an accomplished jewelry designer. He began crafting jewelry as a child and developed this talent into a lifelong passion, producing unique pieces that reflected different phases of his life. His daughter described his work as a profound expression of his experiences.
A Life of Integrity and Service
During his congressional tenure, Campbell was known for his bipartisanship. His distinctive style often included cowboy boots, a bolo tie, and a ponytail, making him a memorable figure. Colleagues like former Senator Hank Brown praised his honesty and integrity. Campbell considered his change to the Republican Party an act of conscience, believing Republicans offered more support for Native American issues.
Among his notable accomplishments in the Senate, Campbell took pride in securing funding for bulletproof vests for police officers and the construction of the National Museum of the American Indian on the National Mall. Reflecting on his legacy, he expressed a belief that learning from the past is essential for a better future.
A statement from the Campbell family is expected to be released in the coming days, as they honor the life and legacy of Ben Nighthorse Campbell.
