Ben Nighthorse Campbell, Trailblazing Colorado Senator and Native American Advocate, Dies at 92

DENVER, CO – Colorado and the nation are mourning the loss of a truly unique political figure. Ben Nighthorse Campbell, the trailblazing former U.S. Senator from Colorado and a powerful voice for Native American rights, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 92. His family confirmed he died of natural causes, surrounded by loved ones.

A Life of Firsts and Fierce Advocacy

Senator Campbell's life was a testament to perseverance and breaking barriers. A proud member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, he etched his name in history as the first Native American to serve in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. His commitment to Indigenous issues was unwavering, often reflected in his distinctive appearance — cowboy boots, bolo ties, and a long ponytail — a visual homage to his heritage.

Born on April 13, 1933, in Auburn, California, Campbell's journey to the Senate was anything but conventional. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, demonstrating an early commitment to public service. His athletic prowess was equally remarkable: he captained the U.S. judo team at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and earned a gold medal at the Pan American Games. Before entering politics, his diverse career included stints as a Sacramento County deputy sheriff, a national judo coach, a dojo owner, and a high school teacher. He was also an avid motorcycle rider and cattle rancher, later earning induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame.

From Colorado House to the U.S. Senate

Campbell's political career began in the Colorado House, laying the groundwork for his ascent to national politics. He then served in the U.S. House before winning a seat in the U.S. Senate, where he represented Colorado from 1993 until his retirement in 2005 due to health reasons. During his time in Congress, he was a staunch advocate for children's rights, organized labor, and fiscal conservatism.

One of the most notable chapters of his political life was his dramatic switch from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party in 1995 while still serving in the Senate. This move, which reportedly stemmed from his frustration with Democrats over a balanced-budget amendment, sent shockwaves through Washington. Despite the party change, Campbell maintained that his core principles remained steadfast. "It didn't change me. I didn't change my voting record," he once stated, emphasizing his consistent support for labor, minority, and women's issues. He famously described himself as a "social liberal and fiscal conservative," often catching flak from both political extremes.

A Champion for Native Rights and Environmental Stewardship

His advocacy for Native American issues was deeply personal. Campbell often spoke of his ancestors who perished in the tragic Sand Creek Massacre of 1864, where U.S. soldiers attacked a peaceful encampment of Cheyenne and Arapaho under a flag of truce. He played a crucial role in sponsoring legislation to elevate the Great Sand Dunes National Monument, located near the massacre site in southern Colorado, to a National Park, ensuring its protection and recognition.

Beyond his legislative work, Campbell was also a renowned master jeweler, with some of his intricate American Indian designs proudly displayed at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian. Even after retiring from public office, he continued to design and craft jewelry and founded Ben Nighthorse Consultants, a lobbying firm focused on federal policy, including Native American affairs and natural resources.

Tributes Pour In for a Colorado Icon

News of Senator Campbell's passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the political spectrum. Colorado Governor Jared Polis ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff, remarking, "He will be missed here in Colorado and across the country, and his contributions leave a lasting legacy to our state and nation."

U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, a Democrat, shared his condolences on X, stating, "He was a master jeweler with a reputation far beyond the boundaries of Colorado. I will not forget his acts of kindness. He will be sorely missed."

Colorado Representative Diana DeGette, also a Democrat, added, "He was truly one of a kind, and I am thinking of his family in the wake of his loss."

Ben Nighthorse Campbell is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, their two children, Shanan and Colin, and four grandchildren. His life, marked by an extraordinary range of accomplishments and an unwavering commitment to his principles, leaves an indelible mark on Colorado and the history of the United States.