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Former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a prominent figure in Western Colorado politics for decades, passed away on Tuesday from natural causes, as confirmed by his daughter, Shanan Campbell.
Campbell served two terms in the Senate representing Colorado after his tenure in the House of Representatives and the state legislature. He was ninety-two years old, the Colorado Sun noted.
Campbell is primarily recognized for his extensive political career, yet he also occupied several other distinguished positions, including service in the U.S. Air Force and membership on the U.S. Olympic Team.
Campbell served in the Colorado state legislature from 1983 to 1986, subsequently completing three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Subsequently, he was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992, where he changed his party affiliation from Democrat to Republican in 1995.
He held the position of chair of the Committee on Indian Affairs until the conclusion of his second term in January 2005.
Campbell was the inaugural Native American to preside over the committee and the sole Native American to serve in the Senate throughout his two terms.
A member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, Campbell inadvertently entered his political career, according to former Colorado GOP Chairman Dick Wadhams, who led the organization from 2007 to 2011.
Wadhams stated that Campbell entered a Democratic meeting in Durango and emerged as the nominee for state representative.
Colorado Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert wrote on X, “Colorado lost a true legend in former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. A proud Northern Cheyenne, Olympian, veteran, and trailblazing leader who championed our great state. He and his beloved wife Linda were pioneers for Colorado and built a legacy of strength, service, and innovation that will inspire generations to come.”
The Colorado Senate Republicans wrote on X, “The Colorado Senate Republicans are saddened by the passing of former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. He was an important figure in Colorado’s history, known for his service, independence, and deep commitment to the state.”
“Born in 1933 and a proud citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, Ben Nighthorse Campbell’s life story was marked by perseverance and achievement across many disciplines. He served his country in the United States Air Force, competed as an Olympic athlete in judo, and earned international recognition as a master jewelry artist before entering public service. These experiences shaped a public servant who brought discipline, creativity, and conviction to every role he held,” the group added.
“Senator Campbell represented Colorado in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1987 to 1993 and in the U.S. Senate from 1993 to 2005. During his tenure, he was known for his independent voice, thoughtful approach to policy, and willingness to work across party lines in Colorado’s best interests. He made history as one of the few Native Americans to serve in Congress and as the first Native American to chair the U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, where he was a strong advocate for tribal sovereignty and accountability in federal-tribal relations,” they added.
Colorado Minority Leader Cleave Simpson said, “The Colorado Senate Republicans send our deepest condolences to Senator Campbell’s family, friends, and everyone touched by his life and service. We honor his contributions to Colorado and the lasting impact he made on our state and country.”
Former U.S. Sen. Hank Brown, a Republican who served Colorado alongside Campbell, said Campbell “did a great job in capturing the spirit of Colorado and representing it.”
“He was enormously straightforward and honest,” Brown said.
