Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a true original who shattered expectations and championed the overlooked, has died at the age of 92. The former U.S. Senator from Colorado passed away peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy etched in both political courage and artistic brilliance.
Campbell’s life was a remarkable tapestry woven with threads of tragedy, triumph, and unwavering principle. He carried the weight of history, knowing his ancestors were among the victims of the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864 – a brutal attack on a peaceful Cheyenne village under a flag of truce. This profound loss fueled his lifelong dedication to Native American rights and justice.
He wasn’t simply a politician; he was a pioneer. Campbell broke barriers as the first Native American to serve in both the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate, representing Colorado with a distinctive style that included cowboy boots, a bolo tie, and a proud, flowing ponytail. He refused to conform, embodying the spirit of the independent West.
His political journey was unconventional. Originally a Democrat, he switched parties in 1995, frustrated by what he perceived as a lack of fiscal responsibility. Yet, he insisted his core values remained constant, a testament to his integrity and refusal to be defined by partisan lines. He was a social liberal and a fiscal conservative, a rare breed in an increasingly polarized landscape.
Beyond the halls of Congress, Campbell was a master jeweler, his intricate designs finding a place in the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian. His artistry was a reflection of his heritage, a way to honor his ancestors and share the beauty of Native American culture with the world.
Campbell’s talents extended far beyond politics and art. He was a decorated athlete, captaining the U.S. judo team at the 1964 Olympics and earning a gold medal at the Pan American Games. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War, worked as a deputy sheriff, and even ran a dojo, teaching the discipline of judo to others.
He was a man of action, a rancher, a motorcycle enthusiast inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame, and a dedicated advocate for children’s rights and organized labor. He even drove the Capitol Christmas Tree across the country on multiple occasions, bringing a touch of Western spirit to the nation’s capital.
Those who knew him remember a man of kindness, principle, and unwavering spirit. His loss is deeply felt, not only in Colorado but across the nation, leaving behind a void that will be difficult to fill. He is survived by his wife Linda, their children Shanan and Colin, and four grandchildren, who carry forward his remarkable legacy.
Ben Nighthorse Campbell’s life was a powerful reminder that true leadership comes from authenticity, courage, and a deep commitment to serving others. He was, without a doubt, one of a kind.
