Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former U.S. Senator from Colorado, has died at the age of 92. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy etched in both the halls of Congress and the artistry of American Indian jewelry.
Campbell’s life was a remarkable tapestry woven with threads of diverse experience. Born in 1933, he served his country in the Air Force during the Korean War, later earning a degree from San Jose State University. His athletic prowess shone on the world stage, culminating in a gold medal at the Pan American Games and representing the U.S. in judo at the 1964 Olympics.
Before entering the political arena, Campbell walked many paths – deputy sheriff, judo coach, high school teacher, and even a motorcycle enthusiast inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame. He was a man of action, a rancher, and a skilled craftsman, constantly seeking new challenges and mastering diverse skills.
His political career began in the Colorado House, then moved to the U.S. House, before ultimately reaching the Senate in 1993. He became a powerful voice, particularly for Native American issues, driven by a deeply personal connection to history.
Campbell carried the weight of a tragic ancestral past. He often spoke of the massacre of over 150 Native Americans, including his ancestors, under a flag of truce in 1864. This event fueled his dedication to seeking justice and recognition for Native American communities, leading him to champion legislation to elevate the Great Sand Dunes National Monument to a national park – the very site of the killings.
A surprising shift in political affiliation marked his Senate years. Frustrated with the Democratic Party’s stance on a balanced-budget amendment, he switched to the Republican Party in 1995. Yet, he insisted his core principles remained unchanged, emphasizing his consistent support for labor, minorities, and women’s issues.
He described himself as a social liberal and fiscal conservative, a combination that often drew criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Campbell embraced his independence, stating he wouldn’t attempt to be “all things to all people,” choosing instead to remain true to his convictions.
Beyond politics, Campbell’s artistry flourished. A master jeweler, his designs were celebrated and displayed at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian, a testament to his exceptional talent and cultural heritage. His creations were renowned far beyond Colorado’s borders.
Colleagues remembered him fondly. Senator John Hickenlooper described him as a master jeweler and a kind soul, while Governor Jared Polis ordered flags lowered to half-staff, acknowledging his lasting legacy on both the state and the nation. He is survived by his wife Linda, their children Shanan and Colin, and four grandchildren.
Even after retiring from public office due to health concerns in 2005, Campbell remained active, founding a consulting firm and continuing his jewelry work. He drove the Capitol Christmas Tree across the country on multiple occasions, a final act of service and a symbol of his enduring spirit.
