Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a Northern Cheyenne tribe member who served two terms in the United States Senate and three terms in the House of Representatives, died Tuesday at 92 years old of natural causes at his ranch near Ignacio in southwestern Colorado, surrounded by family.
His daughter Shanan Campbell confirmed the death. Campbell was married to Linda Campbell for 59 years and had two children, Colin Campbell and Shanan Campbell, along with four grandchildren.
Campbell represented Colorado in Congress, never losing an election throughout his political career. He was first elected to the House in 1987 and won election to the Senate in 1992 as a Democrat before switching to the Republican Party in 1995.
During his Senate tenure, Campbell chaired the Committee on Indian Affairs and was the only Native American serving in the Senate at that time. Campbell retired from the Senate in January 2005.
“He was always generous to me with his time and wisdom,” Sen. John Hickenlooper wrote in a remembrance. “I will not forget his acts of kindness. He will be sorely missed.”
Representative Lauren Boebert posted on social media that Campbell was “a distinguished member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, Olympic athlete, military veteran, and groundbreaking leader who advocated for our wonderful state.” She noted that both he and Linda “were innovators for Colorado and established a heritage of resilience, public service, and forward-thinking that will motivate future generations.”
Campbell played a significant role in creating the Sand Creek Massacre site as a unit of the National Park system. He also helped establish Great Sand Dunes National Park in southern Colorado.
Born April 13, 1933, in Auburn, California, Campbell served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1953, stationed in Korea. He attended San Jose State University, where he received a degree in 1957.
Beyond politics, Campbell’s life encompassed remarkable athletic achievements. He competed in judo at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, though he was injured at the Olympics and did not medal. He won a gold medal in judo at the Pan-American Games in 1963.
Campbell was also an award-winning jewelry designer, a craft he developed throughout his life. “I can show you his jewelry and explain to you what phase of his life he was in,” Shanan Campbell said. “It is almost like a journal. Nothing in his life is done haphazardly. Everything is done with clear intent.”
His political career began somewhat unexpectedly. Campbell walked into a Democratic meeting in Durango and emerged as a nominee for state representative. He served in the Colorado state legislature before moving to the House of Representatives in 1987.
Campbell’s 1995 party switch from Democrat to Republican shocked Colorado’s political establishment. The move came during his first Senate term, and he went on to win reelection as a Republican, serving until his retirement.
As a member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, Campbell brought unique perspectives to his legislative work. He focused extensively on Native American affairs throughout his congressional career, using his position to advocate for tribal issues and preserve Native American history.
Campbell cut a distinctive figure in Washington, known for his straightforward approach to politics. His colleagues remembered him for his years of service.
Throughout his time in Congress, Campbell worked across party lines on various initiatives. His legislative efforts spanned environmental conservation, Native American rights, and western state interests, reflecting his deep connection to Colorado and his heritage.
