Summary
Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former U.S. Senator and Representative from Colorado, passed away at the age of 92. Known for his advocacy on Native American issues and his change from the Democratic to the Republican Party, Campbell served in Congress from 1987 to 2005. He retired to focus on Native American jewelry and consulting work related to federal policy.
Key Facts
- Ben Nighthorse Campbell served as a U.S. Senator and Representative from Colorado.
- He died of natural causes at the age of 92.
- Campbell was a member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe and focused on Native American issues.
- Initially a Democrat, he switched to the Republican Party in 1995.
- He played a part in upgrading the Great Sand Dunes to a national park.
- Campbell retired after a health scare and pursued a career in jewelry making and consulting.
- He frequently drove the Capitol Christmas Tree to Washington D.C.
- His career in politics began unexpectedly after attending a Democratic meeting.
