Ben Nighthorse Campbell, American soldier and politician

Ben Nighthorse Campbell, born on April 13, 1933, stands as a truly unique and impactful figure in modern American politics. A proud member of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Tribe, his journey into public service followed a remarkable path that included military service during the Korean War, an Olympic athletic career as a judoka, and a successful jewelry business. These diverse experiences forged a distinctive perspective that he brought to the halls of Congress.

His political career began with his election to the United States House of Representatives, where he proudly represented Colorado's 3rd congressional district from 1987 to 1993. Building on this foundation, Campbell ascended to the U.S. Senate, serving Colorado from 1993 to 2005. During his entire tenure in both chambers of Congress, he held the significant distinction of being the sole Native American actively serving in the U.S. Congress, a powerful symbol of representation for Indigenous peoples across the nation. As of 2022, he remains the last Native American to have been elected to the U.S. Senate, underscoring the enduring historical importance of his time in office.

Beyond his legislative duties in Washington D.C., Campbell maintained deep roots within his community. He serves as one of forty-four esteemed members of the Council of Chiefs of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Tribe, a testament to his continued commitment and leadership within his ancestral heritage.

A notable shift in his political affiliation occurred on March 3, 1995, when Campbell, originally a Democrat, made the significant decision to switch to the Republican Party. This move, while not uncommon in American politics, marked a pivotal moment in his career. Despite the change, he was reelected to the U.S. Senate in 1998, demonstrating continued support from Colorado voters.

In March 2004, after years of dedicated service, Senator Campbell announced his decision not to seek reelection for a third term in November of that year, paving the way for a new representative. His Senate seat was subsequently won by Democrat Ken Salazar in the November 2004 election, marking a transition for Colorado's representation in the upper chamber.

Following his distinguished career in the Senate, Campbell explored new avenues for public service. He expressed interest in running for Governor of Colorado in 2006 but ultimately announced on January 4, 2006, that he would not enter the race. Post-politics, he transitioned into the world of lobbying, initially joining the prominent law and lobbying firm Holland & Knight. Later, leveraging his extensive experience and network, he co-founded his own lobbying firm, Ben Nighthorse Consultants, where he continues to apply his insights and influence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ben Nighthorse Campbell

Who is Ben Nighthorse Campbell?
Ben Nighthorse Campbell is an American Cheyenne politician, businessman, and former Olympic athlete who served in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, representing the state of Colorado. He is notable for being the only Native American in Congress during his tenure and, as of 2022, the last Native American elected to the U.S. Senate.
What was Ben Nighthorse Campbell's political career timeline?
He served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1987 to 1993, and then as a U.S. Senator from 1993 to 2005, both representing Colorado. He initially served as a Democrat before switching to the Republican Party in 1995.
What is the significance of his Native American heritage in his political career?
Ben Nighthorse Campbell is a member of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Tribe and served on its Council of Chiefs. During his time in Congress, he was the only Native American representative, making him a crucial voice and symbol for Indigenous communities. His election to the Senate holds historical significance as he remains, as of 2022, the last Native American to achieve that office.
When did Ben Nighthorse Campbell switch political parties?
He switched from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party on March 3, 1995, while serving in the U.S. Senate.
What did Ben Nighthorse Campbell do after leaving the Senate?
After deciding not to seek a third term in the Senate, he considered a run for Governor of Colorado in 2006 but ultimately did not enter the race. He then transitioned into lobbying, working first for Holland & Knight before co-founding his own firm, Ben Nighthorse Consultants.
Was Ben Nighthorse Campbell involved in anything before politics?
Yes, his background is quite varied. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, was an Olympic judoka in the 1964 Tokyo Games, and operated a successful jewelry business before entering politics.