Ben Nighthorse Campbell, the former U.S. senator from Colorado, Native American leader, and proud Portuguese-American, died at the age of 92. He passed away from natural causes at his Colorado ranch, surrounded by family.
Born on April 13, 1933, in Auburn, California, Campbell’s life reflected a uniquely multicultural American story.
He was the son of a Portuguese-American mother, Mary Vierra (Vieira), an immigrant who arrived in the United States as a child from Pico Island, in the Azores, and a father of Northern Cheyenne, Apache, and Pueblo Indian descent.
A citizen of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, Campbell emerged as one of the most distinctive figures in modern American political history. Raised amid hardship, his life journey from a difficult childhood to national leadership became a defining story of resilience, service, and achievement.
Ben Nighthorse Campbell (1933-2025)
Originally a member of the Democratic Party, Campbell switched to the Republican Party on March 3, 1995. He was known for his advocacy on Native American issues and his bipartisan approach to governance. He was also recognized for his colorful presence in Congress—often wearing cowboy boots, a bolo tie, and his signature ponytail. He served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives (1987–1993) and two terms in the U.S. Senate (1993–2005), becoming the first Native American to serve in the Senate during his tenure and the only one to chair the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.
Sen.Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) honored Campbell’s legacy, stating, “As the first Native American to serve in the U.S. Senate in over 60 years and the first Native American to chair the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, he fought to advance federal policy that upheld the dignity and security of Tribes across the country and all Americans… My prayers are with his family and all who were blessed to know him.”
His public service extended beyond legislation. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Olympic judo athlete, and internationally recognized jewelry artist, Campbell’s life bridged athletics, arts, military service, and politics. Among his many notable contributions, he played a pivotal role in advancing tribal sovereignty, helped establish national parks, and supported the creation of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian.
Many tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) said, “Colorado lost a true legend… A proud Northern Cheyenne, Olympian, veteran, and trailblazing leader who championed our great state. He and his beloved wife Linda were pioneers for Colorado and built a legacy of strength, service, and innovation that will inspire generations to come.”
Ben Nighthorse Campbell’s life and career left an enduring mark on the nation. As a Native American leader and the son of Portuguese immigrants, he was a respected statesman who forged a legacy at the intersection of Indigenous identity, immigrant heritage, and American public life. He died on December 30, 2025.
PAJ/Staff
