Ben Nighthorse Campbell, a former U.S. senator and representative from Colorado, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 92. His daughter, Shanan Campbell, confirmed that he died of natural causes surrounded by family. Campbell, who was a member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, was recognized for his passionate advocacy for Native American rights and issues throughout his political career.

Initially a Democrat, Campbell made headlines when he switched to the Republican Party in 1995, citing frustrations with the Democratic leadership. He was known for his distinctive style, often wearing cowboy boots and bolo ties, and for his commitment to various causes, including children's rights and organized labor. He served three terms in the House of Representatives starting in 1987 and then two terms in the Senate from 1993 to 2005.

Campbell's political career was marked by his efforts to address historical injustices faced by Native Americans, including sponsoring legislation to upgrade the Great Sand Dunes National Monument to a national park, a site linked to the Sand Creek Massacre of 1864, where many Native Americans were killed by U.S. soldiers.

His decision to retire from politics in 2004 was influenced by health concerns, prompting him to focus on his jewelry business, which had gained recognition and was displayed at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian. He also worked as a senior policy adviser and founded a consulting firm that focused on federal policy related to Native American affairs.

Born on April 13, 1933, in Auburn, California, Campbell served in the Air Force during the Korean War and later became a successful judo competitor, representing the U.S. in the 1964 Olympics. His political journey began unexpectedly when he delivered a speech at a local Democratic meeting, leading to his first campaign for office.

Despite his party switch, Campbell maintained that his core values remained unchanged, advocating for social issues while also supporting fiscal conservatism. His legacy includes a complex relationship with both parties, as he often found himself at odds with party lines on various issues, particularly those affecting marginalized communities.