Bennet, Hickenlooper Honor Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell’s Legacy

Jan 16, 2026| Press Releases

Denver - Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper introduced a resolution to honor Ben Nighthorse Campbell, former U.S. Senator for Colorado, who passed away on December 30, 2025. Last night, the Senate unanimously passed the resolution.

"Ben Nighthorse Campbell was a trailblazer - not just for Colorado but for the entire country," said Bennet. "Over his two decades in Congress, he was a tireless advocate for working families and children, brought Native American issues to the forefront of American politics, and was instrumental in protecting Colorado's public lands. He was never afraid to stand up to his own party - and even change parties - when he believed it was right for Colorado. He showed me and every elected official in our state what it truly meant to serve your community. I am proud to see his life and accomplishments honored through the unanimous passage of our resolution, and thank my colleagues for coming together to recognize his achievements."

"Ben Nighthorse Campbell from the Northern Cheyenne tribe served 6 years in the House and 12 years as a U.S. Senator. He was a master jeweler with a reputation far beyond the boundaries of Colorado. He was always generous with his time and wisdom. I will not forget his acts of kindness. He will be sorely missed," said Hickenlooper. "This resolution honors his legacy of service to Colorado, his achievements, and the tremendous human being he was."

Nighthorse Campbell served three terms in the House of Representatives before serving two terms in the Senate.

The text of the resolution is available HERE.

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