Ben Nighthorse Campbell

Ben Nighthorse Campbell was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Colorado in 1987 and subsequently served in the U.S. Senate from 1992--2004. He is one of a handful of American Indians who has served in the U. S. Senate, and is one of the 44 Chiefs of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. An eloquent speaker and principled leader who is a strong voice in politics, Campbell speaks passionately about decreasing crime, improving education, and supporting veterans' issues. In addition, his efforts off the political range are varied--he is a renowned jewelry designer, rancher, and trainer of champion quarter horses. Exclusively represented by Leading Authorities speakers bureau, Campbell's work in government has beaten a path rarely treaded by American Indians, breaking barriers and opening doors. His message is clear, and his passion contagious. Above all, he is a family man and an outspoken champion of American values.

High kicks, high flying. Campbell shares the seminal stories from his youth and being a born leader, which illustrate his presentations about leadership and perseverance. Before entering college, Campbell served in the U.S. Air Force. Stationed in Korea, he attained the rank of Airman 2nd Class. Campbell received a bachelor's degree in physical education and fine arts from San Jose State University and later attended Meiji University in Tokyo as a special research student. He was the U.S. Judo Champion 1961-1963, and All-American 1964. Also in 1964, he was captain of the U.S. Olympic judo team and placed fourth at the Tokyo Olympics.

First elected to the Senate in 1992, Campbell was re-elected with 62% of the vote. Prior to his election to the U.S. Senate, Campbell served in the U.S. House of Representatives and served in the Colorado State General Assembly from.

Throughout his career, he has fought to reduce spending in order to balance the federal budget and lower tax rates across the board. He has worked steadily to decrease crime, improve education, and support veterans' issues. Today he continues his efforts to champion projects important to Colorado and to improve the safety and well being of all Americans. He also still actively crafts and markets his "Nighthorse" jewelry line, and designed a jewelry piece, "The Creation Pendant" for the National Museum of the American Indian to sell for fundraising purposes.

A new age for a longtime native. In 1997, Campbell became the first American Indian to chair the Indian Affairs Committee. In addition to furthering several lands projects that are significant to American Indian history, he has sponsored legislation aimed at addressing Indian health, education, and economic needs. During the 106th Congress, Campbell had more free-standing Senate legislation passed into law (12 public laws) than any other member of Congress.