[Senate Document 108-21]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
108th Congress Senate Document 108-21
---------------------------------------------------------------------
TRIBUTES TO HON.
BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
U.S. SENATOR FROM COLORADO
TRIBUTES
IN THE CONGRESS OF
THE UNITED STATES
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
Tributes
Delivered in Congress
Ben Nighthorse Campbell
United States Congressman
1987-1993
United States Senator
1993-2005
Compiled under the direction
of the
Joint Committee on Printing
Trent Lott, Chairman
CONTENTS
Biography.............................................
v
Farewell..............................................
vii
Proceedings in the Senate:
Tributes by Senators:
Allard, Wayne, of Colorado.....................
13
Allen, George, of Virginia.....................
15
Burns, Conrad, of Montana......................
3
Cochran, Thad, of Mississippi..................
11
Conrad, Kent, of North Dakota..................
10
Daschle, Tom, of South Dakota..................
22
Dodd, Christopher J., of Connecticut...........
8
Dole, Elizabeth, of North Carolina.............
21
Domenici, Pete V., of New Mexico...............
12
Frist, William H., of Tennessee................
5
Hatch, Orrin G., of Utah.......................
17
Hutchison, Kay Bailey, of Texas................
14
Kyl, Jon, of Arizona...........................
6
Lautenberg, Frank, of New Jersey...............
6, 7
Leahy, Patrick J., of Vermont..................
20
McConnell, Mitch, of Kentucky..................
9, 22
Nelson, Bill, of Florida.......................
7
Nickles, Don, of Oklahoma......................
3
Reid, Harry, of Nevada.........................
15
Santorum, Rick, of Pennsylvania................
16
Shelby, Richard C., of Alabama.................
5
Proceedings in the House of Representatives:
Tributes by Representatives:
Radanovich, George, of California..............
25
Udall, Mark, of Colorado.......................
23
Biography
Colorado's senior U.S. Senator, Ben Nighthorse Campbell,
was born in Auburn, CA, on April 13, 1933. His mother,
Mary Vierra, was a Portuguese immigrant, and his father,
Albert Campbell, was a Northern Cheyenne Indian. Campbell
was the only American Indian to serve in the U.S. Senate
during his two terms, and is 1 of 44 Chiefs of the
Northern Cheyenne Tribe.
He received a B.A. degree in physical education and fine
arts from San Jose University in 1957 and later attended
Meiji University in Tokyo from 1960 to 1964 as a special
research student and subsequently received an honorary
doctorate in the late 1990s. Before entering college
Campbell served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1953,
stationed in Korea, where he attained the rank of Airman
2d Class.
Campbell is a renowned jewelry designer, athlete, and
trainer of champion quarter horses. He participated in the
1964 Olympic Games as the captain of the U.S. Olympic Judo
Team, and has been a judo instructor. He was elected to
the Colorado State Legislature in 1982, serving for 4
years.
Campbell has been married to the former Linda Price for
more than 35 years.
He is the father of two grown children, Colin Campbell
and Shanan Campbell-Wells. He is a proud grandfather to
Luke and Saylor Longfellow and Lauren Campbell. He and his
family enjoy many activities together, including riding
motorcycles.
Farewell to my Senate Colleagues
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. President, since I am retiring at the
end of this term, after 22 years in public office, let me
say in all honesty that, regardless of party, I have never
in my life met a more dedicated, caring group of men and
women, who are not only my colleagues but also my friends.
We may have our disagreements, but in each our own way, we
know in our hearts that we are trying our best to do the
right thing for our Nation. And I think we probably all
agree that the more we adhere to the teachings of the Good
Book, as we have been admonished many times, the less we
would need a law book.
The people of Colorado have honored me for allowing me
to represent them in our Nation's Capital--not long by
some standards, of course. But I have to tell you, on each
sunlit morning as I drive to work, or each moonlit night,
particularly in the wintertime after a fresh snow, and I
view the dome of this great building as the first or last
thing I do in my workday, I am just thrilled that I was
here for a while and it was a part of my life.
And now I have to tell you how much I admire and respect
my colleagues. Their friendship and guidance is more than
I can ever repay. Each is very special to me, and I
certainly will not forget them. Surely, when newly elected
freshmen are sworn in 100 years from now, and they come on
this floor and open the desks and read the bottoms of
drawers and the names of all the Senators who have
historically been sworn in before them, they will see the
names of Senator Robert Byrd, Senator Ted Stevens, Senator
Dan Inouye, Senator Ted Kennedy, and Senator Domenici of
New Mexico, and they will already know when they read
those names they are reading the names of Members who have
served in this body for most of their adult lives and both
molded the history of this Nation and set a standard of
commitment to excellence for all to follow.
Mr. President, I would be remiss if I did not thank the
unsung heroes of this body, and those are the hard-working
staff people without whose dedication many of us simply
would not get much done. I salute them because they are
not only our employees, but they are our partners in
finding solutions in a world that becomes more complicated
with each passing decade.
TRIBUTES
TO
BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL
Proceedings in the Senate
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Mr. BURNS. Ben Nighthorse Campbell served from the 103d
to the 108th Congress. But my, the knowledge he has had
and the experiences he has had.
It seems as if he has always ridden dangerous things,
including old broncs and horses, which are unpredictable,
and, you might say, not the safest things. What a great
thrill being the cover Senator for Harley-Davidson. He,
too, has lived a great life. He, too, understands the
West. He is also a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe.
The reservation is in my State of Montana.
We campaigned together, learned from each other. Now he
will be returning back to his Colorado, back to the High
Country. He is looking forward to that. * * *
As to all of these men, I want to say you do form
relationships here, and there is a certain bond that
attracts us all, as we learn that even though you may be
on the same side of the aisle or the opposite side of the
aisle, one could always agree or disagree without being
disagreeable. That is what makes the Senate a special
place.
We will miss all of these men, but I am looking forward
to those who take their place as, there again, new
relationships will be developed, a new bond dealing with
the old challenges of a free society, with those who love
the Constitution and love this country who were prepared
to die for it and would if asked to do so today. No one
doubts the depth of their patriotism nor their service to
their country. We welcome them as we say goodbye to old
friends, old relationships that will never be forgotten.
Mr. NICKLES. Mr. President, I wish to make a couple of
comments regarding my very good friend, Ben Nighthorse
Campbell, who is retiring with me at the end of this
session. Senator Campbell is a unique Senator. All
Senators are unique, but he is especially unique. He is a
very special Senator, the only Native American presently
serving in the Senate and he is chairman of the Indian
Affairs Committee.
He has a very distinguished career. He was in the Air
Force. He served in Korea. He served in the State
legislature. He served in the House of Representatives. I
believe he was elected in 1986. He was elected to the
Senate as a Democrat in 1992, 12 years ago. He was
reelected in 1998. In March 1995, he had the courage and
the conviction to change parties. That is not easily done.
He did it and I greatly respect him and admire him for
that, but also for his service to our country.
He is a jewelry designer.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Ben Nighthorse
Campbell and his wife, Linda, fairly well for the last 12
years. I have great respect for him. He has passed a lot
of legislation. A lot of people are not aware of that.
Many of his bills have become law. In many cases, he is a
quiet legislator. He is effective and he gets things done.
He is on the Appropriations Committee. He has had his
fingerprints on a lot of legislation. He is chairman of
the Indian Affairs Committee. That committee considers a
multitude of issues. Some of us kind of moved around and
made way for him to become chairman of that committee. We
thought it was very special to have a Native American
become chairman of the Indian Affairs Committee for the
first time.
He is unique from the standpoint that he rides a Harley.
He has a great love for the West.
I think he has made a valuable, important contribution
to this body, the Senate.
He has represented his State of Colorado very well.
Colorado has had some great Senators. Bill Armstrong was
one of my favorite Senators and one of my mentors. Wayne
Allard is another outstanding Senator from Colorado. Ben
Nighthorse Campbell certainly falls in that role of being
an outstanding Senator. I think he and Linda both will be
missed in this body, the Senate.
I congratulate him and Linda for their many years of
service going all the way back to the military, to the
State legislature, to serving in the House of
Representatives, and now 12 years in the Senate. He has
given a lot of public service to this country, and given
it well. He has served well. As the Bible says, ``Well
done thou good and faithful servant.'' He has certainly
done that. He has made the State of Colorado very proud
and, frankly, the country very proud. The Senate is better
off for his service. I congratulate him for his service.
The Senate will miss the services and the laughter of
Ben Nighthorse Campbell. I compliment him for his service.
Mr. SHELBY. My friend Senator Campbell, Ben Nighthorse
Campbell, you talk about somebody unique. He is a unique
American. He is a Native American. He is proud of who he
is. He has represented the State of Colorado, both in the
House of Representatives and in the Senate, very well. I
wish him the very best. He will certainly not go away in
the future.
Mr. FRIST. Mr. President, Ben Nighthorse Campbell is a
man of many talents. He is an Indian chief, a Korean war
veteran, a champion quarter horse trainer, an Olympic judo
competitor, a rancher, and a jewelry designer.
After his service in the military and a series of
athletic victories, Ben settled down to run his ranch and
design jewelry. But, by pure accident, politics entered
his life. Colorado, the Senate, and America would never be
the same.
In 1982 Ben attended a meeting to support a friend's bid
for sheriff. He made a stunning impression and walked away
drafted as a candidate for the Colorado State Legislature.
Ben served the people of Colorado there and in the House
of Representatives. And 12 years ago, they elected him to
the Senate.
More than 20 years after that fateful evening, Ben has
left an indelible mark on the Senate. He has taken the
lead on critical agricultural issues, fought excessive
spending, argued for a balanced budget, and sponsored
Federal drought relief for farmers. From drug policy to
natural resources conservation, he has advocated for
Colorado interests, and he has brought home what the
people of his State elected him to do. He has also
sponsored or co-sponsored 54 Indian-related bills that
became law. And he is the first American Indian ever to
chair the Senate Indian Affairs Committee. Without him,
the spectacular Museum of the American Indian that graces
our National Mall would not have become a reality.
Ben is a leader who stands firm by his beliefs and works
hard for the people of Colorado and Americans everywhere.
We wish him and his wife, Linda, all the best for the
future.
Friday, November 19, 2004
Mr. KYL. Mr. President, obviously, in the brief time
here I am not going to be able to say everything that
comes to mind about the Senators who are retiring but to
summarize a little bit of the information for the benefit
of those who might be watching.
When you have long, distinguished careers of Senators
and they decide not to run for reelection but leave the
body, there is a lot that comes to mind about their
service. I think it is good to remind ourselves of just a
few of these things because of the service they have
provided, both to the people of their own States and to
the United States. * * *
Mr. President, I wish to say a word about our colleague,
Ben Nighthorse Campbell. Senator Campbell and I served
together in the House of Representatives. He is unique in
the history of the Senate. He is a Native American who
came first to the House and then to the Senate. He
represents the people of the State of Colorado, as does
the Presiding Officer, with distinction. He is a real man
of the people. He is a jeweler, a motorcycle enthusiast, a
real athlete--an Olympian, as a matter of fact, in judo.
He is a man whose interests are extensive beyond the kind
of humdrum interests sometimes we in the Senate focus on.
He brought a lot of spirit and a lot of light to this
body. I know Ben will be missed by every one of us as
well.
These are only four of the colleagues [Senators Nickles,
Campbell, Fitzgerald and Miller] who are going to be
leaving us at the end of this session. These are Senators
whom I became particularly close to. I wanted to say a
word about each one of them, to wish them all the very
best, bid them farewell, also to know they have too many
friends around here to ignore. And we are going to be
staying in touch with every one of them.
We thank them for their service to the people of their
States, to the Senate, and to the people of the United
States of America.
Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I am going to yield the
floor, but I do want to talk about our other colleagues
who are retiring in a few minutes. There are a lot of good
people here on both sides of the aisle.
We are going to miss all of our friends over here, but I
am going to miss Don Nickles. I have had a lot of fights
with him, but I know he always knew where he wanted to go.
I respected that.
Peter Fitzgerald, newer among us, but a gentleman to be
noted, and Ben Nighthorse Campbell comes from a State I
love. I have two grandchildren there. He is a decent
fellow. We are going to miss all of them. I will talk
about them later.
Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. President, while the Senate
is holding in abeyance for the final Omnibus
appropriations bill that the House is getting ready to
file sometime tonight, I want to take the opportunity to
pay tribute to our retiring Senators: Tom Daschle, Fritz
Hollings, Don Nickles, John Breaux, Ben Nighthorse
Campbell, John Edwards, Peter Fitzgerald, Zell Miller, and
Bob Graham.
I wish to make a speech about each one of these Senators
who has become a dear friend, in some cases, over
the years. * * *
Ben Nighthorse Campbell has this wonderful new museum
for Native Americans which would not have happened--just a
stone's throw from this Capitol--had it not been for his
leadership. There is, as you go through this museum, a
special display on the artwork of Ben. I commend it to our
colleagues.
So for all of these names I have mentioned, in the great
poem ``Ulysses,'' he says, ``I am a part of all that I
have met,'' and I am a part of all these great Senators. I
am much richer for it and for having been their friend.
Mr. LAUTENBERG. I talked before about Tom Daschle. I
also will discuss the rest of our colleagues who are
leaving the Senate.
When the 109th Congress convenes in January, nine of our
current colleagues will not be here. I take a few moments
to pay tribute to them. Collectively, our colleagues have
served in the Senate for 144 years. We will miss them. * *
*
Another friend from the other side of the aisle is Ben
Nighthorse Campbell, the senior Senator from Colorado. He
is one of the true originals in the Senate. He is 1 of 44
chiefs of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe. He served our
country in Korea. He is a renowned jewelry designer,
athlete, and trainer of champion quarter horses. He
participated in the 1964 Olympics as a member of the U.S.
Olympic Judo Team.
He was elected to the Colorado State Legislature in
1982, serving for 4 years before coming to Washington. He
has livened up the place with his string ties, beautiful
jewelry, and his Harley-Davidson motorcycles. And he has
been our conscience when it comes to meeting our treaty
obligations to Native Americans.
Mr. DODD. Mr. President, I know the hour is getting late
and others want to be heard, but I briefly want to express
some thoughts about our colleagues who are leaving this
wonderful body. Today we have heard some very compelling
speeches, particularly the one given by my good friend,
Tom Daschle of South Dakota, our Democratic leader.
I was pleased to see so many of our colleagues remain on
the floor to listen to the departing Democratic leader.
The words he expressed about his State, his staff, his
colleagues, his feelings about the country, and the
future, are instructive. I know it can sound repetitive
when people hear us talk about our colleagues this way,
but I think it is important for the public to note that
while they might hear only about the bickering, the part
that you do not often see is the deep respect, affection,
and caring that goes on among the Members of this body.
This affection comes despite the differences that exist in
red States and blue States, or being strongly conservative
or strongly liberal.
There is this weaving of a common denominator through
each and every one of us, particularly after years of
common service in this remarkable institution we call the
Senate. There is a deep and abiding respect for those who
have come here, those who have served here, those who have
tried to make a difference for our country.
It may seem like it is inside discussion, but I hope the
public understands how deeply felt these comments are
about colleagues who will no longer have the pleasure of
spending each and every day in this Chamber, but whose
friendship and collegiality will continue in the years
ahead as we encounter each other in different walks of
life. * * *
Mr. President, I also want to take a few minutes to
speak about another dear friend, Ben Nighthorse Campbell.
Ben and I have served together for a while on the same
side of the aisle. Ben made a decision to move to the
other side of the aisle a few years ago. We talked at
great length about his decision. I recall how it was very
difficult. In fact, we talked into the wee hours of the
morning about his decision to go from the Democratic side
of the aisle to the Republican side of the aisle.
Despite that change, we have continued our strong
friendship over the years. I respected his decision. I was
disappointed by it, obviously, but nonetheless, I
respected the decision he made and the reasons for his
arriving at that decision. I have great affection for him
and wish nothing but the best in the years ahead.
He has a compelling story. He is the son of a Portuguese
immigrant and a Northern Cheyenne Indian. He is 1 of 44
chiefs of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Tribe. He is the
first American Indian to chair the Committee on Indian
Affairs. Without a doubt, Senator Campbell's heritage has
enabled him to bring a unique perspective to this body, a
perspective I know all of us have valued over the years.
Throughout his 12-year tenure in the Senate, Senator
Campbell has represented not only his constituents in
Colorado but Native Americans all across our Nation. For
some years he, along with Dan Inouye of Hawaii and others,
have worked hard to establish the National Museum of the
American Indian. Finally, this past September, the dream
finally became reality. It never would have happened had
it not been for Ben Nighthorse Campbell and Dan Inouye.
As a result of their determination over the years to see
that there would be adequate recognition for America's
Native peoples, the museum would not have happened.
Ben Nighthorse Campbell has been involved in many other
issues such as the Helsinki Commission. But his particular
contribution, I think, will always be raising the profile
and the interests of our Native Americans.
All of us, again, wish him and Linda and their family
the very best in the years to come.
Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, I rise today to bid
farewell to the Olympian from Colorado.
Forty years ago, Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell carried
the American flag in the opening ceremonies of the Olympic
Games in Tokyo, Japan. He was the captain of the U.S. Judo
Team and already a gold medalist in the 1963 Pan-American
Games. For most men, that would be accomplishment enough
for a lifetime. But for Ben Nighthorse Campbell, it was
only the beginning.
Every one of us who has been privileged to serve in the
Senate knows that we will never again see anyone
quite like Ben Nighthorse Campbell. He is probably the
only Senator equally comfortable driving a truck or a
Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He has been both a Democrat
and a Republican, although he is now a Republican, and I
remind the President that wisdom blooms with age.
In 1995, Senator Campbell heroically subdued and
handcuffed a man who had assaulted the late Senator Strom
Thurmond in the Capitol subway. I suspect many Senators
became a little more inclined to vote for his amendments
after that.
Senator Campbell has consistently fought to reduce the
burden the Federal Government places on American families
by cutting taxes and spending. Hailing from the home of
the Rocky Mountains, he has led the Republican Party in
preserving our environment. He was instrumental in
establishing the National Museum of the American Indian on
the National Mall, which opened this fall. He is the only
Native American Indian Senator currently serving, and only
the eighth in the history of Congress.
And the Senate is not the only exclusive club in which
he claims membership. He also is on the Council of 44
Chiefs for the Northern Cheyenne Tribe of Lame Deer, MT.
Senator Campbell is an honest, straightforward man who
likes simple pleasures. He served his country with the
U.S. Air Force in the Korean war. He and his wife of over
35 years, Linda, have two children and three
grandchildren.
He has designed award-winning jewelry and trained
champion quarter horses. And being from Kentucky, the
horse capital of the world, he has my special appreciation
for that. I have welcomed him to my home State before, and
he is welcome again in the Bluegrass State anytime.
In 2001, Senator Campbell rode a motorcycle specially
designed in red, white, and blue in the Inaugural Parade.
I, for one, would not be surprised to see him ride that
bike all the way from here to his hometown of Ignacio, CO,
now that his 12 years with us draws to a close. It has
been an honor to share this Chamber with him, and I salute
his service, tenacity, and integrity.
But most of all I salute his courage. He stood tall as 1
of 100, and he stood just as tall alone.
Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute
to my colleague and friend Senator Ben Nighthorse
Campbell.
Since his election to the Senate in 1992, Senator
Campbell has been the only Native American in this body
and only the eighth to serve in Congress. Senator
Campbell's road to the Congress took many interesting
turns--a truck driver, veteran, athlete, jewelry designer,
and trainer. He served honorably in the Air Force during
the Korean war. He represented the United States as
captain of the 1964 U.S. Olympic Judo Team. Later, he
built a successful jewelry business as well as bred and
trained quarter horses.
During our time in the Senate, I have come to know
Senator Campbell best as a fellow member of the Committee
on Indian Affairs. Senator Campbell has served as chairman
and ranking member of that committee since 1997. In that
capacity, he proved to be an outspoken leader and tireless
advocate for all Native Americans. He invested the time to
learn about the diverse interests impacting tribes across
the country and worked across party lines to develop
workable solutions to those problems.
Senator Campbell often focused on developing and
refining Federal programs that would provide a hand up and
build reservation economies to help make sure all Native
Americans share in the prosperity other Americans have
seen. He was also instrumental in securing a National
Museum for American Indians, an effort that started more
than 15 years ago and culminated with a museum opening
this September along the National Mall.
I particularly appreciated Senator Campbell's role in
helping the tribes in North Dakota make sure the Federal
Government fulfilled its long-standing commitment to
compensate them for the infrastructure lost due to the
construction of the Missouri River dams. Senator Campbell
has helped me shepherd legislation through Congress that
would fulfill one of these vital promises to the Three
Affiliated Tribes, the replacement of its hospital. I
truly appreciated his support.
Senator Campbell has been a true champion for Native
Americans. His compassion and conviction will be missed in
the U.S. Senate.
Mr. COCHRAN. Mr. President, I regret that my friend from
Colorado, Mr. Campbell, is retiring from the Senate. He
and his wife, Linda, have become good friends who will be
truly missed.
I enjoyed serving for a few years on the Committee on
Indian Affairs with him, and I have had the pleasure of
traveling with him on official business of the
Appropriations Committee.
His service in the Senate has been exemplary. He has
taken his responsibilities seriously, and he has reflected
credit on his State.
I did worry about his motorcycle riding. But it was an
asset when the new King of Jordan visited the Senate and
asked to go for a ride.
I hope we will continue to look to Senator Campbell for
advice and counsel in the years ahead, especially on the
finer points of self defense as an Olympic Gold Medal
winner in judo.
Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I rise today to take this
opportunity to honor our departing colleagues who are
leaving the Senate. In almost each new Congress a
different group of 100 men and women comes together from
different backgrounds and political philosophies,
representing different interests and constituencies, but
through all our differences, we develop respect and
admiration for each other. Many times we step across the
aisle and work together on legislation and oftentimes
genuine friendships are created. As I pay tribute to these
departing Senators, whether they have been here one term
or seven, they are a remarkable group and we thank them
for their honorable service.
Ben Nighthorse Campbell has been more than just a
neighbor Senator from out west, but a close friend and
colleague.
I have worked with Senator Campbell on the Senate
Appropriations Committee, the Energy and Natural Resources
Committee and the Indian Affairs Committee. During his 18
years in the U.S. Congress, Senator Campbell has earned
the respect of Members on both sides of the aisle as being
a statesman and staunch advocate for the State of
Colorado. In addition, he is the sole American Indian
serving in the Senate, and he is also a Northern Cheyenne
tribal chief. His work on behalf of tribes is legendary,
and I know he will be sorely missed by the American Indian
people.
Senator Campbell has been a recognized leader on public
land and natural resource policy. Since New Mexico and
Colorado face similar challenges, we have worked closely
on these matters, and it has been a privilege to work with
someone so passionate about improving land management
policies.
Senator Campbell is a veteran, Olympian, and public
servant, and he has selflessly devoted himself to serving
his State and country for over half a century. Senator
Campbell is a unique individual who I call a friend. His
love of nature, his family and his roots are continually
evident. As a father, grandfather, and Senator, I know
that Senator Nighthorse Campbell and his loved ones will
be glad to have more time for family activities.
He proudly represented Colorado and its people. His
leadership and presence will be greatly missed by all. I
wish him the best of luck in all of his future endeavors.
Saturday, November 20, 2004
Mr. ALLARD. Madam President, I take a moment to talk
about four colleagues whom I have had an opportunity to
serve with in the Senate.
First of all, I want to talk about my colleague from the
State of Colorado, who is not going to be with us as we go
into the waning days of the 108th Congress.
I had an opportunity to get to know Ben Campbell in the
Colorado General Assembly. In 1982, he was elected to the
State house and I was elected to the State senate. It was
not long before the buzz in the Capitol was all about this
great Native American whom we had serving in the State
house who brought to the Capitol some common sense from
western Colorado, an individual who in his own right had
already gained some national notoriety.
Senator Campbell came from a family that was somewhat
dysfunctional. It was a poor family. He joined the Air
Force. While he was serving in the Air Force, he had an
opportunity to get his GED. He served in Korea. While
serving in the Air Force, he also spent some time in Japan
where he received some judo training. He became a member
of the first Olympic Judo Team representing the United
States. He had the distinction of carrying the flag
representing the whole United States entourage that was
there participating in the Olympics.
This individual brought a considerable amount of
national notoriety to the Colorado General Assembly. But
he became even more respected because of his firm
conviction, his hard work, and his commitment to small
business, and to water issues of the western slope in the
State house district he represented. In fact, having
finished his first term, he was recognized as 1 of the 10
best legislators in the Colorado General Assembly. He had
an opportunity to serve for about three terms and took on
an incumbent Congressman. He won that particular race and
ended up in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986;
then got elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992, and reelected
in 1998.
During this period of time, I had an opportunity to
establish a personal relationship with Senator Campbell in
the State legislature. I respect a lot of the values he
brought to the legislature. I had an opportunity to work
with him for a short period of time in the U.S. House of
Representatives. He certainly was a team player and
somebody whom I felt I could work with. I looked forward
to the opportunity when I could serve with him in the
Senate. While serving here in the Senate, we became known
as a team representing the interests of Colorado, which
has been pretty effective. A lot of the issues that are
important to the State of Colorado we were able to
accomplish. A lot of it was because he was willing to take
on the responsibilities of the Appropriations Committee.
Representatives from Colorado ordinarily didn't seek out
these committees, but he made a big difference.
I consider it a great pleasure to be able to serve with
him. I consider him family. Not only are we close friends,
but my niece married his son. I have the greatest respect
for the Campbell family. They are great Americans and I am
pleased to be considered part of his family. * * *
I view these four individuals as four individuals who
have distinguished themselves in my mind and four
individuals whom I have appreciated having the opportunity
to serve with in the Senate and whom I hold in great
esteem. I wish them the very best as they pursue life's
journey, having served in a distinguished way in the
Senate. I wish them the very best and Godspeed.
Mrs. HUTCHISON. Madam President, I rise to say goodbye
to several of my colleagues, dear friends and colleagues
with whom I have had the pleasure to work in the
Senate. * * *
Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell is one of the best
friends I have in the Senate. I am particularly going to
miss him. He commands more attention than a Harley-
Davidson with straight pipes.
He brought a wealth of experience and perspective to the
Senate that enriched all of our deliberations. Let me
list, in no particular order, some of these experiences.
He was a fruit picker, a deputy sheriff, the captain of
the U.S. Judo Team in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. He is a
horse trainer, a rancher, a fabulous jewelry artist, and
chief of the Northern Cheyenne tribe.
He also has served the people of Colorado as their
Senator, both as a Democrat and a Republican. He is a
renaissance man in every sense of the word. He can ride a
Harley-Davidson like a genuine biker because he is the
real thing. On his motorcycle or on the Senate floor in
his ponytail and sunglasses or in his business suit, he
has unabashedly defended the values and interests of
Americans of all incomes and backgrounds. This stems from
his pride in our great country.
I remember when he decided it was time for the Capitol
Police to buy American and trade in their Japanese-made
motorcycles for Harleys. He said in his typical upfront
style that the Japanese bikes made the police look like
``pizza delivery boys'' and they are not fast enough to
catch crooks. Needless to say, the Capitol Hill motorcycle
police are now equipped with Harleys.
One of Ben's most prominent contributions is now visible
on our Mall, the National Museum of the American Indian.
He initiated the legislation to found this museum within
the Smithsonian, and the beautiful building housing
priceless collections of American Indian artifacts and art
work is a tremendous legacy of Ben Nighthorse Campbell: my
friend, my colleague, and biker buddy.
Madam President, I will miss all of my colleagues. As we
take the opportunity to go forward in a new Congress, we
will make new friends, but we will never forget the old
ones.
Mr. ALLEN. Mr. President, I want to share my views, as
did Senator Hutchison and others, about our colleagues who
are leaving for new adventures in life.
I wish all the best to Senator Hollings. We will miss
his booming voice. We will miss Senator Edwards, Senator
Graham of Florida, and Senator Daschle. We will also miss
John Breaux, a man we know will enjoy life with his good
common sense and sense of humor. He is a good friend.
I want to speak about four others, though,
Ben Nighthorse Campbell is a unique, proud leader of
heritage. He is a man of principle. I look at Ben
Nighthorse Campbell as one who runs on his own gear ratio.
He is a character with character, whom I will certainly
miss. * * *
Mr. REID. Everyone has heard me talk about Searchlight,
NV, the place of my birth and where I still live. The only
Senator who has ever been to my home in Searchlight is Ben
Nighthorse Campbell. Ben Nighthorse Campbell one day
called my wife and said: I will be in Searchlight and want
to come visit you. I will be there in about 40 minutes.
I was out doing a little jog. I thought something was
wrong when I came back. She said: Nighthorse is on his
way.
He had a vehicle that was so big--I live a little bit
off the beaten path--it could not get into my yard. We
went up and met him and brought him back to my home. We
had a wonderful visit.
Ben Nighthorse Campbell is, among other things, a great
artist. He makes jewelry. I wanted to get my wife
something very special for Christmas a couple years ago,
and I went to Ben Nighthorse Campbell to see if he could
do something unique. He said he was making his daughter a
belt, and he would make one just like it for my wife.
He did that. It is a beautiful piece of jewelry. There
are two of them in the world. My wife has hers, and if you
go to the Museum of the American Indian, which is right
down the way and just opened, you will see my wife's
silver belt in the museum. Actually, it is not hers, it is
his daughter's, but there is only one identical to my
wife's. Ben Nighthorse Campbell is a great guy, a
tremendous athlete.
I have great admiration for his physical prowess. I have
always disagreed with his motorcycle riding but he
believes he should continue doing that. I have read his
book. It is a wonderful rags-to-riches story. He will be
missed and that is an understatement.
Mr. SANTORUM. Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute
to departing Senators for their service and devotion to
the U.S. Senate. They are not only my colleagues but my
friends as well.
The reality of elections for the Senate is that every
two years we experience change--current Members depart and
new Members are welcomed. At every transition I am
reminded by the reality that life is more than just
politics. I am certain the departing Senators are
experiencing a tremendous feeling of sorrow, yet
anticipation of things to come, as they leave their
friends, colleagues, and this great nurturing institution.
Though we may fight hard during campaigns, we return to
the Senate after the election to realize that we are not
just losing Senators--we are losing friends. There is a
bond--a collegiality and friendship in the Senate that
crosses party lines. We face long hard battles on the
campaign trail and sometimes things can get ugly. But
after all is said and done, after election day, we must
all come back to Washington and work together to do what
is best for our country.
I will certainly miss my colleagues with whom I have
worked for several years. I have had the honor to serve on
the Finance Committee with four of my distinguished
retiring colleagues, including Senator John Breaux and
Senator Don Nickles. Both of these men were instrumental
in leading the fight to reform Medicare.
Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell is a very kind and
humble man and I have had the honor to work with him to
assure that nondemocratic forces are unsuccessful in
undermining movements for democracy in the Ukraine. But
what I remember most about Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell
is a story he told me once about his decision to vote for
the ban on partial-birth abortion. While in the hospital
recovering from a motorcycle accident, Senator Campbell
was touched by the immense effort of doctors to save the
lives of babies that weighed only a couple pounds and were
only a couple of minutes old. This picture made him
question partial-birth abortions: Why would we not do
everything in our power to save babies who were still in
their mother's womb? I thank Senator Campbell for his
honesty on this issue and for sharing that story with me.
I will never forget it.
Our departing Senators have been lights of inspiration
and men who went above the call of duty to serve our
country in their congressional capacities. They each have
their own unique political perspective that has served the
Senate well. Although my philosophies may differ from some
Senators, we do not disagree on the greatness of America.
We can all agree that we live in the greatest nation in
the world, and we all believe that without democracy,
life, liberty, and justice cannot flourish.
My departing colleagues are great men and great
Americans. They have contributed immensely to our
country--making their States and our country significantly
better than when they first stepped foot on the Senate
floor.
We are all going to miss their presence and wisdom here
in the Senate. Their departures will surely leave a hole
in expertise and leadership that will be hard to fill. I
wish them health and happiness in their future endeavors--
wherever the road may take them. May God continue to bless
them and their families.
Come January, as we face another transition, I welcome
in the new Members and look forward to forging new
relationships as we continue to work toward making
Americans safer, healthier, and more financially secure.
Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I would like to take a moment
to honor my good friend and colleague, Senator Ben
Nighthorse Campbell of Colorado. Ben is my best friend in
the Senate. I know every one of my Senate colleagues would
join me in expressing how much we care for Senator
Campbell and how much we will miss him here in the Senate.
I have always considered Ben to be larger than life,
someone you would read about in a novel about the Senate
rather than someone actually serving in the Senate. He is
a high school dropout who became a U.S. Senator, a veteran
of the Korean war, captain of the U.S. Judo Team, and an
extremely successful horse breeder and jeweler. He doesn't
conform to any stereotypes. No other Senators--let alone
Republicans--wear a ponytail, ride a Harley-Davidson to
work, or stubbornly refuse to wear any neckwear more
formal than a western bolo tie.
But I am sure I am not surprising any of you by saying
Ben is not your typical politician. One of my favorite
stories about Ben's independent streak is from a town
meeting he held back when he was a Member of the House.
A constituent asked Ben a question, and Ben did his best
to answer it. The gentleman didn't like the response, so
he tersely rephrased the question and Ben answered it
again. The man got very upset, and said ``You have not
answered my question!'' Ben firmly told him, ``Look, you
asked a question, I answered it. You asked me again, and I
answered it. Now I can't help it if you don't like the
answer you got, but these other folks are waiting to ask
questions of their own, so you and I are just going to
have to agree to disagree.''
Ben started to call on another person when the man
jumped out of his chair and yelled to Ben, ``I don't
believe you are taking all of the facts that I've stated
into account, and you are not going to simply dismiss me
like that. I am a taxpayer, and I pay your salary, and I
demand an answer!''
Ben, through gritted teeth, said, ``You know, I hate it
when people feel that because you're an elected official,
they somehow own you. Do you realize that my salary costs
every man, woman and child in this country about one-half
of one cent each year?'' At that point, Ben reached into
his pocket, pulled out a penny, flipped it to the man, and
said, ``Here's your refund!'' He turned to the audience
and yelled, ``Next question!'' The audience cheered and
the man left the meeting.
Now that is a good description of the Ben Nighthorse
Campbell that I have come to know and love.
Most of you know that I have sat next to Ben during
policy lunches ever since he saw the light and switched
parties so many years ago. I still love to tell the story
of when he decided to move over to the right side of the
aisle.
Ben and I became good friends soon after he joined the
Senate, and we repeatedly discussed his growing
disillusionment with the policies and politics of those on
other side of the aisle. I would point out that power, its
accumulation and retention, seemed to be of greater
importance to some on his side than finding the right
answer, that the worth of an issue should not always be
measured simply by political advantage. He would disagree,
but over time his protests would grow fewer and less
heartfelt.
I was surprised when Ben stopped me one day nearly 10
years ago and said, ``Orrin, you're right. I can't stand
it anymore over here.'' He asked whether I could arrange
for him to see Senator Dole, and I said, ``I believe I
can''--3 minutes later we were in Bob Dole's office.
Bob had the biggest smile on his face I had ever seen
and gave Ben a warm hug. He commented about the courage
and principle it took to make such a decision, but he
didn't need to make a hard sell. It was obvious Ben had
already made up his mind to become a Republican.
I can vividly remember when Ben attended his first
Republican policy luncheon. Ben and I had discussed how
disappointed he was with the direction and tone of the
Democrat policy meetings. He said they had devolved from
honest discussions of differences into angry, one-sided
shouting matches dominated by some of the most senior and
well-known Members. If you didn't agree with their liberal
positions, your view wasn't welcome.
I assured Ben that the Republicans were different. We
showed great respect for one another and there was always
considerable deference given to differing points of view.
When Ben and I took our places at the back of the room--
where we have sat together since that day--a quiet
discussion soon broke out into bitter argument. One person
jumped up, anger seething from his face, stared at another
very senior Member with a snarl on his face, and then
called him a derogatory name. Everyone started shouting,
and it took Bob Dole several minutes to restore order.
Ben's eyes got larger and larger as he watched what was
happening, then without turning his head, he gave me a
quick jab in the ribs. ``Gee, Orrin,'' he muttered, ``it's
sure good to see how well we Republicans get along
compared to those darn Democrats!''
Thankfully, Ben's decision to join the Republican Party
wasn't solely based on policy lunches.
I have plenty more stories to tell of my good friend
from Colorado, but I will close by saying that I will miss
Ben dearly and wish him the very best as he starts the
next phase in his life. I know him too well to think that
this is really a retirement from public service. This is
just the end of one phase of service that will open up
several other ways for him to reach out and make a
difference in the lives of those around him.
Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, for the past 12 years, the
Senator from Colorado has served his State with
distinction as a Member of this body. Throughout that
time, I have been pleased to join my friend and colleague
in a number of legislative efforts. He has been a tireless
advocate on behalf of Native Americans, for the protection
of police officers, and for preserving public lands and
natural resources. It is because of his leadership on
these, and many other issues, that the presence of the
senior Senator from Colorado will be missed in this
Chamber.
In 1989, Senator Campbell, then Congressman Campbell,
sponsored legislation to create a new museum that would
ensure the recognition and celebration of Native American
culture and history. I am thrilled that earlier this
summer we were able to join in the celebration with
Senator Campbell as the Smithsonian Museum of the American
Indian opened in Washington, DC. I know that none of us
will ever forget the sight of our colleague in full
chief's regalia speaking on the Senate floor on the day
the new museum opened.
Before serving his State in Washington, Senator Campbell
represented his country as the captain of the U.S. Olympic
Judo Team, competing in the 1964 Tokyo Summer Olympics.
While I have never had to witness him use these skills on
a fellow Member of the Senate, he once helped subdue a
suspect who had shoved Senator Thurmond until the Capitol
Police arrived.
One of Senator Campbell's most noted passions is his
enthusiasm for motor vehicles. Senator Campbell has a
well-documented love of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and
Washingtonians have occasionally caught a glimpse of the
Senator riding around town on his motorcycle. As the
Capitol Hill newspaper The Hill noted in April 2003, the
Senator added to his vehicle collection last spring when
he replaced his 20-year-old Dodge Plymouth last spring
with a brand new Mini Cooper. While most Americans may
know how the Senator gets around town when he is in
Washington, far fewer probably know that Senator Campbell
was behind the wheel for most of the trip when the 2000
National Holiday Tree was transported from Colorado to
Washington, DC, on a Mack truck.
Senator Campbell and I share a background in law
enforcement, he as a former Sacramento County sheriff's
deputy in California, and I as a State's attorney in
Vermont. This background helped bring us together to
develop the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Acts of
1998 that has since been reauthorized in both 2000 and
2004. Since its inception in 1999, this highly successful
Department of Justice program has provided law enforcement
officers in 16,000 jurisdictions nationwide with nearly
350,000 new bulletproof vests.
Earlier this year, Senator Campbell and I collaborated
to produce the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act, which
will allow qualified active-duty law enforcement officers
to travel interstate with a firearm, provided that
officers are carrying their official badges and
photographic identification. I was proud to team up with
Senator Campbell in writing and introducing the Senate
version of the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act that
will enable law enforcement officers nationwide to be
prepared to answer a call to duty no matter where, when,
or in what form it comes.
Senator Campbell has a long and distinguished
legislative history as a Member of the U.S. Congress. I am
proud to have served with him on the Agriculture and
Appropriations Committees, and I am proud of our
partnerships to protect police officers, fight against
landmines, and to provide funding for the WIC and Head
Start Programs. I applaud the Senator for his 12 years of
service in the Senate and 6 years of service in the House
of Representatives, and I congratulate him on a remarkable
career.
Mrs. DOLE. Mr. President, today I want to take a moment
to pay tribute to my friend and my colleague, Senator Ben
Nighthorse Campbell.
Long before I arrived in the Senate, Ben had proven to
be a trusted friend. In my early days as a Senator, our
friendship was furthered as I sought wise counsel from
veteran Members like Ben. I found that his wisdom and
insight on the rules and idiosyncrasies of Capitol Hill
were invaluable to my adjustment here. And I must say, I
just thoroughly enjoy his company. It goes without saying
that having to say farewell to Ben certainly pulls at my
heartstrings.
I also sought Ben's aid when I introduced my first
legislation to finally offer the Lumbee Indian Tribe
Federal recognition. This significant bill would not have
moved forward without the strong assistance of the Senator
from Colorado. I was moved by Ben's interest in the bill,
and to this day, I am touched that he remains invested in
something so close to my heart. I am eternally grateful
for the role he's played in moving Lumbee recognition one
step closer to becoming a reality. Ben's commitment to the
Native American community is unparalleled and is certainly
to be commended.
Ben's legacy will linger in the halls of the Senate long
after he has shut the door to his offices. He leaves
behind a record of service that one can only hope to
emulate. Coloradoans have benefited from Ben's character,
conscientiousness and compassion for years, and I know
they will welcome him home with open arms.
My warmest best wishes to my dear and treasured friend,
Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. There is no doubt that he
will be sorely missed, not just by me, but by all of us
who have been blessed to call him our colleague and our
friend.
Mr. DASCHLE. Today I would like to say a few words about
eight additional Senators with whom I have served these
last historic 6 years, all of whom will be leaving when
this Congress ends. * * *
Senator Nickles, Senator Campbell, Senator Fitzgerald,
and Senator Miller, it has been a privilege to work with
each of you. You have each sacrificed much to serve our
Nation and I am sure you will continue to serve America
well in the years to come.
I have to be honest, Mr. President, it was not my wish
to depart with these fine Senators. But it has been my
honor and a joy to serve with them, and one that I will
remember all the days of my life.
Mr. McCONNELL. We cannot conclude the 108th Congress
without a sense of sadness. There are many--in fact there
are too many--great Senators who are leaving this
institution. I have already had an opportunity to express
my goodbyes to Senator Nickles, Senator Campbell, and
Senator Fitzgerald.
I also wish a happy and healthy future to our colleagues
across the aisle, Senator Daschle, Senator Breaux, Senator
Hollings, Senator Bob Graham, Senator John Edwards, and
Senator Zell Miller. Each of these men has made a lasting
contribution to this marvelous institution.
Proceedings in the House of Representatives
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
COMMEMORATING THE OPENING OF THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE
AMERICAN INDIAN
Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to
join in support of this resolution.
The resolution notes that the National Museum of the
American Indian Act (20 U.S.C. 808 et seq.) established
within the Smithsonian Institution the National Museum of
the American Indian and authorized the construction of a
facility to House the National Museum of the American
Indian on the National Mall in the District of Columbia.
It points out this will be the only national museum
devoted exclusively to the history and art of cultures
indigenous to the Americas, and will give all Americans
the opportunity to learn of the cultural legacy, historic
grandeur, and contemporary culture of Native Americans.
And it recognizes that the new museum officially opens
today.
By its passage, Congress--
(1) recognizes the important and unique contribution of
Native Americans to the cultural legacy of the United
States, both in the past and currently;
(2) honors the cultural achievements of all Native
Americans;
(3) celebrates the official opening of the National
Museum of the American Indian; and
(4) requests the President to issue a proclamation
encouraging all Americans to take advantage of the
resources of the National Museum of the American Indian to
learn about the history and culture of Native Americans.
Mr. Speaker, this day has been a long time coming--and
passage of this resolution will make clear that it is all
the more welcomed by all Americans. The resolution comes
to us from the Senate, where it was introduced by
Colorado's senior Senator, Ben Nighthorse Campbell.
Senator Campbell deserves our thanks, not only for this
resolution but even more for his leadership in making this
day a reality. He has earned the praise extended in two
editorials that I am attaching for the information of our
colleagues;
[From the Rocky Mountain News, September 21, 2004]
Campbell's Legacy
Kudos to Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell for helping create
the Smithsonian's spectacular new National Museum of the
American Indian, which celebrates its grand opening today
on the Washington Mall.
While serving in the U.S. House 15 years ago, Campbell
was asked to be a prime sponsor of the bill that
authorized the museum. He was more than willing, but on
one condition: the Smithsonian must first agree to return
the remains of about 18,500 Native Americans to their
tribes for burial, and other museums nationwide must do
the same.
The museums resisted, but Campbell prevailed.
He also helped procure the $214 million needed to build
the museum and fill it with artifacts. He deserves the
place of honor he will enjoy at today's ceremonies.
a
[Editorial from the Pueblo Chieftain]
A Tribute to Sen. Campbell
When the Colorado Republican started off as a Democrat
in the U.S. House, one of his first bills was to build a
museum to honor the Native Americans who peopled the
Americas long before the first Europeans arrived. A grand
opening ceremony for the National Museum of the American
Indian in Washington, D.C., will be held today, and it
will be the capstone of Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell's
service in Congress.
The monument to a largely ignored set of cultures sits
on the last vacant spot on the National Mall, in the
shadow of the U.S. Capitol, as the centerpiece of the
Smithsonian Institution's 18 museums and galleries. The
five-story, curvilinear building with limestone facade was
designed as if the building itself were a natural
formation carved by rain and snow over the centuries, as
if it had always been there. Yet, it almost wasn't there
at all.
This museum is Sen. Campbell's pride and joy. When the
Colorado Republican started off as a Democrat in the U.S.
House, one of his first bills was to build a museum to
honor the Native Americas who peopled the Americas long
before the first Europeans arrived.
In the years since, Sen. Campbell chaired the museum's
fund-raising committee, leading the effort to raise more
than $100 million in private financing to turn an idea
into brick and mortar. He hopes the museum will erase the
myths characterizing Indians as ``savages that were raping
and pillaging.'' The life, languages, literature, history
and arts of the native people of the Western Hemisphere
will be the focus of every exhibit.
Sen. Campbell, who once made his living as a designer of
Indian jewelry, will showcase some of his own artwork in
an opening show that will continue for six months.
When he first ran for Congress in 1986, Sen. Campbell
emphasized that his political career would be about non-
Indian issues as much as it would be about Indian issues.
Today, the 71-year-old Cheyenne tribal chief cites
numerous accomplishments that have nothing to do with that
background and everything to do with making a difference,
including doing his best to protect Arkansas River water
from the devastating water diversions by Aurora and
Colorado Springs, the funding of bullet-proof vests for
the nation's police officers, pushing for a national law
enforcement museum and upgrading two Colorado
attractions--the Great Sand Dunes and the Black Canyon of
the Gunnison--to national park status.
Today, he will stand just north of the site where the
Indian Removal Act of 1830 was signed--``where the museum
now sits''--and address a crowd expected to include
thousands of fellow American Indians. The irony of putting
the museum on the site where Congress acted to forcibly
relocate Indians will make the day all the sweeter.
Sen. Campbell is retiring from Congress the end of this
year. The museum he shepherded to reality will in some
small measure be a tribute to this adopted Coloradan.
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time
as I may consume. S. 2508, authored by our distinguished
Senate colleague, Mr. Domenici, redesignates the reservoir
known as the Ridges Basin Reservoir located on Basin
Creek, a tributary of the Animas River in Colorado, as
Lake Nighthorse. The reservoir is being constructed as a
provision of the Colorado Ute Indian Water Settlement Act
of 1988. This designation will honor the service of
retiring Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell who was
instrumental in the enactment of this act among many
others important to the western United States during his
long career in public service.
I urge the adoption of the bill.