Ben Nighthorse Campbell

Campbell is one of only four Native Americans in U.S. history to serve in the United States Senate. On Monday, April 13, 2026, a gathering in Ignacio drew hundreds to celebrate Campbell's unusual life trajectory.

Campbell was the first Native American to chair the Committee on Indian Affairs and the only Native American to serve in the Senate during his two terms. Campbell and his wife have lived on a ranch on the Southern Ute reservation since 1978.