Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell Proved Principles Define a Leader

True leadership means standing by your convictions no matter the cost.

It was a genuine pleasure to work with Ben Nighthorse Campbell during my time as communications director at the Indian Gaming Association. I helped promote his beautiful jewelry. He was always there to ensure fair business relationships in Indian Country. It was an absolute honor for him to write me a recommendation letter to serve in a presidential administration. He was a constant reminder that Native people can do amazing things! While he has passed away this year, his impact on our nation is timeless.

Character Counts More Than Politics

He famously switched to the Republican Party in 1995 because he refused to compromise his values for a political label. He was a staunch fiscal conservative who fought for a balanced budget because he knew we cannot mortgage our children’s future to federal debt. His principles never changed even when the political winds shifted in Washington, DC. He was a Korean War veteran and an Olympian who applied that same discipline to defending the Constitution. He showed the establishment that a conservative voice is vital for our communities!

Sovereignty is the Foundation of Freedom

Sovereignty was the bedrock of his service. Senator Campbell understood that true independence comes from economic self-determination rather than government reliance. He staunchly defended the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act because he saw it as a vital engine that allowed tribes to build their own schools, hospitals, and infrastructure without asking for permission. He established the National Museum of the American Indian and corrected history at the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument to ensure our stories are told with honor.

A Warrior Returns Home

Ben Nighthorse Campbell has gone home. He leaves a blueprint of dignity. We must continue his fight.

I really appreciate this eulogy given to us by his daughter here: the-journal.com