Campbell remembered as independent politician

Politics
Campbell remembered as independent politician
Thursday, March 4, 2004

Friends, colleagues and even foes say the retirement of Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colo.) is a loss for American politics.

In the Capitol, Campbell is known for his unique image. He wears a ponytail, bolo ties, cowboy boots and drove around in a Harley. At home, he is just one of the guys, neighbors said.

But Campbell is also known for his independent thinking. When he was a Democrat, he didn't always side with his party. As a Republican, he often disagrees with the administration, particularly when it comes to Indian issues.

One of Campbell's major achievements was to settle the water rights of Ute tribes. He lives on the Southern Ute Reservation.

Before he leaves, Campbell said he would help the Cheyenne tribes, of which he is a member, receive trust land status for the Sand Creek Massacre site in Colorado. He said he would work to resolve the Cobell Indian trust fund lawsuit.

Campbell's office is currently facing an investigation into an alleged kickback by his former chief of staff. He has asked the Senate Ethics Committee to look into the charges.

With Campbell (R-Colo.) out of the race, the battle over which party controls the Senate is drawing speculation over who will seek the open seat. Some Democrats and Republicans say Gov. Bill Owens, a Republican might run. Owens has two more years left in his second and final term.

Several Republicans said they were considering a campaign, including Reps. Tom Tancredo, Bob Beauprez, Marilyn Musgrave and Scott McInnis. On the Democrat side, Rep. Mark Udall is said to be mulling a run.

The Senate is currently split 51 to 48 in favor of Republicans. If a Democrat is elected to the White House, the Democrats would need a net change of one seat to gain control. If President Bush is re-elected, they would need two seats.