Campbell doesn't want to end like a Hollywood stunt

Politics
Campbell doesn't want to end like a Hollywood stunt
Friday, March 5, 2004

Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colo.) is glad to be getting out of politics. After 22 years, he says his colorful image as the only American Indian in the Senate may have gotten in the way of his message.

"I'd be giving a speech on economic recovery and someone would raise their hand and ask: 'Did you ride the bike today?' And I'd think: 'What the hell is the matter with you?"' he told The Denver Post.

Campbell, a member of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe of Montana, once dressed up in full regalia for a ceremony to break ground on the new National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, which he helped create. He told the paper he was considering dressing up again for his last day in the Senate.

"But I won't do it if it will look like some Hollywood stunt," he said.

Campbell has about $1.3 million in campaign contributions, according to current reports on the Federal Election Commission website. Last week, he held a fundraiser during the National Congress of American Indians winter session. He could end up returning the money to the donors.

He also could give it to other candidates. He said he would help the Republicans this election year. One of those stepping as his possible replacement is Colorado Gov. Bill Owens (R), who said he is considering a run.

Campbell told The Post that he wouldn't mind sitting on the U.S. Olympic Committee once he retires. When rumors in Washington surfaced that he wanted the post, his campaign denied them and repeatedly said he was running for re-election.