Former U.S. Senator and Democratic presidential candidate Fred Harris has died at the age of 94.
Fred Harris noted for his meaningful influence on party reforms and activism, passed away due to natural causes, CBS News reported.
Fred Harris' political journey began in Oklahoma where he served firstly in the state Senate and later ascended to the national platform, winning his U.S. Senate seat in 1964. His career expanded over decades, during which he remained a persistent voice for civil rights and economic equality.
In 1971, Fred Harris made his first venture into national politics, seeking the Democratic nomination for the presidency. Despite not gaining the nomination, he ran again in 1976, although his bid was once more unsuccessful.
Off the campaign trail, his commitment to reforming the Democratic Party marked a significant phase of his career, particularly during his tenure as the chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Fred Harris implemented critical changes that ensured better representation of women and minorities within the Democratic Party. His efforts transformed the party’s structure and influenced its national impact.
Throughout his tenure, Fred Harris was a strong advocate for social justice issues, working diligently on anti-poverty programs and pushing for civil rights. His participation in the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders led to a pivotal report in 1968 on racial and economic disparities in America—a subject he continued to address well into his later years.
In sharing his thoughts, Fred Harris described the profound impact of 1968 on his life, citing the assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy, along with turbulent political events, as deeply disheartening experiences that influenced his views on political reform and social justice.
Discussing the shifts he observed within the political landscape over the years, Fred Harris highlighted the increasing complexity of political conventions, suggesting a more streamlined approach to their execution and purpose.
After his political career, Fred Harris dedicated his life to educating future leaders as a political science professor at the University of New Mexico and contributed to literature by writing a variety of books, including a mystery novel. His migration to New Mexico in 1976 marked a new chapter that continued his engagement in academic and social issues.
Margaret Elliston, Harris' wife since 1983, fondly recalled her husband's peaceful passing and celebrated his enduring legacy, noting that "Fred Harris passed peacefully early this morning of natural causes. He was 94. He was a wonderful and beloved man. His memory is a blessing." Her words underscore the profound personal and professional impact Fred Harris had on those around him.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and Senator Martin Heinrich also paid tribute to Harris, recognizing his extensive contributions to their state and the nation at large. They emphasized his status as a significant figure in both politics and academia and highlighted his lifelong dedication to serving the underrepresented and tackling ingrained social issues.
Through all stages of his life, Fred Harris remained guided by principles of equality and community service, leaving behind a robust legacy in national politics and civil rights advocacy. His intellectual and legislative contributions have had lasting effects, highlighting him as a statesman who deeply cared about America's socio-economic landscape and its people.
