Fred Harris, a former U.S. senator from Oklahoma, presidential hopeful, and populist who advocated for Democratic Party reforms in the 1960s, passed away at the age of 94 on Saturday. His wife, Margaret Elliston, confirmed his death to The Associated Press. While the exact location of his passing was not disclosed, Harris had been residing in New Mexico since 1976 and was a resident of Corrales at the time of his death.
Elliston shared in a text message, “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.”
Harris served eight years in the Senate, initially winning in 1964 to fill a vacancy, and later made an unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 1976.
During his tenure as the chairman of the Democratic National Committee in 1969 and 1970, Harris played a key role in reconciling the party following the turbulent 1968 national convention in Chicago, marked by clashes between protesters and police.
Following his departure from the presidential race in 1976, Harris relocated to New Mexico and became a political science professor at the University of New Mexico. He authored and edited numerous books, predominantly focusing on politics and Congress. In 1999, he diversified his writing by delving into the mystery genre with a novel set in Depression-era Oklahoma.
Throughout his political career, Harris was a prominent advocate for civil rights and anti-poverty initiatives. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham commended his contributions to the state and the nation, emphasizing his decency, honor, and leadership qualities.
Reflecting on his involvement in the 1968 presidential campaign of Hubert Humphrey, Harris expressed regret over the handling of the convention and the delayed stance on the Vietnam War issue. Despite the setbacks, Harris continued to champion reforms in the selection of delegates and presidential nominees within the Democratic Party.
Born on November 13, 1930, in a humble farmhouse in Oklahoma, Harris overcame early hardships to pursue a career in law and politics. From his beginnings as a farm worker to his election to the Oklahoma state Senate and later the U.S. Senate, Harris remained dedicated to public service.
Married twice, first to LaDonna Vita Crawford and then to Margaret Elliston, Harris leaves behind a legacy of political activism and commitment to progressive ideals. His impact on American politics and his advocacy for social justice will be remembered for years to come.
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