A Senator Turned Professor: Remembering Fred Harris

Fred Harris, a prominent figure in both politics and academia, passed away at the age of 94. Serving as a U. S. senator from Oklahoma for two terms, Harris made a significant impact on American politics. His tenure spanned from 1964 to 1973, during which he also chaired the Democratic National Committee in 1969. After his political career, Harris moved to New Mexico, taking on the role of a political science professor at the University of New Mexico (UNM). In 2006, a unique program known as the Fred Harris U. S. Congressional Internship was established in partnership with UNM. This program offers students an inside look at how Washington, D. C. , operates, a chance many still seize today.

Harris's legacy extended beyond his political career. He was a strong advocate for Native American rights. One of his notable achievements was sponsoring legislation that helped restore land to the Taos Pueblo, which had been seized during Theodore Roosevelt's presidency. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham praised Harris, stating, "His work over many decades has had a positive impact on New Mexico and the entire nation. " Harris's efforts in both politics and education have left a lasting impression, making him a respected figure in his fields.

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