Fred Harris, a notable figure in American politics and a former U.S. Senator from Oklahoma, passed away at the age of 94. His wife, Margaret Elliston, shared the sad news, stating that he died peacefully of natural causes in a hospital in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Harris had a long and impactful political career beginning with his election to the Oklahoma State Senate in 1956. Following eight years of service at the state level, he made his mark on national politics by winning a Senate seat in 1964 to fill a vacancy left by the late Senator Robert S. Kerr.
Throughout his career, Harris was known for his populist and progressive views. He often expressed concerns about the concentration of power among a few elites and advocated for policies aimed at supporting the middle and working classes. His involvement in the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, appointed to investigate urban unrest in the late 1960s, was one of the key highlights of his Senate career.
In 1976, Harris sought the Democratic presidential nomination but faced a challenging campaign, ultimately stepping back as Jimmy Carter emerged as the nominee. After his time in the Senate, he transitioned to academia, becoming a professor of political science at the University of New Mexico, where he wrote extensively on politics and governance.
Harris was born on November 13, 1930, in a modest farmhouse in Oklahoma, where he grew up working on his family’s farm. His journey took him from those humble beginnings to significant political achievements, providing a testament to his commitment to serving the public.
He had three children with his first wife, LaDonna Crawford, and later married Margaret Elliston in 1983. Harris leaves behind a legacy of public service and dedication to addressing the issues that affect everyday Americans.
