Fred Harris, a former US senator from Oklahoma and presidential hopeful, has passed away at the age of 94. He was a champion of Democratic Party reforms and a fierce advocate for the downtrodden. Harris had a long and distinguished career in politics, serving in the Oklahoma state Senate and as chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Early Life and Education
Fred Harris was born on November 13, 1930, in a two-room farmhouse near Walters, Oklahoma. He grew up working on the farm and later attended the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1952, majoring in political science and history.
Career
Harris began his career in politics by winning election to the Oklahoma state Senate in 1956, serving for eight years. In 1964, he launched his career in national politics, running for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Sen. Robert S. Kerr. Harris won the Democratic nomination and went on to defeat Charles “Bud” Wilkinson, a sports legend and Oklahoma University football coach.
Presidential Campaigns
In 1968, Harris served as co-chairman of the presidential campaign of Hubert Humphrey. Although they narrowly lost to Richard Nixon, Harris remained committed to his progressive values. He later became chairman of the Democratic National Committee in 1969 and 1970, helping to heal party wounds after the tumultuous national convention in 1968.
Later Life
Harris moved to New Mexico in 1976 and became a political science professor at the University of New Mexico. He wrote and edited over a dozen books, mostly on politics and Congress.
Legacy
Fred Harris was a champion of Democratic Party reforms and a fierce advocate for the downtrodden. His legacy extends beyond politics, as he co-founded the Kerner Commission’s report on civil disorders and later co-wrote a report concluding that the commission’s prophecy had come to pass.
Key Takeaways
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Fred Harris was born on November 13, 1930, in Oklahoma.
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He served eight years in the Oklahoma state Senate and later won election to the U.S. Senate in 1964.
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Harris co-chaired the presidential campaign of Hubert Humphrey in 1968.
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As chairman of the Democratic National Committee, he helped heal party wounds after the tumultuous national convention in 1968.
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Harris was a champion of Democratic Party reforms and a fierce advocate for the downtrodden.
Death
Harris died peacefully on November 23, 2024, at the age of 94, due to natural causes. His wife, Margaret Elliston, confirmed his passing.
