New Mexico's Democratic leaders remember Fred Harris

Nicole Maxwell, New Mexico Political Report

This story was originally published by New Mexico Political Report.

Former U.S. Senator Fred Harris, a Democrat originally from Walters, Oklahoma, passed away Saturday at his home in Corrales at age 94.

He moved to New Mexico in 1976 and was a political science professor at the University of New Mexico.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my longtime friend Fred Harris today. Sen. Harris was a towering presence in politics and in academia, and his work over many decades improved New Mexico and the nation,” Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said in a press release. 

Harris was a two-term U.S. Senator representing Oklahoma and was Democratic National Committee chairman. 

Once he moved to New Mexico, Harris became a large part of the local progressive and Democratic political community.

“A passionate champion of Native American rights, Sen. Harris sponsored legislation signed into law by President Richard Nixon that restored land to Taos Pueblo seized by President Theodore Roosevelt and designated as the Carson National Forest early in the 20th century,” Lujan Grisham said.

While at UNM, Harris set up a congressional internship program.

“As Democratic National Committee Chair, US Senator, activist, author, mentor, and so much more, Democrats everywhere will remember Fred for his unparalleled integrity and as a pioneer for instituting core progressive values of equity and opportunity for prosperity as core tenets of our party,” Democratic Party of New Mexico Chairwoman Jessica Velasquez said in a press release. “The Democratic Party of New Mexico’s thoughts are with his wife, past DPNM Chair Marg Elliston, the rest of his family, and many friends. Fred Harris’ memory will inspire New Mexico Democrats to help others whenever we can and continue fighting for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.”

Harris was a presidential candidate in 1972 and 1976 and was a delegate to 14 Democratic National Conventions including this year’s convention in Chicago.

“I am devastated to learn of the passing of U.S. Senator Fred Harris, a tireless and unyielding hero in our community who spent his career dedicated to fighting for democracy and justice,” U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, a Democrat representing New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District, said in a press release.  “As a dear friend, colleague, and hero, he will be deeply missed and leave a hole in our community that can never be replaced. His legacy will live on in all of the young people that he inspired and mentored on their way to becoming leaders in the ongoing fight for justice.”

U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez also acknowledged Harris' passing and his profound contributions to the state of New Mexico.

"I'm saddened by the passing of Fred Harris, a friend & dedicated public servant," Vasquez shared on X. "He has paved the way for many New Mexicans to represent our state in Washington (and) follow in his footsteps. My condolences to his family (and) those touched by his leadership."

Javier Martinez, speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives, praised the late senator's work for tribal sovereignty and civil rights.

“Throughout his long, distinguished career, Senator Fred Harris was guided by a strong moral compass," Martinez said. "In the United States Senate, he was a fearless champion of civil rights, tribal sovereignty, and working people. Later, as a political science professor at the University of New Mexico and a prolific author, he continued to push for fairness, human rights, and equality.  

"He also became deeply involved in New Mexico politics, supporting many more champions of Democratic values to run for elected office themselves. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of service above self. My heart goes out to his entire family, and all who knew and loved Fred. He will be sorely missed at Democratic Party functions and at the Barelas Athletic Club, of which he was a founding member."

Nicole Maxwell is a reporter for New Mexico Political Report. Damien Willis of Organ Mountain News contributed to this report.