Fred Harris, former Oklahoma senator and presidential hopeful, dies at 94

Fred Harris, a former Oklahoma senator and presidential hopeful, passed away at the age of 94. Harris, who was known for his progressive views and unwavering commitment to civil rights, served in the U.S. Senate from 1964 to 1973. He was also a candidate for the Democratic nomination for president in 1972.

Harris was born in Walters, Oklahoma in 1930. He attended the University of Oklahoma and later earned a law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. He began his political career in the Oklahoma Senate, where he served from 1956 to 1964 before being elected to the U.S. Senate.

During his time in the Senate, Harris was a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice. He co-chaired the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, also known as the Kerner Commission, which investigated the causes of race riots in the 1960s. The commission’s report, which Harris helped write, highlighted systemic racism and inequality as root causes of the unrest.

In 1972, Harris launched a bid for the Democratic presidential nomination, running on a platform that included a guaranteed minimum income for all Americans and an end to the Vietnam War. Although he ultimately did not secure the nomination, Harris’s campaign was seen as a bold and progressive challenge to the political establishment.

After leaving the Senate, Harris continued to be active in politics and public service. He served as chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 1969 to 1970 and later worked as a professor of political science at the University of New Mexico.

Harris’s legacy as a champion for civil rights and social justice lives on, inspiring a new generation of activists and leaders. His commitment to fighting for equality and fairness for all Americans will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

In a statement following Harris’s passing, his family remembered him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, as well as a tireless advocate for the causes he believed in. Fred Harris leaves behind a lasting legacy of courage, compassion, and dedication to making the world a better place. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and were touched by his work.