DNC Chair Jaime Harrison released the following statement on the passing of Fred Harris:

“It is with great sadness and fond memories that we mourn the loss of a change-maker in the Senate, a trailblazing DNC Chair, and a champion for the American people, Fred Harris. 

“Throughout his lifetime of work, Senator Harris was a dedicated public servant and meaningful advocate for working people. As Chair, he brought the party together after the 1968 convention and opened up the door for women and minorities to serve as delegates. He was a leading voice in the civil rights movement and fought for anti-poverty programs, returning land to Native tribes, and the people of his beloved Oklahoma. To his students at the University of New Mexico, he was known as a thoughtful and warm-hearted professor. His legacy lives on in his books, his work on behalf of our party, and the many lives he touched.

“Senator Harris led with integrity, honesty, and good humor. Through his kindness, thoughtfulness, and vision for change, he exemplified our party values. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones, and we are thinking of them during this time. Fred Harris will be dearly missed. Rest in peace, Senator.”