Longest-Serving Oklahoma Senator James Inhofe Dies at 89; State Mourns Political Icon

July 9, 2024
Longest-Serving Oklahoma Senator James Inhofe Dies at 89; State Mourns Political Icon
  • Former U.S. Senator James M. Inhofe, the longest-serving senator in Oklahoma's history, has passed away at 89 in Tulsa after suffering a stroke.

  • Inhofe was a staunch conservative known for his opposition to climate change and same-sex marriage, and his support for growing the U.S. military and former President Donald Trump.

  • Despite his climate change skepticism, he collaborated across the aisle on infrastructure and chemicals legislation, and broke with his party to certify Joe Biden's election win.

  • Inhofe's influence on environmental policies, including climate change denial, had a lasting impact, shaping policies on air pollution, water, and chemical regulation.

  • Governor Kevin Stitt has ordered flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Inhofe, with tributes pouring in from colleagues such as Rep. Kevin Hern, Sen. Mitch McConnell, and Sen. Lindsey Graham.

  • Funeral arrangements are pending as the state mourns the loss of a political icon survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

  • The story is still developing, with further updates expected.

Summary based on 24 sources


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