Longest-Serving Oklahoma Senator James Inhofe Dies at 89; State Mourns Political Icon
July 9, 2024Former 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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Sources
The New York Times • Jul 9, 2024
James M. Inhofe, Senator Who Denied Climate Change, Dies at 89The Guardian • Jul 9, 2024
James Inhofe, former Republican senator who called climate change a ‘hoax’, dies aged 89The Washington Post • Jul 9, 2024
James Inhofe, Oklahoma senator and climate change denier, dies at 89Time • Jul 9, 2024
Former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe Dies at 89