Inhofe, a long-serving Republican senator, died peacefully surrounded by his family after a sudden illness.
According to Fox News, James Mountain Inhofe, who represented Oklahoma in the U.S. Senate from 1994 until his retirement in 2023, died on Tuesday.
He had developed a sudden and unexpected illness around the Fourth of July holiday and passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife Kay, his children, and other family members. Further details about his passing were not immediately available.
Inhofe was a prominent figure in Oklahoma politics and national defense. He started his congressional career in the House of Representatives in 1987 before being elected to the Senate in 1994. During his tenure, Inhofe served as the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, where he was known for his strong support of the military.
Prior to his time in Congress, Inhofe served as the mayor of Tulsa, Oklahoma, from 1978 to 1984. He also had a brief stint in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1956 and worked as the president of the Quaker Life Insurance Company before entering politics.
Rep. Kevin Hern, R-Okla., paid tribute to Inhofe, calling him a "dear friend and mentor, a titan in Oklahoma, and a highly effective leader in D.C." Hern also mentioned that he and his wife Tammy were keeping Inhofe's family in their prayers. Inhofe's commitment to public service was evident throughout his life, both in uniform and in the halls of Congress.
"Jim spent his life in service to his country, both in uniform and in the halls of Congress. He will always be remembered as a fighter, especially for our military service members."
Inhofe's political career spanned over three decades, marked by his dedication to national defense and his conservative values. He was photographed speaking to reporters on Capitol Hill in April 2021, demonstrating his active involvement in legislative matters even toward the end of his career.
One notable image from September 2015 shows Inhofe with the late Sen. John McCain during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, highlighting his influential role in military affairs.
Throughout his career, Inhofe was known for his strong opinions and willingness to stand by his convictions. His leadership and influence were felt not only in Oklahoma but also on a national level, where he played a significant role in shaping defense policy.
Inhofe's impact extended beyond his political achievements. As the longest-serving senator in Oklahoma's history, his contributions to the state were substantial. He worked tirelessly for his constituents and was a recognizable figure in Oklahoma politics. His tenure as mayor of Tulsa also left a lasting mark on the community, where he implemented several key initiatives.
In his personal life, Inhofe was a family man. He passed away surrounded by his loved ones, which included his wife Kay and their children. His commitment to family and faith was evident throughout his life, and he remained a respected figure in both his personal and professional circles.
The news of Inhofe's passing has prompted reflections on his long and storied career. His contributions to national defense and his leadership in the Senate will be remembered by many. Inhofe's dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to his principles made him a notable figure in American politics. As the state of Oklahoma mourns the loss of its longest-serving senator, many will reflect on his legacy and the impact he had on both the state and the nation. Inhofe's life and career serve as a testament to his dedication to his country and his constituents.
