Former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe passes away at 89

“Sarah and I are saddened by the news of the passing of Senator Inhofe and our hearts go out to Kay, their children and grandchildren. Jim was a generational Oklahoman who relentlessly championed our veterans, never wavered in protecting our values, and a firm believer in the American Dream. Jim will be remembered as a true statesman and public servant— and a fighter for Oklahoma. In honor of his memory and service, I’m ordering all flags on state property to be flown at half-staff until tomorrow evening.”

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt (R)

“Senator Jim Inhofe was a dear friend and mentor, a titan in Oklahoma, and a highly effective leader in DC,” said Rep. Hern. “Tammy and I are keeping Kay and the rest of the Inhofe family in our prayers. 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. Jim’s legacy of service, leadership, and faith reflect the Oklahoma Standard and the pride he held in his work. Along with the family, friends, and many Oklahomans who knew and loved him, I mourn the loss of a great man.”

U.S. Representative Kevin Hern, R, OK-01

“Senator Inhofe was a resolute Republican who served his state and nation for nearly six decades in various roles,” Pro Tem Treat said. “Unwavering in his beliefs and conservative values, he championed many causes during his career, including his support for the military, national defense and infrastructure. His dedication and influence in shaping policies in both Oklahoma and on a national level have left a lasting impact. My wife Maressa and I send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family and many friends.”

Oklahoma Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City

“Today, Oklahoma and the entire country mourn the loss of Senator Jim Inhofe.

The true embodiment of a public servant, Jim spent five decades faithfully serving the people of Oklahoma with the utmost integrity and purpose. His calling to do so began in the Oklahoma Legislature and later as the mayor of Tulsa, where he proved to be a selfless steward of his community.

His long career in the United States House and Senate serves as a testament to his strong moral compass and innate desire to better his home state. From being a larger-than-life advocate for Oklahoma’s military installations to improving infrastructure across the state, Jim Inhofe has made an impact on Oklahomans that will be felt for generations. “Watching and learning under his leadership has only strengthened my sense of duty, and I have always used his character as a guidepost in my endeavors. Lynda and I join Oklahomans everywhere in mourning this great loss and praying for his family.”

Congressman Frank Lucas, R, OK-03

Senator Inhofe’s passing is a devastating loss. For fifty years, he served as my friend, my leader, and my mentor. I will miss him dearly, as will all of Oklahoma and every man and woman who wears the uniform of the United States. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kay, their children, grandchildren, friends, colleagues, and all Oklahomans who admired Senator Inhofe. May he rest in peace,”.

Congressman Tom Cole R, OK-04

“It’s fitting that Senator Jim Inhofe’s middle name was Mountain — because that’s exactly what he was, not just for our state, but for the nation,

Senator Inhofe’s tenacity and enduring love for Oklahoma made him a titan in the Senate. He was a tireless advocate, and a wonderful friend, father, husband, and grandfather. While I will never be able to fill his shoes, Jim’s spirit, passion, and love of country will continue to inspire me each and every day. Our prayers are with Kay, his former staff, and the entire Inhofe family.

How do you fill the shoes of a gentlemen whose middle name is Mountain? How fitting of that, Senator James Mountain Inhofe. He was a mountain of a man, he blazed his own trail, he was full of grit and tenacity.”

U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin, R-OK

“There’s probably no one in our recent history that has done more for Oklahoma than Jim Inhofe. “He brought almost $1,000,000,000 in Oklahoma just for the highway system.”

Senator Roger Thompson, (R) Okemah

“Jim Inhofe was a man of honesty, he was a man of integrity and I guarantee you he wasn’t a hypocrite. He told you exactly what he thought and he stuck with it.

America can take a lesson from that. He fought hard, but he always did it in a cheerful way, a respectful way, a positive way, an optimistic way. That’s the greatness of Jim Inhofe.”

Mike Turpen, former Oklahoma Attorney General