Former Republican Oklahoma Sen. Jim Inhofe died Tuesday at the age of 89, sources close to his family report.
Inhofe served as the Tulsa mayor, in the House from 1987-1994 and in the Senate from 1994-2023, making him the longest-serving U.S. senator from Oklahoma.
According to reports, Inhofe had a sudden, unexpected illness over the holiday and died at 4:48am Tuesday morning with his wife Kay holding his hand. He was reportedly surrounded by his kids and other members of his family.
Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) participates in a mock swearing-in for the 117th Congress with Vice President Mike Pence, as his wife Kay Inhofe holds a bible, in the Old Senate Chambers at the U.S. Capitol Building January 3, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch-Pool/Getty Images)
Inhofe also served in the army for three years and was a pilot.
Republican Oklahoma Rep. Kevin Hern released a statement following his death.
“Senator Jim Inhofe was a dear friend and mentor, a titan in Oklahoma, and a highly effective leader in DC,” Hern said. “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.”
(This is a developing story. More information will be added as it becomes available.)
