Oklahoma elected leaders react to the death of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe

Former United States Senator Jim Inhofe has passed away at the age of 89.

Over the course of his political career, Inhofe served in the Oklahoma State Senate, as the Mayor of Tulsa, in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate.

Several Oklahoma elected officials released statements on Inhofe’s passing.

U.S. Senator James Lankford

“Cindy and I are deeply saddened about the loss of Oklahoma’s favorite son, Senator Jim Inhofe. We grieve along with our state and nation the loss of a true patriot for our American values and way of life. Jim was an institution in the Senate. He kept his relationship with Jesus, his family, and all Oklahomans as his priority. His passion for our military, aviation, energy, infrastructure, Africa, and our personal freedom was vital for our state and our nation. He was a true legend and a force to be reckoned with. Cindy and I pray along with his wife, Kay, their children, grandchildren, friends, and fellow Oklahomans for peace and comfort as they walk through this difficult season.” -Senator James Lankford

U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin

“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.” -Senator Markwayne Mullin

U.S. Representative Kevin Hern

“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.” -Representative Kevin Hern

U.S. Representative Josh Brecheen

“I am very sad to hear of the passing of former Oklahoma United States Senator Jim Inhofe. Jim and his family devoted nearly sixty years of public service for the people of Oklahoma. May the peace that only the Lord can provide be with the Inhofe family during this difficult time.” -Representative Josh Brecheen

U.S. Representative Frank Lucas

“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.” -Representative Frank Lucas

U.S. Representative Tom Cole

“I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of my friend and former colleague, Senator Jim Inhofe. Jim was a true patriot, as he spent decades serving our great nation and state of Oklahoma in the United States Army, Oklahoma state legislature, United States House of Representatives, United States Senate, and as the Mayor of Tulsa. Throughout his time as a public servant, he fought passionately for our military, infrastructure, and strong conversative values. 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.” -Representative Tom Cole

U.S. Representative Stephanie Bice

“Today, Oklahoma mourns the loss of a true champion for our state with the passing of Senator Jim Inhofe. From fighting for our military to focusing on transportation infrastructure, Jim was a true servant for all Oklahomans. It is a profound loss, and I am praying for his wife Kay and the entire Inhofe family.” -Representative Stephanie Bice

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt

“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

Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Senator James Mountain Inhofe. Jim Inhofe dedicated his life to public service and led with courage and tenacity. I will forever be indebted to him for giving me my first job in politics and for his wise counsel over the years. He had an unwavering commitment to his family, our state, and our country and built a mountain of a legacy that will never be forgotten. Lisa and I offer our condolences to Kay and the rest of his loved ones during this difficult time.” -Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell

Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum

“While his tenure as the longest-serving United States Senator in Oklahoma history reserves his rightful place in the record books, Jim Inhofe was also one of Tulsa’s most accomplished mayors. He created the first city sales tax for capital improvements - the Third Penny - which has funded billions in street and infrastructure enhancements over the last half century. He modernized our trash system, established our 9-1-1 call system, and created our Sister Cities program that went on to build cultural ties between our city and nearly every continent around the world. My thoughts today are with Kay and the entire extended Inhofe family.” - Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum