Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Rodd Moesel issued the following statement after learning of the passing of Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe:
“Oklahoma Farm Bureau members were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sen. Jim Inhofe. Sen. Inhofe was a remarkable leader and wonderful friend to agriculture and rural Oklahoma since his time in the state legislature more than 50 years ago.
“During his tenure in the U.S. Senate, Sen. Inhofe was awarded the American Farm Bureau Golden Plow Award, AFBF’s Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, and OKFB’s Distinguished Service Award – the highest honors from both organizations. His commitment to serving his fellow Oklahomans through his time in both the U.S. House and Senate leaves a lasting legacy for years to come, and we are forever grateful for his service to Oklahoma agriculture. “Sen. Inhofe will be greatly missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Kay, and his family.”
Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association Executive Vice President Michael Kelsey, “OCA mourns the loss of a great friend and advocate for Oklahoma agriculture, Senator James Mountain Inhofe. Senator Inhofe promoted and protected Oklahoma farmers and ranchers in so many arenas over his long and productive career. Perhaps it was because he could see, as he flew his plane over Oklahoma, the beauty and wonder of rural Oklahoma and he knew that farmers and ranchers work daily to take care of and improve the land. OCA extends our deepest sympathies and heartfelt thoughts to the Inhofe family.”
Following is a statement from Oklahoma Grain & Feed Association CEO and Oklahoma State Regent for Higher Education Jeff Hickman, former Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, on the passing of U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe:
“Sen. Inhofe loved Oklahoma – all of it. He was proud to represent our entire state and believed the only way to truly do that was to spend as much time as he could with Oklahomans in communities throughout the state, particularly in rural Oklahoma. He frequently held regular town hall meetings in hundreds of cities and towns, and when disaster would strike, be it floods, wildfires, tornadoes or other events which impacted the people of our state, Sen. Inhofe showed up again to learn how he could help, what was needed so he could advocate with federal agencies, and most importantly, to offer a hug or a shoulder to cry on for the people of Oklahoma about whom he cared so deeply. He leaves a legacy in transportation and commerce, agriculture, research and higher education, our military installations and in many other areas which will impact Oklahoma for generations.”
American Farmers & Ranchers Cooperative President Scott Blubaugh:“Sen. Jim Inhofe encouraged economic stability for rural parts of our state as a bulldog for Oklahoma’s military bases and our veterans. He also fought for much needed investments in rural roads and bridges and served as a watchdog for regulatory overreach throughout the country. He was a great friend to Oklahoma and will be missed for years to come.”
Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement today after the passing of Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe:
“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 Tom Cole released the following statement after hearing that former Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe passed away:
“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,” said Congressman Cole.
“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,” said Congressman Cole.
Sen. Blake Cowboy Stephens, R-Tahlequah, released the following statement after the passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Senator Inhofe. He was truly a blessing to our state and dedicated his life to serving others, from his military service to his time on Capitol Hill. Senator Inhofe will be truly missed, but his legacy of service to our state and nation will live on. My thoughts and prayers remain with his wife, children, grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him.”
Senator James Lankford (R-OK) released the following statement after the announcement of the passing of Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe, a veteran, patriot, family man, Jesus follower, Mayor of Tulsa, Congressman for the First District of Oklahoma, and long-time United States Senator:
“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.”
State Treasurer Todd Russ: “A beloved and dedicated servant of Oklahoma, “Senator Inhofe was not only a remarkable leader but also a dear friend and mentor. His dedication to our state and its people was unparalleled. He fought tirelessly for Oklahoma, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations,” shared Treasurer Russ. “My thoughts and prayers are with Senator Inhofe’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life and service. From 2 Timothy 4:7-8: ‘I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing’.”
Congressman Josh Brecheen issued the following statement after the passing of former United States Senator Jim Inhofe.
“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,” said Congressman Josh Brecheen.
Congresswoman Stephanie Bice released the following statement on the passing of Senator Inhofe:
“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.”
House Majority Floor Leader Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City, on Tuesday commented on the death of longtime former U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe.
“Few have done more than James Mountain Inhofe for the people of Oklahoma. From supporting countless miles of infrastructure development, standing up for Oklahoma farmers and ranchers, his commitment to our men and women in uniform, or his unwavering commitment to conservative values, and so much more, Oklahoma lost an irreplaceable legend.”
Senator Tom Woods, R-Westville, today released the following statement after the passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe.
“We lost a true legend today with the passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe,” Sen. Woods said. “His profound dedication to our state and nation were unmatched. Sen. Inhofe’s resiliency led to many remarkable achievements. Throughout his tenure, Senator Inhofe was known for his staunch advocacy for national defense, infrastructure development and conservative values. As we mourn the loss of Senator Inhofe, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the enduring contributions he made to our country. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, today released the following statement on the passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe.
“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.”
Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, issued a statement regarding the sudden passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe this morning:
“Sen. Jim Inhofe was someone who truly lived up to his middle name of Mountain. A giant in Oklahoma and American politics, his steadfast leadership helped shape the course of our state and nation for decades. His contributions to our nation’s military and aviation infrastructure will benefit our country for generations to come, and his commitment to his conservative values was unwavering. There are few who have served in the U.S. Senate who were as well-respected and revered as Sen. Inhofe, and we truly will not see his like again. My condolences go out to his family during this extremely difficult time.”
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) delivered his maiden speech on the U.S. Senate floor to honor the life and legacy of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe who passed away earlier this morning. “This is my first time to speak, and it comes at an occasion that is the right time to speak. A gentleman that I took great pride in knowing, who I refer to quite often a grandfather, Senator Jim Inhofe. He passed away unfortunately this morning.” How do you describe Jim Inhofe? How do you describe his family, how do you describe Miss Kay who the first time I ever met her made me feel as comfortable as I was her own child?”
“Senator Inhofe would often take me by the hand, *literally* and say, “listen to me son.” Over time, he became quite a mentor of mine. I get asked all the time, “how do you plan on filling the shoes of Senator Inhofe?” and I say, “How do you fill the shoes of a gentleman whose middle name was Mountain?” How fitting was that? A Senator whose name was James Mountain Inhofe. He was a mountain of a man. He blazed his own trail. He was full of grit and tenacity. You always knew where he stood. I never doubted what his thoughts were.”
“It saddens me deeply to know that today on this Earth there is less one gentleman that I think we all learned from. Everybody in this chamber that knew James, or Senator Inhofe, knew the guy as a friend. You knew he was someone you could trust.”
“He allowed me to change my focus, from my understanding that all the outside distractions that can take place…that can all easily go away if you stay focused on what you were elected to do which is serve the great state of Oklahoma. Just focus on constituent service. Just focus on building things for the state…All he did everyday was work hard for Oklahoma, and I am grateful to get to know him.”
“If you knew Jim, or Senator Inhofe, he was always going home. Miss Kay was his priority…his kids loved him, his wife loved him, his grandkids loved him.”
“He blazed a trail I can build a highway on. And I have full intentions of doing that.”
House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, , issued the following statement after the passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe.
“My condolences go out to the family and friends of Senator Jim Inhofe. He was a tenacious leader, state representative, and United States Senator who stood firm in his convictions. He bravely served our country in more ways than one and has left a long lasting impact on the State of Oklahoma.”
Former U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe was the longest serving U.S. senator in Oklahoma history. His political career spanned over six decades.
Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, and Senator Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, today released the following statements mourning the passing of former U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe, a dedicated public servant who played a pivotal role in strengthening national security and supporting military facilities across the state of Oklahoma.
“Senator Jim Inhofe was a towering figure in Oklahoma politics and a steadfast champion for our military,” Sen. Pugh said. “His unwavering commitment to national security and his tireless efforts to enhance our state’s military infrastructure have left an indelible mark. Sen. Inhofe’s legacy of service will continue to inspire us all. He fought tirelessly to keep some of our nation’s most critical military facilities open during tight budget years when the federal government was trying to close them. My continued thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Senator Rosino also shared his condolences.
“Senator Inhofe’s dedication to our nation’s defense and his advocacy for Oklahoma’s military bases were unparalleled,” Sen. Rosino said. “He worked tirelessly to ensure our troops had the resources they needed and that our facilities remained at the forefront of national security. Jim Inhofe’s passing is a profound loss for Oklahoma and for the entire nation. His contributions to national security and support for Oklahoma’s military installations will be remembered and honored for years to come.”
