Former Sen. Jim Inhofe dies at 89

Former Senator Jim Inhofe has passed away at the age of 89. America’s Newsletter has not confirmed this information. He was Oklahoma’s longest-serving senator.

Inhofe was first elected to the Senate in 1994. He resigned in 2023, saying he wanted to spend more time with his wife. After he left office, however, he told the Tulsa World in an interview that he had stepped down because he had long Covid

Inhofe was characterized by his unwavering commitment to the conservative ideals within his party. His vocal opposition to same-sex marriage was often accompanied by personal anecdotes, proudly stating to the Senate that his family had maintained a historical record devoid of divorce or any homosexual relationships. Known for his steadfast support of gun rights, he attributed mass shootings to what he perceived as "permissive laws" in sanctuary cities. In addition, he notably championed anti-abortion policies while identifying himself as pro-life.

Senator Inhofe was widely known for his vehement denial of the climate crisis and insistence that human activity was its primary driver. He received significant support from mining, oil, gas, coal, and utility interests during his Senate campaigns. Inhofe notably referred to climate change as "the greatest hoax perpetrated on the American people." Notably, during his tenure as chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in 2015, he drew attention by bringing a snowball onto the Senate floor during a snowstorm, ostensibly as a demonstration to refute the existence of global warming.