Former US Senator Jim Inhofe, known for his staunch conservative views and controversial stance on climate change, has passed away at the age of 89. Inhofe, who served in the US Senate from 1994 until his retirement in 2023, was a prominent figure in American politics, particularly in the areas of defense and environmental policy.
During his time in the Senate, Inhofe served as the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and was a vocal advocate for American military strength and energy dominance. He was known for his unwavering support for massive infrastructure projects that he believed would benefit the Heartland region of the United States.
However, Inhofe's views on climate change drew significant criticism from environmentalists and scientists. He famously referred to climate change as a 'hoax' and once brought a snowball onto the Senate floor as a prop to argue against the existence of global warming.
Despite his controversial views, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell praised Inhofe's dedication to public service and his efforts to strengthen the US military and promote American energy interests. McConnell highlighted Inhofe's long political career, which began at the state level in Oklahoma and culminated in his tenure in the US Senate.
Inhofe's decision to retire in 2022 marked the end of a 55-year political career that saw him rise from the state legislature to the US Senate. In his retirement announcement, Inhofe reflected on his early experiences with government bureaucracy and his belief in the need for change to ensure that the government works for the people.
While Inhofe's passing marks the end of an era in American politics, his legacy as a controversial and influential figure will continue to be debated and remembered for years to come.
