The Morning Brew: Oklahoma senator's new job
Inhofe to head key senate COMMITTEE
Sen. John McCain death last month created an opening for the head of the senate's Armed Services Committee. Inhofe, 83, is the first Oklahoman to serve as head of that committee.
Sen. Jim Inhofe became the first Oklahoman to chair the Senate Armed Services Committee Wednesday when Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell named him to replace John McCain.
In a noon statement on the Senate floor, McConnell praised Inhofe for serving as acting chair of the committee while McCain underwent brain cancer treatment in Arizona this year. McCain, who had chaired the committee since 2015, died Aug. 25 after fighting cancer for more than a year.
“He possesses rich experience on the committee, including decades of work on behalf of American service members, as well as his own military service,” McConnell said of Inhofe.
Inhofe, like McCain, is a military veteran and experienced committee member.
“Our national defense is a constitutional responsibility that we cannot take lightly,” said Sen. James Lankford, R-Oklahoma City. “Sen. Inhofe is the best person to step into this role to head this vital Senate committee.
"Sen. Inhofe's experience and passion for the men and women in our Armed Forces have prepared him well to serve in this role. I'm grateful for his leadership, his love for Oklahoma, and his friendship. I know he will serve this committee, our nation, and our state well.”
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Matt Patterson has been with The Oklahoman since 2006. Prior to joining the news staff in 2010, Patterson worked in The Oklahoman's sports department for five years. He previously worked at The Lawton Constitution and The Edmond Sun.... Read more ›