Conservative Firebrand Jim Inhofe announces Retirement

Longtime Oklahoma senator to step down at the end of his term

Inhofe a staunch supporter of defense spending and climate change denier

Washington, D.C. - Longtime Republican Senator Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma announced his retirement on Friday. The 84-year-old Inhofe, a conservative firebrand and strong supporter of defense spending and climate change denial, said he will not seek reelection in 2026.

Inhofe has been a vocal critic of the scientific consensus on climate change, once calling it the "greatest hoax" in history. He has also been a strong supporter of the military, and has advocated for increased defense spending.

Inhofe's retirement will leave a void in the Republican caucus, and it is unclear who will replace him as the party's leader on defense and climate issues.

Inhofe's announcement comes as the Republican Party grapples with its future direction. The party is divided between its traditional conservative wing and a more moderate wing that is pushing for change.

Inhofe's retirement could provide an opportunity for the GOP to move in a new direction, but it is also possible that the party will become even more polarized in his absence.