WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement in response to the news of the death of retired Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), former chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.
 
“I was saddened to hear the news this morning of Sen. Inhofe’s passing. Working together in a bicameral and bipartisan spirit to produce four outstanding National Defense Authorization Acts, I saw firsthand his dedication to our national security and service members. Despite our different political views, I greatly admired and appreciated his tireless work. He was a staunch and formidable advocate for ensuring partisan politics would not get in the way of Congress fulfilling its duty to provide for the common defense. And his years of service to his constituents and to strengthening our Armed Services will not be forgotten.
 
“My thoughts are with his wife Kay as well as their family and friends at this difficult time.”
 
 
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