WASHINGTON, DC – Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Chairman of the Environment & Public Works Committee made the following comments today after hearing the retirement announcement of Senator Jim Jeffords (I-VT), Ranking Member of the Committee: “I served in House and Senate with Jim Jeffords, for many of those years sitting next to him on the floor of the Senate. Our working relationship has always been so compatible that it surprised people. I don’t believe there ever has been a case of two people who have such diverse philosophies being such close personal friends. I commend Jim’s long career in public service, regret that he is retiring, and am sure he will continue to be my close friend.”