CHAIRMAN JIM: For eight months, Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma had been effectively running the Senate Armed Services Committee as its chairman John McCain was ailing in Arizona. The Senate has now moved to officially hand him the gavel to the committee, which holds powerful sway over Pentagon programs and policy. Armed Services members voted for Inhofe Wednesday and the full Senate is expected to ratify the decision today.

“Jim Inhofe filled in for Sen. McCain during a difficult year. He rose to the occasion and helped lead the committee in passing crucial legislation that honored the example of his predecessor and the volunteers who defend our nation,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said.