U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe’s trips to Africa called a ‘Jesus thing’

Mark Powers, who lives in Virginia, still works for the Assemblies of God general council while also serving part time on the senator’s staff.

When he was first hired in 2001, Powers was paid about $5,000 a year through the senator’s office. He is now paid $15,000 a year.

Powers accompanies the senator on his frequent trips to Africa.

Matt Dempsey, Inhofe’s communications director, said Powers worked for the Assemblies of God in several African nations before his employment with Inhofe.

"Mark’s proven understanding and knowledge of Africa is exactly the reason Mark was hired,” Dempsey said. "Senator Inhofe is well aware that Mark continues to remain active in his church and has made sure a clear line exists between Mark’s work in the Senate and Mark’s work for his church.”

Chris Casteel, Washington Bureau