{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"Senate\", state = \"OK\" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/delivering-safe-and-effective-vaccines", "Delivering Safe and Effective Vaccines", "2020-12-29", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "While 2020 has certainly been one of the most challenging years in modern history and recent memory, there is hope on the horizon that better days are ahead. Although the world is still reeling from the destruction caused by the coronavirus pandemic, glimmers of hope are brightening more each day with the discovery, development and delivery of safe and effective vaccines to save lives and eliminate COVID-19's stranglehold on society. Indeed, this scientific achievement is coming faster than any other time in human history, and for that, we can and should be exceedingly grateful.\nAs you might know, vaccines to fight infectious diseases normally take several years to develop and distribute. However, thanks to Operation Warp Speed (OWS), the United States has miraculously been able to race toward discovery of lifesaving vaccines, treatments and therapeutics for COVID-19 in a matter of months. Initiated by the Trump Administration in mid-May, OWS established a public-private partnership between relevant federal agencies  including the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense  and pharmaceutical companies. Since it was created, OWS has not only supported some of the scientific research but it has enabled more rapid development and testing of vaccine candidates, allowing promising candidates to undergo clinical trials at essentially the same time as regulatory approval and preparation for mass production.\nDelivering a vaccine in record time has led some to have concerns about safety. However, I want to assure you that the accelerated turnaround is not the result of cutting corners or ignoring the existing safety standards required by statute. Indeed, from research and development to clinical trials to emergency use authorization (EUA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has remained closely involved every step of the way. In fact, clinical trials on promising vaccine candidates cannot even proceed without the FDA's clearance to do so. Moreover, a Data Safety Monitoring Board advises pharmaceutical companies and oversees results throughout clinical trials. If testing reveals that a vaccine candidate is effective by the end of phase three, a company can then request an EUA from the FDA.\nBefore an EUA for a vaccine can be granted, an FDA advisory committee must undergo a rigorous and fully transparent review of research and testing data in a public setting before making a recommendation. Moreover, for a vaccine candidate or any other unapproved medical product to receive an EUA from the FDA, it must meet certain conditions required by law under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act. First, a life-threatening illness must exist. Second, it must be reasonable to believe that the illness can be prevented, diagnosed or treated by using the product. Third, the known and potential benefits of using the product must outweigh the known and potential risks. Fourth, there must be no adequate, approved and available alternative to the product.\nWhile there are vaccine candidates for COVID-19 still in development or undergoing clinical trials, two have already received FDA's authorization for emergency use in the United States. And since the federal government contracted with pharmaceutical companies to pre-purchase hundreds of millions of doses of promising candidates through OWS, vaccines could be manufactured at the same time as clinical trials and made ready to distribute immediately  but only if approved by the FDA. The vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech was the first one approved and deployed nationwide, and Moderna's followed about a week later. During testing with thousands of volunteers, the results were remarkable, with vaccines proving at least 94 percent effective in preventing sickness from exposure to COVID-19. In fact, this data is even better than the efficacy of annual vaccines to protect against influenza. Neither COVID-19 vaccine has live coronavirus in it. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains on their website, these messenger RNA vaccines trigger an immune response, which produces antibodies and then protects against infection if the real virus enters the body.\nAt the recommendation of the Office of the Attending Physician and to demonstrate my total confidence in our nation's vaccine efforts, I recently received my first dose of the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine. While vaccinations are a personal decision, defeating this terrible coronavirus is a war we must fight and win together. We can all do our part by taking the free-of-charge vaccine as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, please continue taking the same practical precautions we have learned this year to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to wear a mask, social distance and frequently wash your hands.\nFor details and ongoing updates on Oklahoma's four-phase vaccine distribution plan, please visit oklahoma.gov/covid19/vaccine-information.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-presidential-request-to-increase-stimulus-checks", "Cole Supports Presidents Request to Increase Stimulus Checks", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he supported the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020, which would increase the amount on the coming stimulus checks to be received by most Americans to $2,000 per adult along with $600 per child.\nThe wrath of the coronavirus pandemic has caused unprecedented hardships for many Americans, and I applaud President Trump for urging Congress to deliver more targeted relief to individuals and families in the form of stimulus checks. I am proud to support the president's request to increase the amount on checks soon to reach most Americans, providing additional help as we continue to grapple with the uncertainties and challenges facing our communities.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-votes-to-override-ndaa-veto", "Cole Votes to Override Veto of NDAA", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to override the recent presidential veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021. With Cole's support, the House voted 322-87 to override the veto.\nI am disappointed by the president's decision to veto the National Defense Authorization Act, which is vitally important to supporting and strengthening our common defense and ensuring our service members have the resources they need to keep us safe. As the representative for the Fourth Congressional District of Oklahoma, which includes Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City and Fort Sill in Lawton, I could not vote to sustain the president's veto. If Congress does not enact the NDAA for fiscal year 2021, it will cost military families their extra combat and flight pay, effectively giving them an undeserved pay cut for Christmas and shamefully disregarding the selfless sacrifices they daily make to ensure our shared safety and security.\nWhile I understand the president's concerns with certain provisions, I believe that this NDAA, in its entirety, makes essential progress in meeting our national security objectives. To be clear, we can and should address the president's valid concerns in other legislation, but I will certainly not jeopardize the important missions at Tinker and Fort Sill or the brave men and women who carry them out.\nFollowing passage of the NDAA Conference Report in the U.S. House of Representatives earlier this month, Cole penned a column here about the importance of enacting the legislation.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-votes-enact-ndaa-law-applauds-inhofe-s-leadership", "Lucas Votes to Enact NDAA Into Law, Applauds Inhofes Leadership", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to enact theWilliam M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year2021into law. The bipartisan, bicameralNational Defense Authorization Act(NDAA) authorizes funding for our nation's armed services and retirees as well as a number of Oklahoma's military installations.\n\t\t\t\tThe enactment of the Mac Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act into law is the 60th consecutive time Congress has passed and ensured the National Defense Authorization Act has become law. Our nation's defense and those who serve within its ranks are well-supported by this critical piece of legislation,said Congressman Lucas.While Congress shares President Trump's concerns regarding Section 230, a provision which deserves its fair share of congressional scrutiny, Congress must not miss the opportunity to pass such a strong bill that provides for our Armed Service members, supports military families, and includes meaningful measures that counters aggression shown by Russia and China.\n\t\t\t\tI would also like to express my appreciation for Senator Inhofe's work in negotiating this agreement, which stretches over 1200 pages and took months to put together. His role as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee was critical in crafting legislation that reflects our nation's values and makes our country safer. There is no doubt that Oklahoma is fortunate to have his strong support while leading the Armed Services Committee, and I am proud to support his efforts to make sure our military has the resources it needs to protect our country.\n\t\t\t\tNotable Provisions Related to Military Personnel, Bases in Oklahoma's Third District\n\t\t\t\tThe Conference Report includes language which protects the KC-135 tanker until technical issues are fixed during the production of the KC-46, which benefits Altus Air Force base's fleet of KC 135's. The measure includes over $86 million dollars to support KC-46 Tanker Squadrons based both domestically and abroad, and Altus is programmed to receive eight aircraft.\n\t\t\t\tThe Conference Report also fully funds the research and development of the Air Force's Next generation of advanced pilot training aircraft, the T-7 Red Hawk. The T-7 will replace the aging T-38 Talon training aircraft at Vance Airforce Base.\n\t\t\t\tThe Conference Report includes a 3% pay raise for all service members.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-votes-favor-cash-act-supports-president-s-request-increasing-direct", "Lucas Votes in Favor of CASH Act, Supports Presidents Request Increasing Direct Stimulus", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 9051- theCaring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act.Lucas supported the legislation.\n\t\t\t\tThe coronavirus pandemic has caused tremendous societal and economic hardships across Oklahoma and the United States. While a number of our communities have begun to recover, many Oklahomans and families are falling even further behind and are now faced with the consequences of delaying bill payments in order to purchase necessities for their families. Our recovery will depend significantly on the course of the virus in our communities, but during times of need, Congress must provide stability and a bridge for individuals and families until we are fully on the path of recovery,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).Joining with President Trump, I'm hopeful the aid the House voted on tonight will further assist Oklahomans during this historic pandemic and economic crisis.\n\t\t\t\tTheCASH Actincreases the value of the economic impact payments (EIPs) proved in the end-of-year relief package so that each eligible family member receives $2,000, up from $600.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/icymi-lucas-priorities-included-covid-relief-federal-funding-package", "ICYMI: Lucas Priorities Included in COVID Relief, Federal Funding Package", "2020-12-23", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK  Earlier this week, Congress passed H.R. 133- theConsolidated Appropriations Act, providing coronavirus relief and federal appropriations until September 30, 2021. The bipartisan, bicameral package included a number of important priorities supported by Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03), benefiting individuals, families, workers, and businesses across Oklahoma.\n\t\t\t\tKey priorities included in theConsolidated Appropriations Actinclude:\n\t\t\t\tRAMP-UP ACT:\n\t\t\t\tThe coronavirus pandemic led to significant disruptions and temporarily reduced meat production, leading to challenges in the meat supply chain for both producers and consumers. In July, Congressman Lucas introduced theRAMP-UP Actwith Congressman Collin Peterson (MN-07), to establish a grant program to help small meat processors make improvements necessary to meet federal food safety standards and bolster the meat supply chain.\n\t\t\t\tIncluded in theConsolidated Appropriations Actis an amended version of theRAMP-UP Act, establishing a $60 million grant program for small meat and poultry processors to upgrade operations in order to move to federal inspection or a state inspection program that allows for the sale of produces across state lines. Grants may be used for modernizing or expanding facilities, modernizing equipment, and implementing other processes to ensure food safety.\n\t\t\t\tPAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM STREAMLINED FORGIVENESS:\n\t\t\t\tIn March, Congressman Lucas supported theCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security(CARES)Act, which created the Paycheck Protection Program. In July, Lucas introduced thePaycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act, which would expedite the forgiveness of Paycheck Protection Program loans of $150,000 or less.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actcreates a simplified Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness application for loans under $150,000 whereby the borrower signs and submits a one-page certification that requires the borrower to list the loan amount, the number of employees retained, and the estimated total amount of the loan spent on payroll costs.\n\t\t\t\tCFAP PAYMENT FOR CATTLE PRODUCERS:\n\t\t\t\tThe coronavirus pandemic negatively impacted Oklahoma's agriculture producers, including Oklahoma's cattlemen and women. In May, USDA announced the details of theCoronavirus Food Assistance Program(CFAP), which created significant disparities for cattle producers, particularly those who sold their animals after April 15.\n\t\t\t\tLucas, following USDA's announcement,penned a letterurging USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to allow cattle producers that sold cattle after April 15, 2020 to be made eligible for CFAP payments for sales. Included in theConsolidated Appropriations Actis a provision that provides an inventory top-up payment to cattle producers to address a portion of the gap in support provided by both CFAP 1 and CFAP 2 to producers who sold cattle before April 15 and those who sold cattle after April 15.\n\t\t\t\tENERGY ACT:\n\t\t\t\tDuring the 116thCongress, the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology has been focused on providing competitive and innovative clean energy solutions driven by basic and early-stage research. Ranking Member Lucas has led a number of efforts to provide innovative clean energy solutions driven by basic research, including introducing and/or cosponsoring theAdvanced Geothermal Research and Development Act, which authorizes enhanced early-stage geothermal research programs at the U.S. Department of Energy; theAmerican Critical Mineral Exploration and Innovation Act, which reduces America's dependence on foreign sources of critical minerals; theARPA-E Reauthorization Act,which responsibly invests in the U.S. Department of Energy's ARPA-E program to support the discovery and development of next generation clean energy technologies; theDepartment of Energy's Veterans' Health Initiative Act, which establishes U.S. Department of Energy research programs leveraging AI and high-performance computing to develop tools that solve the big-data challenges in providing effective healthcare to our Nation's veterans; theLaunching Energy Advancement and Development through Innovations for Natural Gas Act, which funds research into more efficient and cleaner uses of fossil fuels, adding to a comprehensive approach to clean energy advancement that keeps prices low for American families and businesses; theResearch and Water Research Integration Act, which directs the U.S. Department of Energy to create strategic plan that energy and energy efficiency technologies to minimize freshwater withdrawal and consumption, seismic impacts, and deleterious impacts on water bodies, groundwater, and waterways; increase water use efficiency; and utilize nontraditional water sources; and theSecuring American Leadership in Science and Technology Act, which creates a long-term strategy for investment in basic research and infrastructure to protect the economic and national security of the United States.\n\t\t\t\tIncluded in theConsolidated Appropriations Actis theEnergy Act of 2020, which includes more than a dozen bills from the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and a number of Ranking Member Lucas'priorities. TheEnergy Act of 2020advancesfundamental research and development activities in support of grid modernization, critical mineral security, and high-risk, high-reward next-generation energy technologies. It also takes an all-of-the-above approach to clean energy that not only considers a wide range of renewable energy sources, but also essential technologies like advanced nuclear, energy storage, carbon capture, and research into cleaner and more efficient use of fossil fuels.\n\t\t\t\tPAYROLL SUPPORT PROGRAM:\n\t\t\t\tEstablished by theCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security(CARES)Act, the Payroll Support Program provided funding to support the nation's aviation industry, including jobs in Oklahoma, during the COVID-19 pandemic. In September, Lucas joined his fellow House colleagues and U.S. Senators Jim Inhofe and James Lankford in penning letters urging the importance of extending thePayroll Support Program.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actprovides a $15 billion extension of the Payroll Support Program, supporting employees of passenger air carriers. The Act also provides $1 billion in grants to employees of airline contractors.\n\t\t\t\tSAVE OUR STAGES ACT:\n\t\t\t\tThe coronavirus pandemic impacted a number of businesses and industries across Oklahoma, including local entertainment venues. In August, Congressman Lucas signed on as a cosponsor to theSave Our Stages Act, which would create a grant program within the U.S. Small Business Administration to aid independent, local entertainment venues impacted by restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\t\t\t\tIncluded in theConsolidated Appropriations Actis the establishment of a U.S. Small Business Administration $15 billion grant program for eligible venues, theaters, museums, and zoos.\n\t\t\t\tPROVIDER RELIEF FUND:\n\t\t\t\tEstablished to support American families, workers, and the heroic healthcare providers in the battle against COVID-19, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services'Provider Relief Fundhas provided more than $1.1 billion to Oklahoma healthcare providers. Lucas supports HHS' efforts through the Provider Relief Fund, having recently written a letter with the Oklahoma Congressional Delegation advocating the importance of the Fund to HHS Secretary Alex Azar.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actprovides an additional $3 billion for the Provider Relief Fund, further providing critical funds for hospitals and healthcare providers on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic.\n\t\t\t\tCOMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS:\n\t\t\t\tCommunity Health Centers serve over 29 million patients in all 50 states across nearly 12,000 medically underserved rural and urban communities. During coronavirus pandemic, Community Health Centers provided essential care to rural communities across Oklahoma. In March, Lucas led a letter to Labor-HHS Appropriations Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro and Ranking Member Tom Cole urging the House Committee on Appropriations to provide robust funding to theHealth Center Programat the Health and Resources Services Administration, which provides funding to Community Health Centers.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actreauthorized the Health Center Fund for an additional three years and provided $1.7 billion in funding for Community Health Centers.\n\t\t\t\tRURAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM:\n\t\t\t\tAuthorized by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, theRural Community Hospital Demonstration Programallows hospitals to receive higher inpatient reimbursements from Medicare, which is critical to keep rural hospitals serving patients. Of 28 hospitals that participate in the Program nationwide, Great Plains Regional Medical Center in Elk City, Oklahoma is the only hospital in Oklahoma that is enrolled in the Program.\n\t\t\t\tIncluded in theConsolidated Appropriations Actis language similar to that of theRural Community Hospital Demonstration Extension Act, Lucas being a cosponsor, which extends the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program for five years. The extension of the Rural Community Hospital Demonstration Program ensures that the Great Plains Regional Medical Center has the flexibility it needs to serve rural communities in Oklahoma.\n\t\t\t\tFEDERAL PELL GRANTS:\n\t\t\t\tThe Pell Grant is the largest federal grant program offered to undergraduates and is designed to assist students from low-income households. In June, Lucas cosponsored theREAL Act, which would expand educational opportunities for incarcerated students and strengthen successful reentry efforts.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actincluded a provision from theREAL Act, restoring access to Pell Grants for incarcerated students, providing a significant step to reform prison education programs.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-full-fy-2021-funding-coronavirus-relief", "Cole Supports Full-Year Funding and Coronavirus Relief", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after the United States Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The legislative package passed yesterday provides full-year funding for the annual operations across the entirety of the federal government as well as $900 billion of coronavirus pandemic relief. Cole supported the legislation.\nAlthough I wish Congress had acted sooner, I am grateful that lawmakers ultimately fulfilled one of their most fundamental responsibilities by passing legislation to fully fund the government for fiscal year 2021 and also deliver desperately needed and long-awaited pandemic aid, said Cole. While the resulting bill is massive and far from perfect, at the end of the day, it reflects the priorities and best interests of the American people for the months to come. Moreover, it prevents the added pain of a government shutdown amid the ongoing hardships our country and people have faced this year.\nIn completing the annual appropriations for the whole of government, I am encouraged by the increased funding devoted to the National Institutes of Health to further support vital biomedical research and pandemic preparedness, which must remain at the forefront for years to come. I am also proud that it provides the funding and resources for our nation's defense to tackle the evolving challenges of our day.\nAfter months of needless stalling by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats, I am relieved that targeted coronavirus relief will finally be able to make its way to Americans struggling because of the pandemic. This includes finally extending the Paycheck Protection Program to help small businesses keep their employees on the payroll, renewing unemployment insurance for unemployed workers and providing a second round of economic impact payments to most Americans. And rightly so, the coronavirus aid supports vaccine distribution as more start to become available.\nCole also made remarks during consideration of the rule for the legislation on the House floor yesterday. Video is available here and transcript here. \n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4392", "Mullin Bill Increasing Resources for Urban Indian Health Organizations Heads to President Trumps Desk", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, legislation sponsored by Congressmen Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) and Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tina Smith (D-MN) increasing resources for Urban Indian Health Organizations (UIHOs) heads to President Trump's desk after passing both the House and Senate. H.R. 6535 will expand Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) coverage to UIHOs, redirecting hundreds of thousands of dollars in liability costs to patient care.\r\nThe Indian Health System, commonly referred to as the ITU system, is made up of the Indian Health Service (IHS), Tribal health programs, and UIHOs. UIHOs provide culturally competent care for the more than 70 percent of American Indians and Alaska Natives who live in urban centers. H.R. 6535 would create parity within the ITU system by extending FTCA coverage to UIHOs, who currently are forced to divert precious financial resources away from health care in order to foot exorbitant liability costs.\r\nUrban Indian Health Organizations play a critical role in providing health care to Native Americans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mullin said. Our bill ensures they are covered by the FTCA so they won't have to use their limited resources to cover costly liability insurance. I want to thank Congressman Gallego and Senators Lankford and Smith for working with me on this bipartisan legislation to improve health care for Native Americans.\r\nThe Coverage for Urban Indian Health Providers Act not only undoes the unfair and impractical disparate treatment of urban Indian organizations under FTCA, but it provides a much-needed infusion of resources to these programs, including Native Heath in my District, that are on the front lines of this pandemic, said Gallego. We cannot afford to leave urban Indians without access to care during and beyond this public health crisis. I am grateful to my colleagues for their support of this bill.\r\nUrban Indian health providers should not have to pay more for their liability insurance simply because they are in an urban area. This bill will ensure Tribal health providers can focus funds on care, not court costs, said Lankford. This bill helps clear up disparities in the law that unfairly limit Urban Indian Health Organizations because they cannot currently access liability protection available to other health entities. That omission takes healthcare dollars away from Tribal members. I'm glad we can fix this error of omission for our Tribal members in Oklahoma and nationwide.\r\nThis bipartisan legislation will create parity within the Indian Health System so urban Indian health organizations can spend their money on efforts to provide care rather than on legal fees, said Smith. This legislation is especially important during the pandemic, which has hit Minnesota's urban Indigenous communities hard and has forced urban Indian health organizations to experience financial hardship or even close operations. I'm glad to have worked in a bipartisan way to bring some relief to urban Indian health organizations.\r\nHaving Congressman Mullin introduce and push for FTCA coverage for Urban Indian Organizations like the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic is a game changer, said Robyn Sunday-Allen, Chief Executive Officer of the Oklahoma City Indian Clinic. Because of his work, we will no longer spend upwards of $250,000 to insure our providers. If enacted, we will be able to use those valuable resources for direct patient care. The parity this bill provides only strengthens Indian Country and those lives that are dependent on our care. Congressman Mullin is commended for his unwavering support of UIHOs and the patients we serve.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-receives-covid-19-vaccine", "Cole Receives COVID-19 Vaccine", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after receiving the first of two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech over the weekend. As part of continuity of government protocols, the Office of the Attending Physician has made available and recommended administration of the vaccine to all members of Congress.\n\tThe fact that the United States has deployed a vaccine to fight COVID-19 within less than a year is not only a scientific marvel but a testament to American brilliance and ingenuity. This achievement would not have been possible without Operation Warp Speed, which envisioned and forged a way to rapidly discover and deliver a safe and effective vaccine to save lives  without cutting any corners. At the recommendation of the Office of the Attending Physician and to demonstrate my total confidence in this vaccine, I received my first dose over the weekend. While vaccinations are a personal decision, defeating this terrible coronavirus is a war we must fight and win together. We can all do our part by taking the vaccine as soon as it becomes available to us all.\n\tCole is Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, which provides annual funding for the Department of Health and Human Services.\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/a-vaccine-in-record-time", "A Vaccine in Record Time", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "When this year began, none of us expected to face a global pandemic that would steal hundreds of thousands of American lives, inflict unprecedented damage on our economy, disrupt business as usual and uproot life as we know it. But although the United States certainly did not create the coronavirus crisis, our country has led in the mission to eliminate the virus and restore our way of life by seeking to deliver a vaccine in record time. As we celebrate Christmas this week and look toward 2021, I am grateful that vaccines are already beginning to reach frontline health care workers and the most vulnerable in our communities, providing hope for better days ahead.\nI urge you not to miss how remarkable this achievement is for our country and for humanity. Historically, delivery of a vaccine has never been completed in less than a year. In fact, while the fastest a vaccine has been discovered and deployed is four years, the vaccine development process usually takes as long as 10-15 years. But thanks to Operation Warp Speed (OWS), two vaccines are now ready to aid in the fight against COVID-19, with more likely to be approved for emergency use in the coming days and months.\nAs you might know, OWS was initiated by the Trump Administration in mid-May and established a public-private partnership between relevant federal agencies  including the Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense  and pharmaceutical companies. Since it was created, OWS has not only supported some of the scientific vaccine research but it has enabled more rapid development and testing of vaccine candidates. This accelerated timeline is not from cutting corners or sacrificing safety. It is made possible by smart adaptations to the usual process. Notably, OWS has allowed promising vaccine candidates to undergo clinical trials at essentially the same time as regulatory approval and preparation for mass production. Moreover, OWS has led to the pre-purchase of hundreds of millions of doses. That means that once a vaccine candidate is deemed safe and effective and approved for emergency use, it can be distributed almost immediately.\nIndeed, we have already begun to see this rapid distribution happen with the vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech and with Moderna's soon to follow. Because the federal government pre-purchased hundreds of millions of vaccine doses months ago, manufacturing could take place at the same time as clinical trials. Since the testing and manufacturing steps in the process were simultaneous, that enabled the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccines to start shipping out immediately after receiving emergency use authorization (EUA) from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The first doses arrived in Oklahoma just a few days later and reached Lawton's own Comanche County Memorial Hospital, where the ultra-cold freezer necessary is available and can serve as a safe and central storage site supporting distribution efforts in Southwest Oklahoma.\nAt the recommendation of the Office of the Attending Physician and to demonstrate my total confidence in our nation's vaccine efforts, I received my first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine over the weekend. While vaccinations are a personal decision, defeating this terrible coronavirus is a war we must fight and win together. We can all do our part by taking the free-of-charge vaccine as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, please continue taking the same practical precautions we have learned this year to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please continue to wear a mask, social distance and frequently wash your hands. For details and ongoing updates on Oklahoma's four-phase vaccine distribution plan, please visit oklahoma.gov/covid19/vaccine-information.\nFinally, the fact that the United States has made strides in treating the virus and begun deployment of vaccines to fight COVID-19 within less than a year is not only a scientific marvel but a testament to American brilliance and ingenuity. However, it is also worth recognizing the unsung heroes of the mission  the patriotic Americans who stepped up and volunteered for the various clinical trials. Because of their willingness to participate, we have vaccines reaching communities before Christmas.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congress-renews-its-commitment-american-people-passes-covid-relief-omnibus", "Congress Renews Its Commitment to the American People, Passes COVID Relief, Omnibus Legislation", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 133- theConsolidated Appropriations Act of Fiscal Year 2021, providing COVID-19 relief to American individuals, families, and businesses as well as appropriations for Fiscal Year 2021:\n\t\t\t\tNine months ago, Congress passed the largest rescue package in American history. The bipartisan CARES Act provided more than $2 trillion in relief for American workers and families, resources for healthcare providers and professionals, and emergency lending to lessen the economic impact of the coronavirus. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives renewed its commitment to the American people and passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, providing critical assistance again to individuals, families, and businesses as well as important funds to aid in the distribution of coronavirus vaccines.\n\t\t\t\tOklahomans can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks to the unprecedented response of scientists and doctors across the globe, Oklahoma is on the verge of receiving another safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine- produced by Moderna and just recently approved for use by the FDA. Just as science has responded so has the American economy, but unfortunately, many in our communities are still under financial strain.\n\t\t\t\tThe package passed today provides Paycheck Protection Program loans helping the hardest-hit businesses, delivers additional federal unemployment aid, and gives individuals and families more direct stimulus- all a bridge through the next few months until mass immunization occurs. It also provides funding for K-12 schools to reopen safely and responsibly as well as an investment of $69 billion for the procurement and distribution of coronavirus vaccines.\n\t\t\t\tIn addition to the relief for millions of Americans, the Consolidated Appropriations Act also properly and fully funds government operations until September 30, 2021. Ensuring the government is responsibly funded assures the American people that vital programs are fully operational for the next fiscal year.\n\t\t\t\tAs my colleagues and I depart Washington for Christmas, I'm reminded of the responsibility we share to the people we represent: In the midst of a pandemic, Congress worked together to find a consensus to fund the government and deliver crucial COVID relief. I hope Oklahomans across the Third District have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in the coming days, and I stand ready to help those who need assistance as we continue to lift our communities up from the throes of the pandemic.\n\t\t\t\tBackground:\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actsupports health care workers and hospitals; provides essential funding for vaccine procurement and distribution; allocates funding for COVID-19 testing, contact tracing and mitigation programs; and delivers resources for individuals and families affected by the mental health effects of COVID-19.\n\t\t\t\t- $20 billionfor the production of vaccines and therapeutics\n\t\t\t\t\t- $8.75 billionfor the distribution of vaccines\n\t\t\t\t\t- $3 billionfor the National Strategic Stockpile\n\t\t\t\t\t- $3 billionfor the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Provider Relief Fund\n\t\t\t\t\t- Ends surprise medical billing\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actprovides direct economic relief to individuals, families, and small businesses; expands federal unemployment benefits for self-employed individuals, gig workers, and other workers; establishes a federal rental assistance program; and offers critical relief and policy changes to help small businesses recover from the pandemic.\n\t\t\t\t- $600 stimulus checkper individual/child($1,200per married couple)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Capped at $75,000 grossadjustedincome per individual ($150,000 for married couples)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- IRS will use 2019 tax information\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t- $284.5 billionto reopen and strengthen the Paycheck Protection Program for first time and second time borrowers\n\t\t\t\t\t\t--Develops a process for a small business to receive a second Paycheck Protection Program loanif the small business has less than 300 employees and can demonstrate a revenue deduction of 25%\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Maximum loan amount for a second Paycheck Protection Program loan will be reduced to $2 million\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--Creates a simplified Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness applicationfor loans under $150,000 whereby the borrow signs and submits a one-page certification that requires the borrower to list the loan amount, the number of employees retained, and the estimated total amount of the loan spent on payroll costs\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--Expands list of eligible expensesto include covered operations (software, cloud computing, and other human resources and accounting needs); property damage costs due to public disturbances that occurred during 2020 that are not covered by insurance; covered supplier costs; and covered worker protection expenditures (PPE)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Repeals the CARES Act provision that requires PPP borrowers to deduct their EIDL Advance from their PPP loan forgiveness amount\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--Codifies rules for faith-based organizations and churchesto ensure eligibility remains intact\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Creates a farmer and rancher calculation\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t- Provides additional $300 per weekin federal unemployment benefits through March 14, 2021\n\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Extends unemployment benefits to self-employed individuals, gig workers, and those who have exhausted their state benefits\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t- Provides $20 billion to restart and extend the U.S. Small Business Administration's Economic Injury Disaster Loan(EIDL) Advance Grant for small businesses in low-income communities\n\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Creates a process for existing EIDL Advance grantees that received less than $10,000 dollars to reapply for the difference between what they received and the maximum EIDL Advance Grant of $10,000 dollars\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t- Creates a $15 billion dollar grant programfor eligible venues, theaters, museums, and zoos\n\t\t\t\t\t- $25 billion in rental assistanceand extends the CDC eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021\n\t\t\t\t\t- $16 billionin funding for the Payroll Support Program\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actprovides additional direct payments to America's farmers and ranchers; invests funds to increase broadband access; delivers supplementary funding for food banks and senior nutrition programs; increases food assistance benefits for children and families affected by the pandemic; and includes funds to support the food supply chain.\n\t\t\t\t- $13 billionin support to farmers, ranchers, and America's agriculture sector\n\t\t\t\t\t\t-- The Secretary of Agriculture is directed to provide assistance to specifically support specialty crop, non-specialty crop, livestock, dairy and poultry producers largely by enhancing assistance received under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--Directs $1.5 billion for the purchase of food and agricultural productsfor distribution via nonprofit organizations or for the procurement of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for food processors.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t-Establishes a grant program for small meat and poultry processors to upgrade operations in order move to federal inspection or a state inspection program that allows for the sale of products across state lines\n\t\t\t\t\t-Indemnifies losses for producers who had to depopulate their animals due to insufficient processing capacity at a rate of 80% of the fair market value of the animal plus the cost to depopulate, after accounting for other support producers received under EQIP or from the states\n\t\t\t\t\t-Provides an inventory top-up payment to cattle producers to address a portion of the gap in support provided by both CFAP 1 and CFAP 2 to producers who sold cattle before April 15 and those who sold after\n\t\t\t\t\t-Supports up to 80% of lost revenue for contract growers who were affected by cancelled or delayed contracts.\n\t\t\t\t\t- $13 billionto bolster food stamp benefits by 15%\n\t\t\t\t\t- $1.9 billionfor the rip-and-replace program for communications providers with 10,000,000 subscribers or less to replace equipment in their communications networks that poses a national security threat\n\t\t\t\t\t- $300 millionfor broadband deployment program to support broadband infrastructure deployment to unserved areas, prioritizing unserved areas and rural areas\n\t\t\t\t\t- $250 millionto the FCC to carry out the temporary telehealth pilot program authorized under the CARES Act\n\t\t\t\t\t- Establishes a $1 billion program at NTIAto support broadband infrastructure deployment, telehealth, and broadband adoption activities for federally recognized tribal nations.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actsupport military personnel and their families.\n\t\t\t\t-Provides a3% pay raise for all military personnel, effective January 1, 2021\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actensures childcare facilities, K-12 schools, universities have the resources they need to reopen safely and responsibly; simplifies higher education financial aid forms for students; and forgives federal loans to historically Black colleges and universities.\n\t\t\t\t- $82 billionfor Education Stabilization Fund\n\t\t\t\t\t\t-- 5% allocated to the Governor's Emergency Education Relief Fund for Governors to make emergency grants to education entities\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t--$2.75 billionof which will be reserved for private schools to help cover costs due to the pandemic\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- 67% allocated to the Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Fund (K-12)\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- 28% allocated to the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t-- Clarifies that personal protective equipment and other supplies used for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19 are treated as eligible expenses for purposes of the educator expense deduction.\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t-Forgives nearly $1.3 billion in federal loans to historically Black colleges and universities.\n\t\t\t\tTheConsolidated Appropriations Actprevents an unnecessary government shutdown, avoiding a wasteful continuing resolution that simply straight-lines funding until the end of the year; ensures the federal government has the proper funding and tools to provide for the nation's common defense; and protects long-standing Second Amendment and pro-life provisions.\n\t\t\t\t-For an overview of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food & Drug Administration; Commerce, Justice, and Science; Defense; Energy and Water; Financial Services and General Government; Homeland Security; Interior and Environment; Labor, Health & Human Services, and Education; Legislative Branch; Military Construction and Veterans Affairs; State and Foreign Operations; and Transportation and Housing & Urban Development appropriations provisions,click here.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/december-18-2020", "Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "100 E. 13th St\nSuite 213\n\n\nAda, OK 74820\n\n  Phone: (580)436-5375  \n\tFax: (580)436-5451", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-passes-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-preserve-apollo-landing-site", "House Passes Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Preserve Apollo Landing Site Heritage", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Senate companion bill toH.R. 3766, the One Small Step to Protect Human Heritage in Space Act.H.R. 3766 was introduced in July 2019 byChairwoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX),Ranking Member Frank Lucas (R-OK),Subcommittee on Space and Aeronautics Chairwoman Kendra Horn (D-OK), andSubcommittee on Space and Aeronautics Ranking Member Brian Babin (R-TX). The Senate companion,S. 1694, that passed the House today, introduced by U.S. SenatorsGary Peters (D-MI)andTed Cruz (R-TX),enacts protections for the Apollo siteheritageby making NASA's recommendationson protecting and preserving U.S. government lunar artifactsa requirement forthe agency and its partners'future activities on the Moon. Additionally, the legislation directs NASA toinform other relevant Federal agencies of the recommendations, and honors the over 400,000 scientists, designers, and researchers who contributed to the Apollo programs, including NASA's Hidden Figures like Katherine Johnson  an African American mathematician who worked at NASA for 35 years and calculated the trajectory of the Apollo 11 flight to the moon as well the trajectories for the spaceflights of astronauts John Glenn and Alan Shepard.\n\t\t\t\tI am pleased that the House passed the One Small Step to Protect Human Heritage in Space Act' today, saidChairwoman Johnson.Apollo remains a beacon of inspiration and a symbol of what we, as a nation, can accomplish. I have long advocated for the preservation of the Apollo artifacts, which hold deep cultural, historical, and scientific value for not only the United States, but for all of humanity. It is important that NASA and the United States lead the way in guiding responsible behavior in space, and this legislation to preserve our human heritage in space is, itself, one small step in practicing that leadership.\n\t\t\t\tThe Apollo landing sites mark one of humanity's greatest achievements: the first time we were able to do more than look up at the sky, but actually leave our planet and visit another world, saidRanking Member Lucas.The One Small Step Act maintains these historic sites while encouraging the spirit of exploration that got us to the Moon. I'm proud to sponsor this bill to honor our historical achievements, and I look forward to the time when we can return humans to the Moon and continue the mission of discovery and learning that the Apollo astronauts began.\n\t\t\t\tToday, more actors, including other nations and commercial entities, are planning to carry out lunar activities, saidSpace and Aeronautics Subcommittee Chairwoman Kendra Horn.And we, as a nation, and our partners are planning and preparing to return humans to the Moon once again as part of a deep space exploration program to send humans to Mars. In order to protect the historic artifacts that memorialize humankind's first exploration of the Moon and the advancements achieved by the Apollo program, the One Small Step Act takes timely action based on guidance from NASA.\n\t\t\t\tI'm pleased that my colleagues and I were able to pass this important legislation to maintain the Apollo landing sites' artifacts, saidSpace and Aeronautics Subcommittee Ranking Member Brian Babin.The One Small Step Act commemorates our history and encourages our future in space exploration. This will allow our nation's emerging and vibrant commercial space sector to continue to innovate, while also respecting the rich historical, scientific, and engineering accomplishments of the Apollo program. I look forward to seeing this bill become law.\n\t\t\t\tAs a child, I watched the achievements of the Apollo missions with excitement about what is possible when we come together with a common goal,said Senator Peters.I was proud to author this bipartisan legislation to preserve for all of humanity the incredible achievements of the Apollo astronauts on the Moonand also to honor the 400,000 people around the world who made it possibleincluding the now famous African American Hidden Figures who were crucial in calculating trajectories that got astronauts to and from the Moon.\n\t\t\t\tAs we look forward tonew expeditions to the moon and placing American boots where they have never gone before on Mars, it is crucial to safeguard the history of American exceptionalism and ingenuity in space, from Apollo 11 to the upcoming Artemis program missions,\" saidSenator Cruz.\"I remember where I was when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin first stepped onto the moon, a moment that no American has forgotten. As the chairman of the Aviation and Space subcommittee and as a Texan, I am honored to help preserve these historic human heritage sites, while continuing to maintain a dominant presence in low-Earth orbit and beyond.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/evolving-challenges", "Evolving Challenges", "2020-12-14", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Last week, both chambers of Congress passed the same version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021, sending it to the president's desk. This marks the 60th consecutive year that lawmakers have delivered this bipartisan legislation. Indeed, authorizing resources to support our nation's common defense through passage of the NDAA each year is one of the most critical responsibilities of Congress. Enacting the NDAA is vital to sustaining and strengthening programs and resources to keep our nation safe while also supporting the devoted and brave individuals who make every mission possible.\nThis has been a particularly difficult year for us all due to the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, and our military service members have carried and overcome new burdens in response. Along with their usual assignments and duties, many of our devoted service members have navigated new and unexpected challenges, including being called upon to serve on the front lines of the pandemic. As vaccines for COVID-19 start to become available for use in the United States, the Department of Defense (DOD), in partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services, will be tasked to distribute vaccines in record time. I am pleased that the NDAA, passed by Congress, includes funding for essential missions, such as this, as our nation faces the ongoing crisis.\nWhile many of our service members will directly aid in the ongoing fight to eliminate this terrible virus, others will continue to dutifully protect us at home and abroad. I am encouraged that the NDAA ensures our service members have the resources to stay safe and healthy, so they can continue to selflessly serve our country in other assignments. These provisions include maintaining a plentiful supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring access to diagnostic equipment and testing capabilities and providing health benefits for our National Guardsmen courageously aiding in coronavirus response efforts at home.\nAn alarming and emerging threat made more apparent this year comes from the cyber domain. Cyberattacks launched from increasingly aggressive adversaries like China, North Korea, Iran and Russia will be countered and responded to because of critical investments in essential technology such as cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.The NDAA also strengthens the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and restores funding for the Hacking for Defenseprogram, a university course supported by the DOD to teach students to work with defense and intelligence organizations and better handle the nation's emerging security challenges. Prioritizing programs similar to this one will ensure that future generations can tackle the new threats we face, as well as guarantee the United States maintains our competitive edge to deter those who wish us harm and want to destroy our way of life.\nAs the home to several military installations, our state certainly recognizes the importance of providing for a strong national defense, equipped for traditional and new obstacles. I am encouraged that the NDAA includes robust funding authorized to support the ongoing military presence and training efforts in Oklahoma. Specifically, in the Fourth District, this includes vital support of the Long Range Precision Fires and Air and Missile Defense initiatives at Fort Sill as well as aircraft maintenance and sustainment operations at Tinker Air Force Base.\nI am very proud that the NDAA outlines the strategy and authorizes the resources needed for facing down threats around the world as well as robust funding for our bases at home to ensure we are prepared for any task our country may face. I applaud the leadership of Oklahoma's own Senator Jim Inhofe, who helped negotiate the bicameral piece of legislation. As Chairman of the Senate Armed Service Committee, he understands the needs that must be fulfilled and prioritized today to build and strengthen the defense we need in the days and years to come.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4385", "Mullin Signs Amicus Brief Supporting Texas Lawsuit", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Signs Amicus Brief Supporting Texas Lawsuit  \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        December 11, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Yesterday, Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) signed an amicus brief supporting the Texas Attorney General's lawsuit against Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin, which challenges the results of the 2020 presidential election in those states.\r\nThe American people must have faith in our election system and deserve certainty regarding the 2020 elections, Mullin said. Fair and honest elections are a pillar of our democracy and this brief asks the Supreme Court to fully consider the issues that have been seen in the states. We must all remain committed to protecting the integrity of our democracy and ensuring the will of the people succeeds.\r\nA copy of the amicus brief can be found here.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4390", "Mullin Applauds Productive First Year of Task Force on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Applauds Productive First Year of Task Force on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        December 11, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after The Presidential Task Force on Missing and Murdered American Indians and Alaska Natives, also known as Operation Lady Justice, released a report on the first year's accomplishments and outlined a strategy for the next year.\r\nPresident Trump is the first president to formally recognize the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women and take action to combat it, Mullin said. The first year of Operation Lady Justice has been a productive one and this is a step in the right direction to help prevent our sisters from becoming a statistic. I am proud of the work they have done so far, and I will continue to work with all parties involved to end this epidemic of violence.\r\nThe Operation Lady Justice report can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/community-action-development-corporation-receives-head-start-grant", "Community Action Development Corporation Receives Head Start Grant", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) this week congratulated Community Action Development Corporation (CADC), headquartered in Frederick, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.3 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Beckham, Cotton, Jefferson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Tillman and Washita counties.\nCommunity Action Development Corporation has long provided assistance to those in need across several counties and many communities in Oklahoma. This includes fulfilling developmental, educational and nutritional needs of young children,said Congressman Tom Cole.I am delighted that this incredible agency is receiving an HHS grant to support its Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families. These programs make a huge difference in the early development and well-being of children, helping provide a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school.\nThrough educational, employment, and health service programs, Community Action Development Corporation is improving the lives of countless Oklahomans and their families. I'm proud to join my friend, Congressman Tom Cole, in applauding the Agency for their work in Southwestern Oklahoma and announcing a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helping administer Head Start and Early Head Start programs,said Congressman Frank Lucas.Since 1965, Head Start programs have served over 36 million children from low-income families, including infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, by helping promote school readiness, development, and well-being through an array of services. Early childhood education plays a key role in a child's life and puts them on the path to success, both in school and in the future. I thank Community Action Development Corporation for their work, and I applaud them on their recent announcement, which will allow additional counties, and young Oklahomans, in our state the opportunity to utilize these important programs and services.\nOn behalf of our Board of Directors, Head Start Policy Council and staff, we are very pleased to continue to offer comprehensive services to our Head Start children and families,said Brent Morey, Executive Director of Community Action Development Corporation.We have made some exciting improvements in our program this year, including a new educational curriculum, expansion of Early Head Start to 48 infants and toddlers, and extensive playground renovations at all of our thirteen Centers.We are also very pleased with our most recent collaboration with Southwestern Oklahoma State University by opening a three-year-old classroom on the Sayre campus, creating the opportunity for parents to pursue their education while their children enjoy the experience of Head Start.We continue to pursue excellence and quality in all of our endeavors at CADC Head Start and look forward to a bright future.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/december-11-2020", "Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "100 E. 13th St\nSuite 213\n\n\nAda, OK 74820\n\n  Phone: (580)436-5375  \n\tFax: (580)436-5451", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/community-action-development-corporation-receives-head-start-grant", "Community Action Development Corporation Receives Head Start Grant", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) this week congratulated Community Action Development Corporation (CADC), headquartered in Frederick, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.3 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Beckham, Cotton, Jefferson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Tillman and Washita counties.\n\t\t\t\tCommunity Action Development Corporation has long provided assistance to those in need across several counties and many communities in Oklahoma. This includes fulfilling developmental, educational and nutritional needs of young children,said Congressman Tom Cole.I am delighted that this incredible agency is receiving an HHS grant to support its Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families. These programs make a huge difference in the early development and well-being of children, helping provide a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school.\n\t\t\t\tThrough educational, employment, and health service programs, Community Action Development Corporation is improving the lives of countless Oklahomans and their families. I'm proud to join my friend, Congressman Tom Cole, in applauding the Agency for their work in Southwestern Oklahoma and announcing a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helping administer Head Start and Early Head Start programs,said Congressman Frank Lucas.Since 1965, Head Start programs have served over 36 million children from low-income families, including infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, by helping promote school readiness, development, and well-being through an array of services. Early childhood education plays a key role in a child's life and puts them on the path to success, both in school and in the future. I thank Community Action Development Corporation for their work, and I applaud them on their recent announcement, which will allow additional counties, and young Oklahomans, in our state the opportunity to utilize these important programs and services.\n\t\t\t\tOn behalf of our Board of Directors, Head Start Policy Council and staff, we are very pleased to continue to offer comprehensive services to our Head Start children and families,said Brent Morey, Executive Director of Community Action Development Corporation.We have made some exciting improvements in our program this year, including a new educational curriculum, expansion of Early Head Start to 48 infants and toddlers, and extensive playground renovations at all of our thirteen Centers. We are also very pleased with our most recent collaboration with Southwestern Oklahoma State University by opening a three-year-old classroom on the Sayre campus, creating the opportunity for parents to pursue their education while their children enjoy the experience of Head Start. We continue to pursue excellence and quality in all of our endeavors at CADC Head Start and look forward to a bright future.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4383", "Mullin Applauds $79.8 Million Rural Broadband Investment in Eastern Oklahoma", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Applauds $79.8 Million Rural Broadband Investment in Eastern Oklahoma \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        December 10, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) today applauded the Federal Communications Commission's Rural Digital Opportunity Fund auction, which will help rural communities receive access to broadband. 50,617 households or businesses in Oklahoma's Second Congressional District will get access to high-speed broadband in the next 10 years, with a total investment of $79,828,448. \r\nMy district is the only congressional district in the country where broadband is available to less than half the population, Mullin said. Rural consumers need the bandwidth necessary to deliver educational opportunities for children and adults, telemedicine care for patients, news and entertainment content to consumers, and more markets for businesses' goods and services. This investment will help ensure rural Oklahomans are not left behind in the Internet economy.\r\nMore information on the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund can be found here.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4384", "Reps. Gabbard and Mullin Introduce Bill to Ensure Title IX Protections for Women and Girls in Sports", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) and Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) introduced H.R.8932, the Protect Women's Sports Act. Given the average difference in abilities conferred by biological sex, this bill would clarify Title IX protections for female athletes is based on biological sex.\r\n\r\nTitle IX was a historic provision championed by Hawaii's own Congresswoman Patsy Mink in order to provide equal opportunity for women and girls in high school and college sports. It led to a generational shift that impacted countless women, creating life-changing opportunities for girls and women that never existed before. However, Title IX is being weakened by some states who are misinterpreting Title IX, creating uncertainty, undue hardship and lost opportunities for female athletes. Our legislation protects Title IX's original intent which was based on the general biological distinction between men and women athletes based on sex,said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. It is critical that the legacy of Title IX continues to ensure women and girls in sports have the opportunity to compete and excel on a level playing field.\r\n\r\nTitle IX was designed to give women and girls an equal chance to succeed, including in sports. Allowing biological males to compete in women's sports diminishes that equality and takes away from the original intent of Title IX. As the father of three girls involved in athletics, I want them to be able to compete on a level playing field. I am proud to lead this bill that will safeguard the integrity of women's sports and ensure female athletes can compete fairly,said Rep. Markwayne Mullin.\r\n\r\nBackground:Since its creation, Title IX has been confronted by various challenges, often resulting in nuanced or situational solutions to the circumstances. This has included considering the fairness of an individual of one sex to play on a team designated for another sex when no such team is available to the individual, such as women's field hockey or men's football. This bill protects the sex-based intention of Title IX protections by reaffirming the biological sex-based distinctions between men and women in athletics.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/news-stories/washington-examiner-federally-funded-abortions-on-chopping-block-next-year", "Washington Examiner: Ban on federally funded abortions on chopping block next year", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington Examner - Susan Ferrechio\nHouse Democrats, eyeing the arrival of President-elect Joe Biden in the White House next year, plan to ramp up efforts to repeal a law that bans abortions funded by taxpayers.\nDemocrats in Congress have long tried to strip Hyde Amendment language from government spending bills. The amendment, named after the late House Judiciary Committee Chairman Henry Hyde, has since 1980 prohibited the use of taxpayer money for most abortions.\nBut Democrats say that increasing abortion restrictions in states, rising economic difficulties, and a new ally in the White House have renewed calls for lawmakers to make a serious attempt at ending the law in the next Congress.\nIncoming House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Rosa DeLauro held a hearing last week to highlight criticism of the Hyde Amendment and the view that it hurts women  specifically, minority women.\n\"The Hyde Amendment is a discriminatory policy, and for more than 40 years, it has been routinely extended every year as a legislative rider,\" said DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat. \"But the time has come in this current moment to reckon with the norm, with the status quo, and view it through the lens of how it impacts communities of color.\"\nThe effort to eliminate the restriction received the critical endorsement last week from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a California Democrat and an abortion rights advocate.\n\"Even before I was in Congress, as soon as that Hyde Amendment was there, I was thinking, 'How can we get rid of that?'\" Pelosi told reporters on Dec. 10. \"So it's long overdue in getting rid of it, in my view.\"\nRepublicans are gearing up for the fight, which is likely to occur in the annual negotiations over government spending.\nDemocrats have in recent years tried to strip out Hyde language from spending measures but have been blocked because of Republican opposition.\nBut Democrats see a potential sweep of government that could make enabling taxpayer-funded abortion again a reality.\nBiden, who for years backed the Hyde Amendment, announced in June of 2019 that he had reversed his position and was now in favor of eliminating the law.\n\"If I believe healthcare is a right, as I do, I can no longer support an amendment that makes that right dependent on someone's ZIP code,\" Biden explained during a speech to Democratic National Committee members in Atlanta.\nWith Biden in the White House, only a GOP-led Senate stands firmly in the way of eliminating the Hyde Amendment.\nSenate Republicans have a tenuous hold on the majority and must win both seats in a rare pair of runoff elections in Georgia on Jan. 5. Democrats hope to clinch the two seats and regain the gavel, which would allow them to take up their sweeping agenda, with the Hyde Amendment on the chopping block.\nThe House Republican Study Committee sent a letter last week to both parties' leaders expressing opposition to undoing the law.\n\"As part of their pro-abortion crusade, Democrats have taken direct aim at these long-standing, bipartisan protections that generally prevent the federal government from using taxpayer dollars to support abortion procedures,\" the letter, authored by Chairman Jim Banks, an Indiana Republican, said. \"Repealing these pro-life provisions would destroy nearly half a century of bipartisan consensus.\"\nIf Democrats manage to retake control of the Senate, there will be loud clamor on the Left to use the government's rare Democratic sweep to get rid of the Hyde Amendment.\nThe final hurdle for Democrats at that point will be within their party.\nThe anti-abortion faction of the Democratic Caucus has mostly disappeared. Still, the vulnerable remaining centrists may not be interested in risking their 2022 prospects over a bill undoing the federal ban.\nDemocrats lost more than a dozen seats in this year's election, while Republicans increased their numbers. The significantly reduced majority will make it harder for Democrats to pass legislation that might lose even a few votes in their caucus.\n\"I think now that we have a stronger number inside the House, it'll be hard to shift,\" House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a California Republican, said when asked about the Hyde Amendment fight with Democrats.\nDuring the Hyde Amendment hearing last week, Sen. Tom Cole, an Oklahoma Republican and a top appropriator, said the federal government, through Medicaid, had funded 300,000 abortions annually before the Hyde Amendment's enactment.\nThe Hyde Amendment, he said, has saved 2 million lives annually, mostly among minorities.\n\"Even most people who identify themselves as pro-choice on abortion issues don't want their taxpayer dollars to be used to pay for someone else's abortion,\" Cole said. \"The Hyde Amendment protects the conscience rights of the great majority of Americans who are opposed to publicly funded abortion for religious, moral, or simply fiscal reasons.\"\nCole said that even if Democrats regain Senate control, the filibuster rule that some Democrats want to eliminate will likely remain in place, which would give the GOP minority an essential tool for blocking legislation that the party opposes.\n\"I see this as an effort that is not likely to bear fruit in the next Congress,\" Cole said.\nOnline: Washington Examiner", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4382", "Mullin Tribal Power Act Passes House", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, bipartisan legislation sponsored by Congressmen Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) and Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01) unanimously passed the full House of Representatives. H.R. 5541, the Tribal Power Act, will ensure tribal governments can access the federal resources and assistance they need to advance their energy development initiatives.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\nFull video of Mullin's remarks can be found here.\r\nBelow are Mullin's remarks on the Tribal Power Act:\r\nThank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise in support of H.R. 5541, the Tribal Power Act.\r\nAs the only Native American that serves on Energy and Commerce and one who has lived in Indian Country my entire life, this bill is extremely important to Tribes and strategically help us receive capital we need to become energy efficient and enhance our energy infrastructure.\r\nI have long been a supporter of the economic benefits American energy brings to our communities.\r\nAs sovereign nations, Tribes should have the ability to choose and deploy the kind of energy that best works for them.\r\nI am proud to co-lead on this very important issue.\r\nMullin also recognized the Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader, Greg Walden, on the House floor. Leader Walden is retiring at the end of this Congress after serving for 22 years, including the past four years as the top Republican on the Energy and Commerce Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-ndaa-conference-report-fy-2021", "Cole Supports NDAA Conference Report for FY 2021", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. With Cole's support, the conference report passed the House today by a bipartisan vote of 335-78.\nAuthorizing resources to support our nation's common defense through passage of the National Defense Authorization Act each year is a critical responsibility of Congress. This year is no exception, said Cole. This vital legislation rightly authorizes funding for programs and resources to keep our nation safe while also supporting the devoted and brave individuals who make every mission possible. Indeed, along with their usual assignments and duties, many of our devoted service members have navigated new and unexpected challenges, including being called upon to serve on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. Whether they directly aid in the fight to eliminate this terrible virus or continue to dutifully protect us in the field at home and abroad, I am encouraged that the NDAA conference report generously delivers resources to keep our service members safe and healthy  including maintaining a sufficient Department of Defense supply of personal protective equipment, ensuring access to diagnostic equipment and testing capabilities and providing health benefits for our National Guardsmen courageously aiding in coronavirus response efforts at home.\nI am encouraged that the NDAA conference report also prioritizes investments in critical emerging technology and cybersecurity, which is vital to strengthening our military force and protecting our country against increasingly aggressive adversaries like China and Russa. I applaud the leadership of Oklahoma's own Senator Jim Inhofe, who helped negotiate this bipartisan and bicameral conference report. As Chairman of the Senate Armed Service Committee, he understands the needs that must be fulfilled and prioritized today to build and strengthen the defense we need in the days and years to come, which is certainly reflected in this conference report.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-announces-2020-winners-congressional-app-challenge", "Cole Announces Fourth District Winners of Congressional App Challenge", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today announced that Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh are the Fourth District of Oklahoma winners of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge, an annual and nationwide competition that fosters engagement and educational growth in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) among middle and high school students. Smith attends Moore High School and Ashpaugh attends Norman High School. Both students also attend Moore Norman Technology Center, where they teamed up to develop their winning app.\nI am delighted to congratulate Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh as the first Fourth District of Oklahoma winners of the Congressional App Challenge, said Congressman Cole. Their app is a wonderful introduction for beginners of all ages to learn basic coding and have fun in doing so. I am very impressed by their applied skills and knowledge. Certainly, they have very bright futures.\nWorking together, Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh created their winning app Homeward Guides, which focuses on teaching basic coding techniques through a series of games and obstacles. The app, created for Mobile Android, tells a story of guiding a snake home by using various data types used often in coding and displays different coding languages.\nThe Congressional App Challenge helped me learn a lot about teamwork and innovation. I had a lot of fun making an app about something important to me, said Lauren Smith.\nThe Congressional App Challenge has given me the opportunity to learn how to work with others virtually and helped me learn how to communicate goals while working on big programming projects, said Katrina Ashpaugh.\nA video demonstration of the app can be found here.\nBackground on the Congressional App Challenge\nLaunched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, the Congressional App Challenge each year invites students to create an application (app) for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, raspberry Pi or other devices using any programming language  such as C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, Ruby or \"block code.\" The competition is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of their coding experience. Winning apps from congressional districts across the country are eligible for display in the U.S. Capitol and featured on the House of Representatives' website at House.gov.\nThis is Congressman Cole's first year hosting the competition for the Fourth District of Oklahoma.\nMore information is available at congressionalappchallenge.us.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/reflections-on-pearl-harbor", "Reflections on Pearl Harbor", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This week marks 79 years since the devastating surprise attack at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which former President Franklin D. Roosevelt called the date which will live in infamy. It was this event that officially drew the United States into the Second World War. As we remember the 2,403 innocent Americans lost that day at Pearl Harbor, we also gratefully reflect on the millions more who courageously joined together to defend the United States and our allies and ultimately end the WWII conflict nearly four years later.\nWhen I think about the American losses at Pearl Harbor, I am always reminded of the battleship in the bay that proudly bore the name U.S.S. Oklahoma. As you might know, this ship was one of the first struck unexpectedly by Japanese torpedoes, the force of which caused the ship to roll over and sink deep into the harbor. Hundreds of service members were trapped in the overturned wreckage. Some were able to be cut free while others swam out to safety. Sadly, despite the daring efforts of Navy Yard employees and sailors to save their fellow service members, the damage was staggering. Aboard the U.S.S. Oklahoma, 429 marines and sailors were lost  a death toll second only to the losses of the U.S.S. Arizona.\nMoved by the compelling accounts of survivors more than five decades after the U.S.S. Oklahoma was destroyed, an effort was rightly initiated to preserve and honor the memory of the ship and its crew by creating a memorial. As part of that process, 15 years ago, I was proud to insert language in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that authorized construction of this memorial at Pearl Harbor, which was officially opened to visitors 13 years ago this week.\nWhile we reflect on the tremendous bravery and sacrifice of Americans at Pearl Harbor, during World War II and other conflicts throughout our nation's history, we are reminded of the ongoing need to prioritize a strong national defense in order to keep the United States and its citizens safe. A critical component includes passing the NDAA. This annual legislation authorizes funding for our national defense, including the programs and resources needed to keep our nation safe and to support our men and women in uniform. As the home to several military installations, our state certainly recognizes the importance of providing for a strong national defense.\nThanks to the incredible leadership of Oklahoma's own Senator Jim Inhofe, I am encouraged that both chambers of Congress are closing in on approving a final version of NDAA for this year and sending it to the president's desk. As Chairman of the Senate Armed Service Committee, he certainly understands what we have faced in the past and the importance of strengthening our nation's military readiness into the future. I will continue to work with him to support the interests and needs of the nation's active duty service members, military families, retirees and Department of Defense workers.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delta-community-action-foundation-awarded-head-start-grant", "Delta Community Action Foundation Awarded Grant for Head Start Programs", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) congratulated the Delta Community Action Foundation, based in Lindsay, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.5 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Garvin, McClain and Stephens counties.\n\tI am very proud that Delta Community Action Foundation is receiving a substantial grant to support facilitation of Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families, said Congressman Cole. Last year, I had the great privilege of visiting Delta Community Action Foundation, including one of their Head Start classrooms. Throughout my visit and during conversations with leadership, teachers and staff, I was greatly moved and inspired by their heart for the community and their commitment to the well-being and success of children at every stage of development. As they continue to serve South Central Oklahoma, this new investment in early childhood education, development and nutrition will help ensure even more children have a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school.\n\tDelta Community Action is extremely grateful to be receiving the HHS grant. We are committed to making sure every child that comes through our doors has an opportunity to succeed, said Karen Nichols, Executive Director of Delta Community Action Foundation.\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/cole-op-ed-southwest-ledger-covid-vaccine-triumphant-achievement", "Cole Op-Ed in Southwest Ledger: COVID vaccine a triumphant achievement", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The following op-ed written Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) was originally published online by theSouthwest Ledger.\nWhen we started this year, none of us expected or would have predicted the hardships coming in 2020, most devastatingly due to the global spread of an awful coronavirus that originated in China. The ugly wrath inflicted by this mysterious and deadly invisible enemy has forced leaders from every country on Earth to mitigate the spread as best as they can  a feat clearly managed better by some than others. But regardless of one's opinions on how the United States has performed on that front, it is worth recognizing the tremendous efforts led by the Trump Administration to do more than just fight the virus but defeat and eliminate it entirely.\nCertainly, the best hope we have at saving lives and restoring our way of life is through delivery of treatments, cures and a vaccine for COVID-19. Recognizing the importance of completing such a mission within months instead of years, President Donald Trump set a strategy in motion that the world had never seen before.\nInitiated in mid-May, President Trump's Operation Warp Speed (OWS) established a historic public-private partnership between relevant federal agencies  including the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense  and pharmaceutical companies. As a result, over the last several months, OWS has not only supported some of the scientific research taking place but enabled more rapid development and testing of vaccine candidates without skipping any steps or sacrificing safety and regulatory standards.\nThe accelerated timeline made possible by OWS is due to smart adaptations to the usual process. Notably, OWS has allowed promising vaccine candidates to undergo clinical trials at the same timeas regulatory approval and preparation for mass production. Moreover, OWS has led to the pre-purchase of hundreds of millions of doses. That means that once a vaccine candidate is deemed effective and approved for emergency use, it can be distributed almost immediately. For reference, while the fastest a vaccine has been discovered and deployed is four years, the vaccine development process usually takes at least 10-15 years.\nLet's fast-forward to where we are now. In just the last few weeks, very promising data has been released about the effectiveness of three potential vaccines, including one developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, one by Moderna and another by AstraZeneca. In test trials for Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, both vaccine candidates have shown to be more than 94% effective and the latest data from AstraZeneca's vaccine developed by Oxford University reveals up to 90% efficacy, which is outstanding news.\nThanks to OWS, Pfizer/ BioNTech and Moderna already have contracts with the federal government to provide 100 million doses of their vaccines, with the option to purchase even more later. AstraZeneca has a similar contract for 300 million doses. That means that once one or more of these vaccines are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for emergency use, they can immediately start reaching Americans and saving lives.\nThe fact that the United States is fast approaching delivery of a vaccine within less than a year is certainly a triumphant achievement for the Trump Administration, and the president is right to tout the successful efforts under his watch and his leadership. But more importantly, the fact that a vaccine is within reach is good news for the American people and indeed, the entire world.\nTom Cole is the U.S. Representative for Oklahoma's 4th Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-returns-republican-leader-science-space-technology-committee", "Lucas Returns as Republican Leader of Science, Space, Technology Committee", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after being re-elected by his colleagues as the Republican Leader of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology for the 117th Congress:\n\t\t\t\tI'm honored to be given the opportunity to continue leading House Science Committee Republicans in the 117th Congress, Lucas said. This is a crucial time for America's scientific and technological progress. We're facing a growing threat from China, which seeks to outpace us through whatever means necessary, and we have a responsibility to protect taxpayer-funded research from foreign theft. We also have the opportunity to encourage the next generation of clean energy technologies, which will lower energy prices for Americans while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. We're poised to return humans to the Moon for the first time in a generation, and to plan historic crewed missions to Mars. Every day we're seeing new discoveries and leaps forward in fields from supercomputing, to vaccine development, to weather prediction. There has never been a more exciting time for science in America, and I'm eager to work with my colleagues to support our research enterprise.\n\t\t\t\tIn his tenure as Ranking Member, Lucas has focused on keeping America at the cutting edge of scientific and technological development through investment in basic federal research. His priority legislation, the Securing American Leadership in Science and Technology Act (SALSTA), would double funding for basic research and strategically focus on industries of the future like artificial intelligence, quantum sciences, and advanced manufacturing. Lucas pledged to continue this work in the next Congress.\n\t\t\t\tRepublican Leader Kevin McCarthy praised Lucas' leadership of the Committee: As Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in the 116th Congress, Frank Lucas focused on conservative policies to keep America at the forefront of scientific knowledge and technological development, prioritized basic research in critical areas like artificial intelligence, quantum sciences, and advanced manufacturing, and worked to protect our research from theft by China, McCarthy said. Under Ranking Member Lucas's leadership, Republicans on the committee will work tirelessly next Congress to ensure the United States remains the world leader in science and technology.\n\t\t\t\tThe Committee on Science, Space, and Technology has jurisdiction over programs at National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Commerce, the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Read more here.\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/supporting-small-business", "Supporting Small Business", "2020-11-30", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Many of our traditions, customs and celebrations have been observed differently this year and more socially distant than we'd like due to the coronavirus pandemic. This holiday season is unfortunately no exception. However, although we must be more creative in how we go about our activities, there are certainly ways to adapt, including how we shop and find the perfect gifts for our loved ones. And over the weekend on Small Business Saturday, we were reminded of how important it is to shop small and shop local during this season.\nWhether as an employee or owner, Americans have always depended greatly on the success of small businesses, which includes industries beyond retailers and restaurants. In fact, the latest estimate by the Small Business Administration revealed that small businesses in Oklahoma support more than 710,000 jobs statewide, which represents more than half of our workforce. Indeed, we should all take interest in the success of small businesses and their ability to power both the local and national economies. Through their innovation and creativity, entrepreneurs create opportunities not only for themselves but for others as well.\nSadly, some of the most devastating economic hits this year have been felt the hardest by America's small businesses. While the federal government has done a lot already to help save and sustain struggling small businesses and their workers, there is more that urgently needs to be done. Quite frankly, such actions should've taken place months ago in Congress.\nA commonsense place to start would be to reopen the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), as well as ensure banks are quickly processing applications so that small businesses can promptly access these funds. The PPP still has more than $130 billion of unspent money which helps small businesses keep their workers employed. Since it was created, the PPP has helped millions of small businesses keep their doors open and their workers on the payroll. For months, Republicans have pushed for a vote on simple legislation to extend and reopen the PPP. Unfortunately, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats have now blocked 40 Republican requests to consider the legislation  including one made just a couple weeks ago.\nCertainly, these are unusually difficult times for us all. And helping our small businesses survive is key to our nation's long-term recovery. Indeed, it is in everyone's best interest to help them weather the storm. Even in this era of social distancing, there are plenty of ways we can show our support, whether by shopping online, ordering curbside pick-up or to-go and buying gift cards. In Congress, I remain committed to supporting policies that help our small businesses stay afloat.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4395", "Members of Congress Release Statement on Trump Admin's Rulemaking to Modernize Stark and Anti-Kickback Statutes", "2020-11-25", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA), Tony Crdenas (D-CA), Mike Kelly (R-PA), Ron Kind (D-WI), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), and Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (R-OH) released the following statement in response to final rulemaking released Friday by the Trump Administration to modernize the Stark and Anti-Kickback statutes that work to prevent health care fraud and abuse:\r\nAs Members of Congress committed to moving our health care system toward one that rewards value over volume, we are pleased these rules improving the Stark and Anti-Kickback statutes were recently finalized, creating new pathways to allow value-based partnerships that don't increase the risk of fraud and abuse to the system.\r\nHowever, we remain concerned that the rules exclude certain entities from participating in these arrangements. We believe that as long as arrangements demonstrate that stakeholders are partnering for the purpose of improving patient care and demonstrate clear outcomes that patients are healthier for it, all entities should be able to participate. Our health care system would become more efficient when incentives align for as many stakeholders as possible to deliver ideal care for the patient. We look forward to working in Congress to continue modernizing these laws and move our health care system into the 21st century.\r\nReps. Bera, Crdenas, Kelly, Kind, Marshall, Mullin, and Wenstruprecently urged the Trump Administration to finalize rules modernizing the Stark and Anti-Kickback laws.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/we-still-give-thanks", "We Still Give Thanks", "2020-11-23", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This has been a very trying year, filled with challenges and difficulties none of us expected to face. While I wish the trials had reached their end, we must hang on and continue to persevere. But as we do, we should also find some comfort in the blessings that exist even in such dark circumstances and recognize the hopeful light at the end of the tunnel. For in times of great abundance or of great hardship, Americans find strength when we come together to give thanks.\nIndeed, the unifying American tradition of giving thanks has been woven into our history since before our nation came to be. However, it's worth noting that Thanksgiving was made a permanent national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln during a period of extreme difficulty and crisis for the United States: The Civil War. In fact, President Lincoln's Thanksgiving proclamation came just a month and a half before delivering his famous Gettysburg address halfway through the war and amid great uncertainty, uneasiness and what were feared irreconcilable differences.\nAs we continue to navigate and seek to overcome the coronavirus crisis of our own time, our Thanksgiving celebrations will look different than we're used to. Whether we gather around a smaller table or see our loved ones virtually, I hope you'll join in gratitude not only for each other but for the courage and commitment of those continuing to selflessly serve on the front lines of this awful pandemic.\nWe are truly indebted to those who have gotten up each day, left their houses and gone out to fulfill several key roles. We've seen it in our doctors, nurses and health care workers, who have risked their own lives every day to treat COVID-19 patients as well as those with other illnesses and ailments. We've seen it in those transporting essential supplies and making critical deliveries. We've seen it in our farmers and ranchers monitoring our food supply, along with workers in food processing facilities, meat packing plants and grocery stores, who are ensuring we have food to eat. We've seen it also in our military service members, who are still in the field protecting us at home and abroad. And we've seen it in our teachers, who have creatively adapted to educate our children in undesirable circumstances.\nAll the while, our incredibly talented scientists and researchers have been working around the clock to discover, develop and deliver a vaccine and life-saving treatments to defeat COVID-19 and restore our way of life. In just the last few weeks, very promising data has been released about the effectiveness of three potential vaccines, including one developed by Pfizer and BioNTech, one by Moderna and another by AstraZeneca. In test trials for Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna, both vaccine candidates have shown to be more than 94 percent effective and the latest data from AstraZeneca's vaccine developed by Oxford University reveals up to 90 percent efficacy, which is outstanding news. And thanks to Operation Warp Speed initiated by the Trump Administration in mid-May of this year, these companies already have contracts with the federal government to provide 100 million doses of their vaccines. That means that once the vaccines are approved by the Food and Drug Administration for emergency use, they can immediately start reaching Americans and saving lives.\nAlthough we are not out of the woods of the pandemic yet and the losses of this year have been difficult to bear, there is still a lot to be grateful for as a nation this Thanksgiving.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/in-the-news/rep-frank-lucas-covid-19-winter-approaches-oklahoma-must-act", "The Oklahoman: Rep. Frank Lucas: As COVID-19 winter approaches, Oklahoma must act", "2020-11-23", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Oklahoma set a record for COVID-19 hospitalizations last week, and the United States reached a grim milestone of more than 250,000 coronavirus deaths. After earlier surges in the spring and summer, the country is now in the midst of the feared fall coronavirus surge and we're peering into the darkness that winter will bring. With more than 1,500 Oklahomans now hospitalized and new positive cases averaging more than 2,600 per day, it's time for Oklahoma to act.\n\t\t\t\tOn Nov. 17 and 18, Oklahoma reported COVID-19 daily records for hospitalizations, ICU patients and deaths. On average, 20% of Oklahoma's hospital beds are filled with those battling COVID-19; ICU bed availability has dropped to between 5% and 7%. Increases in the number of active cases come as many hospitals and their staff, especially those in rural Oklahoma, are being pushed to their limits  physically and emotionally. While it's true that more testing reveals more cases, the number of hospitalizations gives Oklahomans an objective measure of rampant community spread of the virus.\n\t\t\t\tAs deaths rise this winter, Oklahoma's leaders will need to implement steps to slow the spread of COVID. Leaders  from Congress to mayors  show no support for total lockdowns or stay-at-home orders. But science shows that there are other temporary measures available to keep our communities safe, save lives and ensure Oklahoma flattens the curve.\n\t\t\t\tWhile inconvenient, masks help mitigate spread. Masks allow Oklahoma to preserve health care capacity, help keep schools open and ensure businesses continue to create prosperity for our communities. Simply put, everyone wearing a mask in public will reduce spread of the coronavirus and save lives. As of Nov. 18, 36 states had implemented mask mandates. From Oklahoma's neighbors like Kansas and Texas to states like North Carolina and Alabama, the enforcement of mask mandates varies from state to state, and even community to community based on individual need. As Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former commissioner of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, wrote in The Wall Street Journal, States should be able to choose how to enforce a mandate, but the goal should be to make masks a social and cultural norm, not a political statement.\n\t\t\t\tAnother measure of intervention Oklahoma must consider is limiting crowded settings. According to researchers at Stanford University, most COVID-19 transmissions occur at full-service restaurants, grocery stores, gyms, cafes and other superspreader sites. Capping indoor capacity between 20% and 50% could decrease new infections by as much as 80%  a public health intervention that will be important to focus on as activities move indoors for the winter months. No business leader or public official recommends shutting down our economy, but we do believe in following the science and proper recommended interventions of doctors and epidemiologists.\n\t\t\t\tDuring the summer, we were warned by public health officials about the dangers winter would bring. With infections and hospitalizations rising, and a vaccine not likely being widely available until next year, Oklahoma must act quickly with the resources we have available now. Wearing a mask and limiting crowd capacity will be a temporary inconvenience for many of us but could have lifesaving results for our neighbors. While many who become infected with the coronavirus will survive, we must have compassion for Oklahoma's elderly and infirm. Over time, with a vaccine, COVID-19 will become a manageable risk and we will once again be able to celebrate all of life's milestones and occasions with our families and friends.\n\t\t\t\tLucas, R-Cheyenne, represents Oklahoma's 3rd Congressional District.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4369", "Native American Heritage Month Resolution Filed in House", "2020-11-20", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week led introduction of a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize November as National Native American Heritage Month, honoring tribal nations throughout history. Following introduction, the congressional delegation of Native Americans joined in issuing statements in support of the resolution.\r\n\r\nEach year during the month of November, I am proud that we pause to reflect on the unique heritage, rich history and special contributions of Native Americans,said Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma.Indeed, the enduring legacy of tribal nations and their members extends far beyond the birth of the United States, and that is a legacy that must be protected. I am pleased to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce a resolution that not only celebrates an incredible heritage but affirms policies that respect the constitutional rights of tribes and preserve the promises made by the federal government.\r\n\r\nNative American Heritage month is all about recognizing the contributions that American Indians, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiians have made to this country while reflecting upon the systemic racism and failures of the federal government to uphold promises to Native Nations. We must work to ensure the federal government upholds its trust obligation and promote tribal sovereignty so that we move toward a culture shift. We must learn from the dark pages of our history to build a more equitable and brighter future. By giving an elevated voice to Native Americans, we're also drawing attention to the challenges that our Tribal communities still face,said Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna.This year's Native American heritage month comes at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting Native Americans and indigenous communities across the country, and the call for action has never been greater.\r\n\r\nThis month gives all Americans the opportunity to celebrate the legacy of the first people who called this land home. Our history and sovereignty are what bind us together,said Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma.I am proud to embrace my Cherokee heritage and I believe that our heritage and traditions should be celebrated not only this month, but year round. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution that recognizes the contributions of Native Americans along with the need to strengthen the United States' government-to-government relationship with Native Nations.\r\n\r\nNative American Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge and pay tribute to the unique heritages, cultures and contributions of Indigenous people in our country,said Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03), a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation.I'm proud of my Native heritage, and I'm proud to serve as one of the first Native women ever elected to Congress. The need to acknowledge the contributions and needs of Native Americans in this country is always important, but it is especially so during a pandemic that has disproportionately impacted and harmed Native communities.\"\r\n\r\nText of the resolution is availablehere.\r\n\r\nOriginal co-sponsors of the bipartisan resolution include Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03), Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Congressman Ral Grijalva (AZ-03), Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Congressman Peter DeFazio (OR-04), Congressman Don Beyer (VA-08), Congressman David Joyce (OH-14), Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33), Congresswoman Kendra Horn (OK-05), Congressman Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Congressman Kurt Schrader (OR-05), Congressman Ron Kind (WI-03), Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04), Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-08), Congressman Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Congressman Ben Ray Lujan (NM-03), Congresswoman Karen Bass (CA-37) and Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-november-2020", "Books I'm Reading: November 2020", "2020-11-20", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As an eternal learner, I am constantly reading. I invite you each month to follow along with what I'm currently reading or check back periodically for hand-picked selections of my favorites. Here's what I'm reading this month:\nOn My Desk\n The First Congressby Fergus M. Bordewich\n\t\tFergus Bordewich's The First Congress is a riveting account of the most important Congress in American history. It crafted the Bill of Rights, set up the federal court system, created several executive departments, established a federal revenue system and set innumerable precedents that still shape American political life. Most importantly, it demonstrated that the democratic republic envisioned by the Founders could work. -TC", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/native-american-heritage-month-resolution-filed-in-house", "Native American Heritage Month Resolution Filed in House", "2020-11-20", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week led introduction of a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize November as National Native American Heritage Month, honoring tribal nations throughout history. Following introduction, the congressional delegation of Native Americans joined in issuing statements in support of the resolution.\nEach year during the month of November, I am proud that we pause to reflect on the unique heritage, rich history and special contributions of Native Americans, said Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma. Indeed, the enduring legacy of tribal nations and their members extends far beyond the birth of the United States, and that is a legacy that must be protected. I am pleased to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce a resolution that not only celebrates an incredible heritage but affirms policies that respect the constitutional rights of tribes and preserve the promises made by the federal government.\nNative American Heritage month is all about recognizing the contributions that American Indians, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiians have made to this country while reflecting upon the systemic racism and failures of the federal government to uphold promises to Native Nations. We must work to ensure the federal government upholds its trust obligation and promote tribal sovereignty so that we move toward a culture shift. We must learn from the dark pages of our history to build a more equitable and brighter future. By giving an elevated voice to Native Americans, we're also drawing attention to the challenges that our Tribal communities still face, said Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna. This year's Native American heritage month comes at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting Native Americans and indigenous communities across the country, and the call for action has never been greater.\nThis month gives all Americans the opportunity to celebrate the legacy of the first people who called this land home. Our history and sovereignty are what bind us together, said Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma. I am proud to embrace my Cherokee heritage and I believe that our heritage and traditions should be celebrated not only this month, but year round. I am proud to cosponsor this resolution that recognizes the contributions of Native Americans along with the need to strengthen the United States' government-to-government relationship with Native Nations.\nNative American Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge and pay tribute to the unique heritages, cultures and contributions of Indigenous people in our country, said Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03), a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation. I'm proud of my Native heritage, and I'm proud to serve as one of the first Native women ever elected to Congress. The need to acknowledge the contributions and needs of Native Americans in this country is always important, but it is especially so during a pandemic that has disproportionately impacted and harmed Native communities.\"\nText of the resolution is available here.\nOriginal co-sponsors of the bipartisan resolution include Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-03), Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02), Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07), Congressman Ral Grijalva (AZ-03), Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Congressman Peter DeFazio (OR-04), Congressman Don Beyer (VA-08), Congressman David Joyce (OH-14), Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Congressman Ted Lieu (CA-33), Congresswoman Kendra Horn (OK-05), Congressman Derek Kilmer (WA-06), Congressman Kurt Schrader (OR-05), Congressman Ron Kind (WI-03), Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04), Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-08), Congressman Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Congressman Ben Ray Lujan (NM-03), Congresswoman Karen Bass (CA-37) and Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05).\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4367", "House Passes Mullin Legislation to Ensure Timely, Accessible Care for Native American Veterans", "2020-11-17", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Yesterday, the House unanimously passed legislation sponsored by Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) to ensure timely, accessible care for Native American veterans. H.R. 6237, the Proper and Reimbursed Care (PRC) for Native Veterans Act, would require the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to reimburse the Indian Health Service (IHS) and Tribally-run health facilities for purchased and referred care (PRC) used for Native American veterans.\r\nH.R. 6237 clarifies that VHA is responsible for reimbursing not only direct care to Native veterans provided by a Tribe or IHS, but specialty and contract care provided through a Tribe or IHS. Reimbursing IHS and Tribes for PRC is absolutely vital in making sure Native veterans have timely, affordable access to the care they need and that Tribes and IHS have sufficient resources to treat patients and respond to public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.\r\nOur nation's Native American veterans deserve access to quality, affordable health care and this bill helps deliver on that promise, Mullin said. IHS and tribally-run health facilities are not only already severely underfunded, but also are often the only option for care for Native American veterans. This commonsense bill will greatly improve the quality of care for veterans by ensuring that those facilities are reimbursed by the Veterans Health Administration for the services they provide, including specialty care. I am glad this bill passed the House and I urge the Senate to act quickly so our Native veterans get the care they need.\r\nWe appreciate Congressman Mullin's leadership to get this bill passed by the House, which will greatly assist us in delivering high quality health care to our native Veterans, said Chief Gary Batton, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Our Choctaw veterans are courageous warriors -- tvshka (tushka) in the Chahta language  who have defended this land through centuries of battles. It is a high priority for the Choctaw Nation to assist our Veterans in receiving their well-deserved benefits, including health care. This bill would clarify that the VA must reimburse IHS and Tribal health systems who are serving Veterans, even when they are referred out for specialty care. By passing this bill out of the House, we are one step closer to reducing the red tape that our Veterans currently endure by allowing our native Veterans the ability to continue to choose us as their healthcare system, even if they need specialty services.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/work-left-to-do", "The Work Left To Do", "2020-11-15", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As the end of the year draws nearer, unfinished legislative work remains for lawmakers in both chambers of Congress. In the coming days and weeks, it is critically important that members come together to tackle the pressing work left to do.\nFirst, Congress needs to provide full-year funding  also called appropriations  for the federal government. As you might know, annual appropriations support government programs that touch nearly every aspect of our daily lives as well as various facets of the economy  including national defense, operating national parks, law and immigration enforcement, health care research and a host of other activities. All of these activities should be funded through 12 annual appropriation bills passed by Congress and signed into law by the president before the start of the fiscal year on October 1. Unfortunately, that legislation has not been completed yet for fiscal year 2021. As a result, government operations are temporarily being funded by a short-term continuing resolution through December 11. I am encouraged that the Senate Appropriations Committee recently unveiled their version of annual funding legislation. However, it will ultimately require time, bipartisanship and good faith negotiation to ensure both chambers can pass and the president will sign any legislation into law.\nAlong with continuing the government's regular functions and preventing a shutdown, Congress still needs to act on additional coronavirus relief for the American people. Both chambers have already shown it's possible to deliver relief in a bipartisan manner, as it did four times earlier this year. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi has for months intentionally stalled progress on a fifth relief package even though bipartisan agreement exists on many things, such as extending the small business saving Paycheck Protection Program.\nFinally, another critical piece of legislation that awaits completion is the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This annual legislation authorizes funding for the U.S. military and other critical defense priorities and ensures our troops and their families have what they need to defend our nation. The enactment of this complex legislation has been passed each year, for 59 years. In the coming weeks, I am hopeful that differences can be sorted out and we can send the NDAA to President Trump to be enacted to support our common defense and ensure protection of U.S. interests around the world.\nBefore the end of the year and the start of a new Congress, current members on both sides of the aisle and across the Capitol must work together to keep the government funded, act on another coronavirus relief package and authorize funding to support our common defense. I remain committed to finishing that important work, and I urge my colleagues to do the same for the good of all Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/debt-of-gratitude", "A Debt of Gratitude", "2020-11-09", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Throughout American history, millions of brave men and women have selflessly answered the call to protect our freedom and preserve liberty by serving in the military. While numerous individuals have fought for the great cause of freedom, it wasn't until after World War I that the United States first set apart a special day just to say, thank you. This week on Veterans Day, we honor and remember our veterans for their awe-inspiring display of courage, sacrifice and devotion.\nIndeed, whether it's a friend or family member, each of us knows someone who has served or is still serving our country in the military. I often think of the amazing veterans in my own family, including my late uncle and namesake who survived the infamous Bataan Death March as a prisoner of war during World War II. I am also tremendously proud of the service rendered by my late father, who joined the Army Air Corps on the eve of World War II, later retiring as the second most senior master sergeant in the Air Force and renown as one of the best to run a crew that fixed airplanes.\nAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are more than 17.4 million veterans currently living in the United States, including more than 306,000 in our communities across the state of Oklahoma. Considering the significant military presence in Oklahoma, including at the Fourth District's own Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City and Fort Sill in Lawton, it's also worth recognizing that thousands more Americans are currently serving on active duty. We are forever indebted to both our veterans and active service members for their devotion. As we gratefully reflect on the patriotism exemplified by our veterans this week on Veterans Day, I wanted to highlight some meaningful projects underway to honor their service for generations to come.\nAs you might know, it was announced earlier this fall that the National Cemetery Administration is awarding a significant federal grant to support construction of a State Veterans Cemetery in Ardmore. This very special project in the Fourth District has been years in the making and would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts and attention of numerous members of the community. I want to especially thank Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn, State Senator Frank Simpson, State Representative Tommy Hardin as well as former Representative Pat Ownbey and Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland, Ardmore Veterans Center Administrator Marsha Huddleston and Rear Admiral Wesley Hull for their tireless work and commitment. The brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon be able to serve as the final resting place of distinct and well-deserved honor for our veteran heroes.\nIn addition, this week in our nation's capital, I am proud that a special memorial will be unveiled to honor the unique legacy of Native American veterans. Set to be dedicated and opened on Veterans Day during a virtual ceremony at the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Native American Veterans Memorial will rightly recognize the incredible military service rendered specifically by Native Americans throughout our country's history. In fact, Native Americans have served our country in higher numbers than any other ethnic minority in the United States since the Revolutionary War. The effort to construct and open this memorial is another project that has been years in the making and one that I was proud to have a role in with my friend and fellow Oklahoma colleague Congressman Markwayne Mullin, who in 2013 led legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives to authorize construction of the memorial on the National Mall.\nWithout question, we owe a constant debt of gratitude to generations of veterans, and we have a solemn duty to serve and honor our veteran heroes, including many who sustained life-altering injuries fighting for the cause of freedom. On Veterans Day and every day, I hope you'll join me in showing your support and appreciation for their devoted service.\nFinally, if you are a veteran and have experienced problems related to your earned benefits, please contact my Norman office at 405-329-6500, so my staff can help you get answers. Also, if you are a veteran experiencing a crisis, please call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, or text the number 838255 to receive confidential support.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-drug-free-community-grant-award-creek-county-substance-abuse", "Lucas Applauds Drug-Free Community Grant Award to Creek County Substance Abuse Partnership Project", "2020-11-05", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Last week, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP)announcedthat the Trump Administration is awarding $125,000 to Oklahoma State University, in corporation with the Creek County Substance Abuse Prevention Partnership, through theDrug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Programto help prevent youth substance abuse.\n\t\t\t\tAs Oklahoma continues to combat the drug epidemic in our country, I applaud the recent Drug-Free Communities grant announcement, helping prevent youth substance abuse in communities we call home. Through the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and the CDC, Oklahoma State University will collaborate with the Creek County Substance Abuse Prevention Partnership to bolster local efforts to combat drug use,said Congressman Lucas (OK-03).\n\t\t\t\tLucas continued,Strengthening community partnerships is critical in battling and preventing youth substance abuse. In order for our communities to remain healthy, we must connect with and educate our children on these dangers. Moving forward, we all have a role to play in preventing substance abuse, and I will continue to support our communities and fight to prevent the use of these harmful drugs in Oklahoma's youth.\n\t\t\t\tThe DFC Program provides grants to community coalitions to strengthen the infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance use. Recognizing that local problems need local solutions, DFC-funded coalitions engage multiple sectors of the community and employ a variety of environmental strategies to address local substance use problems.\n\t\t\t\tCDC is committed to strengthening local capacity to develop innovative, community-based programs that save lives,says Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Robert R. Redfield, M.D.Our partnership with the ONDCP and with community coalitions is critical to our Nation's efforts to prevent substance use among youth.\n\t\t\t\tThe Creek County Substance Abuse Partnership Project will utilize evidence-based strategies to reduce underage drinking and reduce the misuse of prescription drugs among youth under the age of 18 in Creek County, Oklahoma, while building coalition and community capacity to prevent the onset and to reduce the progression of substance abuse.\n\t\t\t\tTo achieve the two stated DFC goals - Increasing community collaboration and reducing your substance - the partnership's proposed action plan is comprised of evidence-based strategies to address both social and retail access. These include: Social Host Liability Laws, Alcohol Compliance Checks, Responsible Beverage Service and Sales Training, Media Outlets, Policy Development, Safe use of RX drugs (Prescribing Guidelines), Safe Storage of RX drugs (Lock boxes) , Safe Disposal of RX drugs (Medication Disposal Kits, Drug Drop Kiosk/Boxes) and the promotion of the Oklahoma Prescription Monitoring Program.\n\t\t\t\tFor more information on the DFC Program visit the CDC'swebsite.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/justice-amy-coney-barrett", "Justice Amy Coney Barrett", "2020-11-02", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "American history was made recently on October 26, when Amy Coney Barrett was officially confirmed to serve as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. With an outstanding educational background, remarkable career and spotless reputation, Justice Barrett is indeed the right person at the right time to fill the seat of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the highest court in the land.\nAs Justice Barrett demonstrated throughout her confirmation hearings, she is immensely qualified to serve and incredibly knowledgeable as well. Indeed, her exceptional intellect was made evident to all by her ability to recall information and answer questions for a grueling number of hours without taking or referring to any notes. Such brilliance makes it apparent why she graduated at the top of her class from Notre Dame Law School, where she later became a much beloved professor and mentor.\nPrior to her confirmation to the Supreme Court, Justice Barrett served as a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. That tenure revealed a fair and impartial jurist committed to defending the United States Constitution and interpreting laws as written, not as she wishes it were. A former clerk to the late Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Barrett is also a constitutional originalist. Deeply committed to the philosophy that judges and justices should not legislate from the bench, Justice Barrett remarked during the confirmation process, Courts are not designed to solve every problem or right every wrong in our public life. The policy decisions and value judgements of government must be made by the political branches, elected by and accountable to the people. The public should not expect courts to do so and courts should not try.\nWhile it's obvious that Justice Barrett is a smart, well-educated and driven woman, she is also devoted to her husband and family. She is a present and loving mother of seven children, including two who were adopted from Haiti and one with special needs. As the fifth woman confirmed to the Supreme Court, she is also the first working mother of school-aged children ever to serve.\nJustice Barrett is not only a great choice because of her background and credentials, she also exemplifies great character and compassion. Throughout her life, she has inspired and impacted many lives for the better. Indeed, she is a wonderful role model and worth looking up to. As she has done throughout her impressive career, Justice Barrett will indeed be an ardent defender of the Constitution. I look forward to seeing her leadership, knowledge and compassion shine through as she serves on the bench.\nAlthough some may criticize the timing of the confirmation, the truth is that all Americans can and should be proud of the quality of the individual. Moreover, no wrong was done by either President Trump for exercising his constitutional duty by nominating or the Republican-led U.S. Senate for confirming Justice Barrett. Remember, our nation's government was built to be a system of checks and balances. When the leading party in the White House and the U.S. Senate are the same, it is not unusual or unlawful for court nominations to move forward, even in a presidential election year.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-69-million-rural-electric-investment-western-oklahoma", "Lucas Applauds $69 Million Rural Electric Investment in Western Oklahoma", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Last week, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdueannouncedthat the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $69 million to build and improve rural electric infrastructure in western Oklahoma.\n\t\t\t\tThe Rural Development investment, to CKenergy Electric Cooperative, Inc., will be used to connect 1,480 consumers, and build and improve 1,276 miles of line. The investment includes $5,735,046 in smart grid technologies.\n\t\t\t\tI'm happy to see CKenergy Electric Cooperative receive this $69 million investment to build and improve essential electric infrastructure across western Oklahoma,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).Safe and reliable electricity are critically important to the livelihoods of my neighbors across the District. I applaud Secretary Perdue and USDA for their investments in rural America, and I thank CKenergy for continuing to serve more than 26,000 members through 7,799 miles of line in 10 counties across western Oklahoma- especially as they work to restore power to those affected by Oklahoma's recent ice storm.\n\t\t\t\tLast week's announcement is part of a record level of USDA electric infrastructure investments in one fiscal year. The department invested $6.3 billion in theElectric Loan Programin FY 2020, up from $5.8 billion in 2019  also a record. USDA made loans to 119 utilities in 34 states across the country during FY 2020, which ended on September 30. Those figures build upon the $3.7 billion invested in 2018.\n\t\t\t\tWorking and accessible rural electric infrastructure is a cornerstone to prosperity in America's heartland,Secretary Perdue said.This critical funding reflects President Trump's commitment to increasing prosperity across all of rural America and ensures this major infrastructure network remains reliable for the millions of Americans who depend on it every day.\n\t\t\t\tHelping improve rural electric infrastructure is a significant part of the Trump administration's all-of-the-above energy strategy. USDA's Electric Program helps finance wind, solar and natural gas plants, as well as improvements to produce clean energy from coal-fired plants. Local utilities also use the loans to invest in infrastructure to deliver affordable power to thousands of residential, commercial and agricultural consumers.\n\t\t\t\tTwenty-one of the loans that USDA awarded in FY 2020, representing almost 10 percent of total loan volume by dollar, will help expand smart grid technologies. Smart grid can be a catalyst for broadband and other telecommunications services in unserved and underserved rural areas. These loans will finance nearly 23,000 new line-miles of smart grid fiber when buildout is complete.\n\t\t\t\tRural electric cooperatives and utilities are increasing their internal communications capabilities to improve the reliability and efficiency of the electric grid. This added communications capacity helps cooperatives and their partners expand broadband coverage as they leverage these USDA smart grid investments.\n\t\t\t\tIn addition, this year, USDA has made it easier for rural electric utilities and cooperatives to use Electric Program loans for vegetation management programs to prevent and control wildfires.\n\t\t\t\tUSDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visitwww.rd.usda.gov.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/eda-invests-1-million-oklahoma-state-university-assist-oklahoma-manufacturers", "EDA Invests $1 Million to Oklahoma State University to Assist Oklahoma Manufacturers", "2020-10-28", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announcedthat the Department's Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1 million CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, to assist Oklahoma manufacturers in Northeast and Central Oklahoma respond to the coronavirus pandemic:\n\t\t\t\tThe Commerce Department and EDA's investment comes at a crucial time as Oklahoma and its businesses recover from the coronavirus pandemic. Oklahoma State University has a long history of partnering with regional manufacturers, providing assistance to growing businesses and insights to shifts in industries,said Congressman Lucas.I'm extremely proud of the work Oklahoma State University has done to help assist local manufacturers and job creators across Northeast and Central Oklahoma. Thanks to OSU's efforts and the EDA's investment, Oklahoma will soon have an additional 500 jobs added to our growing economy.\n\t\t\t\tThe EDA grant will be matched with $485,000 in local funds and is expected to create 500 jobs.\n\t\t\t\tPresident Trump is working diligently every day to support our nation's economy following the impacts of COVID-19 through the CARES Act,said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.This EDA investment will create a stronger and more resilient economy in Northeast and Central Oklahoma by creating important, new manufacturing opportunities.\n\t\t\t\tThis investment comes at a crucial time to help Oklahoma's economy come roaring back,said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.The technical assistance to be provided by Oklahoma State University to regional manufactures will address workforce health and safety, shift to new markets, and support other recovery efforts.\n\t\t\t\tAs Oklahoma recovers from the coronavirus pandemic, the Trump administration continues to make our state a priority,said Senator Jim Inhofe.I am pleased that Oklahoma State University will receive a $1 million CARES Act Recovery Assistance grant to help Oklahoma manufacturers in Northeast and Central Oklahoma respond to the effects of the coronavirus. These funds will be used to provide technical assistance and best practices to assist our local manufactures and job creators access new markets. This funding will be matched with more than $400,000 in local funds and create 500 jobs in the region. This is fantastic news.\n\t\t\t\tThe CARES Act,signed into lawby President Donald J. Trump, provides EDA with $1.5 billion for economic development assistance programs to help communities prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus pandemic.\n\t\t\t\tEDA CARES Act Recovery Assistance, which is being administered under the authority of the bureau's flexibleEconomic Adjustment Assistance(EAA) (PDF) program, provides a wide-range of financial assistance to eligible communities and regions as they respond to and recover from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. For complete information, please visit our recently updatedEDA CARES Act Recovery Assistance page.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-named-guardian-small-business-nfib", "Lucas Named Guardian of Small Business by NFIB", "2020-10-27", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Last week, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) was named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Awarded every Congress,NFIB's Guardian of Small Business Award is reserved for lawmakers who vote consistently with small business on the key issues identified by small business owners.\n\t\t\t\tI'm honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business Award from NFIB. Small, family-owned businesses are the engines to many local economies throughout Oklahoma, and in the wake of COVID-19, it's critically important that we support our local business owners to keep our communities thriving,said Congressman Lucas.I'm proud to represent the thousands of small businesses in Oklahoma's Third District, and I'll always fight for their success.\n\t\t\t\tThe NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is awarded to lawmakers who small businesses can truly count on,saidKevin Kuhlman, NFIB Vice President of Federal Government Relations. These Members of the U.S. House of Representatives are dedicated supporters of the key issues that our members are concerned about and have proven themselves to be real champions for small business. Our policy positions are driven by our members, and we report NFIB Key Votes back to our membership. We are proud to recognize the elected officials from the 116thCongress who earned this distinction by taking pro-small business votes supporting financial assistance programs and tax relief and opposing new regulations and increased labor costs. Small business owners across the country need their support now more than ever during these unprecedented times, and we are grateful to these lawmakers for their leadership.\n\t\t\t\tFind a complete list of the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award recipients from the 116thCongresshere.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4355", "Mullin Statement on Confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Statement on Confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        October 26, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after Judge Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed by the Senate to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.\r\nJudge Barrett is exceptionally well-qualified and a great choice by President Trump to serve on the highest court in the land, Mullin said. She is dedicated to upholding the Constitution as written, not legislating from the bench, and protecting our fundamental rights. Congratulations to Judge Barrett on her confirmation to the United States Supreme Court.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-confirmation-of-amy-coney-barrett-to-supreme-court", "Cole Applauds Senate Confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the United States Senate voted to confirm the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States.\nAmy Coney Barrett will make a fantastic Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States, and I am delighted that the Senate confirmed her nomination. Not only is she immensely qualified when you look at her educational and career credentials alone, but her confirmation hearings proved to everyone watching that she is incredibly sharp and knowledgeable. I applaud President Trump for nominating such a brilliant person and great American to serve on the highest court in the land. As she has done throughout her impressive career, Associate Justice Barrett will indeed be an ardent defender of the Constitution when she assumes her seat on the bench of the Supreme Court.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/precious-right-to-exercise", "A Precious Right to Exercise", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "While not all Americans are called to public service, each of us has a role to play in shaping and determining the direction of our country and our communities. With Election Day right around the corner and absentee voting already underway, I encourage you to exercise your precious right to vote and have a say in choosing who will represent you locally and nationally.\nWhen our Founding Fathers first dreamed what the United States of America could be and built a democratic framework for our republic to succeed, their aim was not only to protect the rights of citizens but to encourage nationwide participation in government. That special ability to participate in government must never be taken for granted. Indeed, throughout our history, hundreds of thousands have given their lives to protect our way of life and preserve our unique freedoms, including the right to vote. The least we can do is respect their courage and let our voices be heard when the opportunity comes.\nSince our nation was founded nearly 245 years ago, the United States has confronted many challenges, and the unrelenting hardships experienced this year have been particularly difficult and numerous. However, there is no obstacle too tough for Americans to overcome when we face it together. While it's easy to get swept up in the partisan rhetoric that often runs rampant during election season, I caution you not to demonize your fellow Americans, just because you disagree politically. Especially as we seek an end to the coronavirus crisis and race to restore our way of life, we need each other more than ever.\nRemember, even on our very worst day, we are still the greatest nation on earth with an even brighter future ahead. Whatever your political persuasion or affiliation, I encourage you to research candidates and cast your ballot on or before Tuesday, November 3. When you express your opinion at the polls, you validate the sacrifice of those who have fought to preserve our freedom throughout history and make America a more perfect union. And whether your desired candidate wins or loses, you will have the satisfaction knowing you participated in our government the way our Founding Fathers intended.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-confirmation-judge-amy-coney-barrett", "Lucas Applauds Confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted 52-48 to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to serve as the next Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States:\n\t\t\t\tI applaud the United States Senate for confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court. During her time as a federal judge, Judge Barrett was a principled, intelligent, and steadfast jurist of the rule of law- and during the confirmation process she assured the American people she'd remain a strong protector of the U.S. Constitution and the laws of our great Nation,said Congressman Frank Lucas(OK-03).I thank Oklahoma's Senators Jim Inhofe and James Lankford for their leadership throughout this process and for their vote confirming the U.S. Supreme Court's fifth female justice. This is truly a historic moment for the U.S. Supreme Court- congratulations Associate Justice Amy Coney Barrett.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-leads-bipartisan-efforts-ensuring-covid-19-funds-rural-hospitals", "Lucas Leads Bipartisan Efforts Ensuring COVID-19 Funds for Rural Hospitals", "2020-10-26", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Last week, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) led two letters to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar expressing concerns over recent, now revised, changes to the Provider Relief Fund (PRF) reporting requirements. After receiving feedback from the Members of Congress and other stakeholders, HHS has announced that it will amend its PRF reporting requirements- ensuring Oklahoma's hospitals have access to COVID-19 relief funds.\n\t\t\t\tAt a time when so many are still struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that our nation's hospitals and providers have the resources and assistance they need in order to keep our communities healthy. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our hospitals have relied on distributions from HHS' Provider Relief Fund to care for thousands of individuals and families and to help them keep their doors open during these challenging times,said Congressman Lucas.I am proud to have led these important letters to HHS, addressing concerns of the now revised reporting requirements for the PRF, which could adversely impact Oklahoma's hospitals by ordering them to return this important funding created by Congress. The pandemic is far from over, and those on the frontlines day in and day out deserve stability and certainty, as they dedicate and commit their lives for the health of our communities.\n\t\t\t\tThe PRF authorized under theCARES Actprovides critical relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds have been used to help protect the safety of frontline doctors and nurses, ensure access to quality care, and in many cases, have helped enable providers to keep their doors open during these challenging times.\n\t\t\t\tOn September 19, 2020, HHSannouncedchanges to the PRF reporting requirements that would have forced many hospitals and other providers to return some of this vital funding and jeopardize patients' access to care while the nation continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\t\t\t\tIn a letter led by U.S. Representatives Frank Lucas (R-OK), David B. McKinley, P.E., (R-W.Va.), Mike Levin (D-CA), Roger Marshall M.D., (R-KS), Mike Thompson (D-CA), andTom O'Halleran (D-AZ), with 239 other Members of Congress, Lucas wrote that HHS' changes on September 19 would represent an about-face from the stipulations that HHS outlined months ago, which providers based their planning upon during an already tumultuous fiscal environment.\n\t\t\t\tLucas also penned a letter with Oklahoma U.S. Senators Jim Inhofe, James Lankford, and the entire U.S. House delegation, writing that HHS' requirements would disproportionately affect rural hospitals that already operate on thin margins.\n\t\t\t\tOn October 22, 2020, after receiving a consensus among Members of Congress and stakeholders, HHSamendedits PRF reporting requirements providing for full applicability of PRF distributions to lost revenues.\n\t\t\t\tIn a statement of appreciation from the American Hospital Association to Members of Congress,American Hospital Association Executive Vice President Tom Nickelswrote,Their work to revise the reporting requirements will help ensure that hospitals and health systems can continue to care for their patients and provide services to their communities, particularly those in rural areas and those serving vulnerable communities.\n\t\t\t\tAs of October 20, 2020, Oklahoma has received$1,147,957,707from HHS' Provider Relief Fund.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-named-nfib-guardian-of-small-business", "Cole Named a Guardian of Small Business by NFIB", "2020-10-23", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he was named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Awarded every Congress, the recognition is given to legislators who vote in favor of key policies and priorities for small businesses. During his service in the U.S. House of Representatives, Cole has received the award every Congress.\nI am honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business Award for my longstanding and unwavering commitment to small businesses, which employ millions of Americans. While this has been a difficult year for everyone, small business owners and their dedicated workers have been some of the hardest hit by the wrath of the coronavirus pandemic. As our nation navigates the remaining challenges and works to recover and rebuild our economy, one of the best things we can do is help our small business job creators survive these difficult times. Our nation's prosperity depends on their existence. In the days ahead, I will continue stand with small businesses.\nLearn more about the awards from NFIB here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-retirement-osu-president-burns-hargis", "Cole Statement on Retirement of OSU President Burns Hargis", "2020-10-23", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after Burns Hargis announced his plans to retire as president of Oklahoma State University (OSU) on July 1, 2021.\nI want to offer my deepest congratulations and best wishes to my dear friends Burns and Ann Hargis, who have done a remarkable job at the helm of Oklahoma State University for more than a decade. I have always greatly admired their close partnership and shared desire to see OSU's students and campus thrive. OSU is certainly better off because of the historic contributions they have made and improvements they have fostered together.\nLeading OSU as president has clearly been both a dream job and labor of love for Burns Hargis, who once attended the university himself. Throughout his distinguished public service to his alma mater, he has always led with a great deal of decency and civility. Indeed, his leadership has even fostered an era of unprecedented collaboration and cooperation between Oklahoma's two flagship universities, a move which has been productive and valuable for both OSU and the University of Oklahoma.\nAlthough Burns and Ann will be greatly missed when they step down next summer, their legacy will be permanently felt on campus, by the surrounding communities and the state as a whole.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-lucas-congratulates-osu-president-hargis-retirement", "Congressman Lucas Congratulates OSU President Hargis on Retirement", "2020-10-23", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement on the announcement from Oklahoma State University President Burns Hargis on his retirement:\n\t\t\t\tFor 13 years, Burns Hargis has truly exemplified what it means to be an OSU Cowboy and a believer in a brighter orange. Under the leadership of President Hargis, Oklahoma State University has expanded the possibilities and opportunities for hundreds of thousands of students- further cementing itself as a flagship university for higher education, said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). From his first day on the job, Burns steered OSU on an ambitious course, ushering in new investments and providing transformative resources not just for Oklahoma State University but for the entire state of Oklahoma. As an OSU alum, I couldn't be prouder to know that the plains of Oklahoma is now a destination for the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and doers. To President Burns Hargis and Ann, thank you for setting OSU up for success for the next 130 years.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-trump-administration-commitment-to-indian-country", "Cole Applauds President Trumps Commitment to Indian Country", "2020-10-21", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the Trump Administration unveiled Putting America's First Peoples First, a policy plan outlining President Trump's enduring commitment to strengthening Indian Country.\nWhile Native Americans are often overlooked, President Trump has consistently made it a priority to deliver resources and advance real solutions to ensure safer, stronger and more prosperous tribal nations. That has included tackling the heartbreaking and rampant problem of missing and murdered indigenous women, not only through executive actions like Operation Lady Justice but recently by signing into law the Not Invisible Act and Savanna's Act. Moreover, amid the coronavirus crisis, the president recognized the need to get targeted relief to tribes and delivered record funding to aid them in this fight.\nBuilding on the significant steps and historic actions already taken during a productive first term, I am encouraged that President Trump has put forward a bold, inclusive and compassionate agenda for Indian Country during the next four years. Certainly, he is committed to upholding the federal government's trust and treaty obligations. I look forward to continuing to work with the president for the betterment of all Native American communities.\nCole is a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-mourns-passing-of-ed-apple", "Cole Mourns Passing of Ed Apple", "2020-10-21", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today mourned the loss of Ed Apple, a devoted and longtime Duncan community leader, who recently passed away. \nI was saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend and a great Oklahoman, Ed Apple, said Cole. Ed was an amazing man  a Marine fighter pilot, a successful businessman, an impressive civic and political leader and a loving husband and family man.\nI first met Ed in 1986 when I was Republican State Chairman, and he was running for State Representative. Most people thought a Republican couldn't win solidly Democratic Duncan in that era. But win he did. When he did, he became the only elected Republican south of Moore in the entire state of Oklahoma.\nEd went on to have an amazing public career. After eight distinguished years in the state House, he nearly won a congressional seat in 1994. In 1995, newly elected Governor Frank Keating appointed Ed to the Corporation Commission. He went on to be elected in his own right. He was an outstanding public servant.\nI extend my sincerest sympathies to Ed's loving wife Betty and his wonderful children and grandchildren. Ed will be missed as a leader, a public servant, a friend to all who knew him and a devoted husband, father and grandfather who loved and cherished his family and friends above all else.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-eda-ardmore-investment", "Cole Applauds EDAs Substantial Investment in Ardmore Area", "2020-10-20", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) applauded last week's announcement from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Authority (EDA) that a $1.25 million grant will be awarded to the Ardmore Development Authority, located in the Fourth District of Oklahoma. The funding will go toward water infrastructure upgrades needed to support business growth at the Ardmore Industrial AirPark. The EDA grant, to be located near a Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Opportunity Zone, will be matched with nearly $2 million in local funds and is expected to help create 1,525 jobs.\nI am delighted to hear that the Ardmore Development Authority will receive a substantial grant, said Congressman Tom Cole. These much-needed advancements to water infrastructure will not only drive business growth at the Ardmore Industrial AirPark, it will create numerous jobs in the surrounding area and its communities. I appreciate that the Trump Administration and the Economic Development Administration recognize Ardmore's potential as an Opportunity Zone and are actively making these crucial investments to revitalize the area.\nThe Trump Administration understands that reliable and modern infrastructure is essential to business development and success, said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. This project will provide the vital, modern water infrastructure needed to spur trade-related business growth at Ardmore's Industrial AirPark, and its location near an Opportunity Zone will drive further investment into the region.\nEDA is pleased to support Ardmore's strategy to maximize the use of its Industrial AirPark and Opportunity Zone, said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development. The project will increase Ardmore's access to international trade and help transform the area.\nI am proud of the $1.25 million EDA grant awarded to the Ardmore Development Authority which will be matched with almost $2 million in local funds, said Senator Jim Inhofe. This funding will go a long way to make water infrastructure upgrades at the Ardmore Industrial Airpark and I look forward to the increased economic growth once this project is completed. I appreciate that the Trump Administration continues to prioritize responsible economic development in Oklahoma.\nThis project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Southern Oklahoma Development Authority (SODA), which EDA funds to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs. The announced funding will catalyze private investment in a nearby Opportunity Zone.\nBackground on Opportunity Zones\nCreated by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act signed into law by President Trump in 2017, Opportunity Zones spur economic development in economically distressed communities nationwide. In June 2019, EDA added Opportunity Zones as an Investment Priority, which increases the number of catalytic Opportunity Zone-related projects that EDA can fund to fuel greater public investment in these areas. To learn more about the U.S. Department of Commerce's work in Opportunity Zones, click here. To learn more about the Opportunity Zone program itself, click here.\nAbout the U.S. Economic Development Administration\nThe mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-eda-investment-establish-business-technology-north-park", "Lucas Applauds EDA Investment to Establish Business & Technology North Park in Weatherford", "2020-10-16", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2.8 million grant to the City of Weatherford, Oklahoma to establish the Weatherford Business and Technology North Park:\n\t\t\t\tI'm thrilled the City of Weatherford is receiving this $2.8 million grant to fund the creation of the Weatherford Business and Technology North Park,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03).At a time when job creation and economic growth are vital to our district's local communities, the Commerce Department's announcement is expected to create 300 jobs, substantially benefit our communities' businesses, and further fuel the economic engine of Weatherford and Custer County. I thank the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Administration for helping create more jobs and opportunities for my fellow Oklahomans.\n\t\t\t\tThe EDA grant, to be matched with $716,250 in local investment, is expected to create 300 jobs.\n\t\t\t\tThe Trump Administration is committed to not only retaining jobs in this country, but also to creating new opportunities for Americans,said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.The Weatherford Business and Technology North Park will provide manufacturing, energy, industrial, and commercial industries with the space they need to expand or locate in Weatherford, making the region's economy stronger and more resilient.\n\t\t\t\tThis project is critical to addressing the lack of developed industrial land available for purchase and private investment in Weatherford,said Dana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.The new Weatherford Business and Technology North Park will improve economic resilience and support long-term recovery efforts from natural disasters by providing opportunities for more business to invest and locate in the region.\n\t\t\t\tThe $2.8 million grant awarded to Weatherford, Okla., by the EDA will help immensely as the city develops the Weatherford Business and Technology North Park,said Senator Jim Inhofe.Not only this, but with the Trump Administration's funding also comes significant local funding for the project. I look forward to seeing the economic growth and jobs that will come to the Weatherford community with the completion of this important development project.\n\t\t\t\tThis project is funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (Pub. L. 116-20), which provided EDA with $600 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas affected by Hurricanes Florence, Michael, and Lane, Typhoons Yutu and Mangkhut, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and other major natural disasters occurring in calendar year 2018, and tornadoes and floods occurring in calendar year 2019, under theRobert T. Stafford Act. Please visit EDA'sDisaster Supplemental webpagefor more information.\n\t\t\t\tAbout the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)\n\t\t\t\t\tThe mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA makes investments in economically distressed communities in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/a-realistic-path-forward", "A Realistic Path Forward", "2020-10-15", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Looking back on the unprecedented events, hardships, challenges and losses we've navigated this year, certainly everyone would agree that 2020 has been a roller coaster experience none of us asked for or wanted. While it will take time to recover and find our way back to normal, I want to encourage you to remember that there is always reason to have hope in what the future can hold in America.\nDuring most of this year, people all over the world have been battling a ruthless invisible enemy. Indeed, no country has been spared from the wrath of the coronavirus pandemic. The damage has been felt far and wide, viciously claiming precious lives and destroying livelihoods without remorse. While navigating this global health emergency, there has also been a great deal of social unrest across the United States. Sadly, the unfortunate turn of events, during a contentious presidential election year, has only deepened existing divisions and heightened political polarization in our country.\nWhile it's easy to feel discouraged during this difficult season and a news cycle that seems to constantly deliver bad news, remember that this is a temporary season. History tells us time and again that Americans possess remarkable inner strength and determination. And we always come together to demonstrate our collective strength and unshakable resilience, even in the direst of circumstances and crises.\nAs we strive to put these dark days behind us and move closer toward normalcy, I am very proud of the optimistic vision recently put forward by Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives. In our Commitment to America unveiled last month, we outlined numerous commonsense policies that will restore the American way of life, rebuild our great economy and renew the American Dream.\nOf course, we cannot get back to life as usual until we defeat the coronavirus. Fortunately, the United States is rapidly advancing, ahead of the rest of the world, toward a safe and effective vaccine. At the same time, we are making great strides in the realm of treatments and therapeutics. This is thanks to Operation Warp Speed, which was initiated in mid-May by the Trump Administration. While a vaccine won't fix anything overnight, it will begin to ease the needless pain inflicted on our country, save precious lives and set us on firm ground to rebuild our thriving economy from the not-so-distant past.\nBefore the pandemic struck the world earlier this year, America's economy was booming, and communities were thriving nationwide. In fact, unemployment was the lowest it's been in half a century. Once we eliminate the virus, we can get there again with pro-growth and pro-business policies. In the meantime, it is in the best interest of all Americans for Congress and the Trump Administration to deliver additional relief for those struggling by no fault of their own. Indeed, one of the best ways we can recover and rebuild our economy is by helping sustain our job creators and their dedicated workforces. Although lawmakers and the president were able to provide four bipartisan relief packages earlier this year, I regret that Speaker Pelosi has repeatedly stalled efforts to provide additional aid, including refusing to bring up a simple extension of the highly successful Paycheck Protection Program.\nWhile there's still a long way to go in order to rebuild our economy after the hard and fast hits inflicted by the coronavirus, there are encouraging signs that recovery is underway. For the last five consecutive months, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has reported job growth, showing that more Americans are returning to work. In fact, BLS most recently reported that more than 661,000 jobs were added to the U.S. economy in September and that the national unemployment rate yet again declined from the prior month  this time to 7.9 percent.\nRemember, America is the land of opportunity, where you can choose or change your own destiny with a great idea, hard work and determination. It is that promise of the American Dream that inspires and draws people in from all over the world. Certainly, both Republicans and Democrats can agree that there are always ways to make our country a better place for all. However, that is not achieved by defunding law enforcement, destroying our economy and dismantling our way of life.\nAlthough nothing will be fixed overnight, I am proud that our Commitment to America provides a realistic path forward for our country. Learn more at CommitmentToAmerica.com.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4341", "Mullin Statement on Sons Completion of Rehabilitation from Traumatic Brain Injury", "2020-10-09", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Statement on Son's Completion of Rehabilitation from Traumatic Brain Injury \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        October 9, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after his son, Jim, completed his rehabilitation at the Centre for Neuro Skills in Bakersfield, California following a traumatic brain injury in January.\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nClick here to watch Mullin's announcement video.\r\nI am excited to share my son Jim has been discharged from the Centre for Neuro Skills and we are heading home,Mullin said.Nine months ago, our family was rocked when Jim suffered a traumatic brain injury in a wrestling accident. In less than one day, Jim went from being an elite athlete and at a high school learning level and to a third-grade learning level, losing most of his motor skills, and suffering severe short-term memory loss. With God's grace, Jim has accomplished something in nine months that the specialist said could take two or three years. Thank you to everyone for the prayers, support, love and encouragement. We couldn't have done this without you.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/cannot-trust-communist-china", "Cant Trust Communist China", "2020-10-08", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "No country has been spared from the repercussions of China's coronavirus missteps and cover-up that accelerated the current global pandemic. However, the coronavirus crisis is not the first time the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has demonstrated it is an untrustworthy competitor.\nFor over four decades, the U.S. diplomatic strategy regarding China was based on the belief that by engaging the CCP, China would become more western-like and evolve into a responsible player in the community of nations. Instead, China views western values as an existential threat and actively works to weaken the United States' alliance system and reject key principles of international law. Unfortunately, China is moving ahead using its financial and military power to shape a world in which it is the leading global power.\nThere is increasing recognition that relations with China are strategically, economically and ideologically competitive. Indeed, there are fewer areas of cooperation than most had thought, and many more areas of intense competition. During President Trump's first year in office, the U.S. officially declared China a major strategic competitor. In fact, the December 2017 National Security Strategy plainly described China as a revisionist power that seeks to displace the United States in the Indo-Pacific region, expand the reaches of its state-driven economic model, and reorder the region in its favor.\nThere is no doubt that the CCP is now angling for greater power and recognition in the world order and with freedom-threatening motives, which makes it even more urgent for the United States to take serious and coordinated steps to counter this competitive, security and ideological threat. In response to this threat, I was very encouraged by the recommendations recently put forward by the China Task Force (CTF) to hold China accountable and strengthen America's national and economic security.\nLed by House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Michael McCaul, the select panel of lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives spent months participating in numerous briefings and hearings with key experts. Before drawing conclusions and outlining a path forward to keep China accountable, their work included conversations with more than 130 leaders  including current and former Administration officials, ambassadors, business executives and other relevant experts. The resulting CTF Report published recently not only detailed their extensive work but also provided 82 key findings, along with more than 400 policy recommendations to protect U.S. interests from the growing China threat. The CTF Report focuses on six important pillars: ideological competition, supply chain security, national security, technology, economics and energy and competitiveness. It's worth noting that, although Democrats declined to participate in the panel's work, many of their recommendations actually reflect bipartisan legislation already introduced or passed in the House or Senate.\nPerhaps most alarming this year, the coronavirus pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in our supply chains, which have become heavily entwined with and reliant on China. To combat and loosen our dependence on China, the CTF recommended commonsense steps to boost American production of goods and services. This would include providing tax incentives for drug and medical supply research and development and creating grant programs to encourage domestic production of important technologies.\nThe CTF Report also outlined steps to strengthen our national defense in response to China's military capacity and force improvements in recent years. This would include stopping material support of China's military industrial base companies, enhancing counterintelligence capabilities and focusing more on U.S. military protection of space capabilities and carrying out space exploration goals.\nFinally, the CTF Report rightly raises the alarm about the very real cyber security risks posed by China. To identify and counter bad actors in Chinese technology, the CTF recommended strengthening cooperation between our friends and allies abroad. This would include imposing sanctions on CCP-connected telecommunications companies, especially those engaged in economic or industrial spying, and any entity attempting to hack and steal our intellectual property. Considering that China has already tried to steal U.S. research into a COVID-19 vaccine, this is an incredibly urgent matter.\nCertainly, CTF's recommendations rely on America's own ability and capacity to compete with China. That must include long-term investments and some institutional reforms. According to the CTF Report, this should include doubling the funding of basic science and technology research over the next 10 years, boosting funding and support for STEM education to improve our own workforce, strengthening the protection of research at our higher education institutions and mandating annual reports of all Chinese donations received by colleges and universities.\nAs the nearly 150-page CTF Report reveals, the China problem isn't a small or easy problem to solve. It will take hard work as well as shared determination and resolve across the Capitol and in the White House to keep China accountable, protect U.S interests and preserve freedom. Remember, because of China's dishonesty, irresponsibility and lack of transparency with what they knew and when about coronavirus, the whole world needlessly suffered and is still suffering. More than a million lives have been lost to date, and many economies are barely hanging on. We cannot wait until the next crisis to get serious.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-lucas-visits-vance-air-force-base", "Congressman Lucas Visits Vance Air Force Base", "2020-10-08", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) visited Vance Air Force Base and discussed base operations and how COVID-19 has affected the base's missions with Vice Wing Commander Col. Jay Johnson and Chief Master Sergeant Kristy Earls. After the visit, Congressman Lucas made the following statement:\n\t\t\t\tOklahoma has a rich military heritage and is home to thousands who have answered the call of service. I'm proud of the Airmen and women of Vance Air Force Base and am extremely honored to have the 71stFlying Training Wing call Enid, Oklahoma home,said Congressman Lucas.As the men and women of the United States Air Force know, Vance Air Force Base and the 71stFlying Training Wing have long upheld their duty to prepare our pilots for the missions ahead. I commend the leadership of Wing Commander Col. Timothy S. Danielson, Vice Wing Commander Col. Jay Johnson and countless others on base, and look forward to supporting Vance Air Force Base's mission for years to come.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFor more information on Vance Air Force Base and their mission, visithere.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-congratulates-national-blue-ribbon-schools-in-ok-04", "Cole Congratulates National Blue Ribbon Schools in OK-04", "2020-10-07", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week congratulated two elementary schools located in the Fourth District of Oklahoma following their selection by the U.S. Department of Education as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2020. Frederick Elementary School (Frederick) and McKinley Elementary School (Norman) both received the recognition, which is awarded to schools for overall academic performance as well as successful efforts to close achievement gaps and facilitate exceptional classroom environments and learning. The awards ceremony will be held virtually on November 12 and 13, 2020.\nI am thrilled to congratulate the Fourth District's own Frederick Elementary School and McKinley Elementary School upon their distinguished recognition as National Blue Ribbon Schools, said Congressman Tom Cole. Clearly, a lot of hard work and creativity went into achieving this prestigious title. Focused on the needs and interests of their unique communities, their efforts both demonstrate the phenomenal dedication of educators and administrators, partnering with families, to ensure our kids have the best learning environments possible.\nFrederick Elementary is excited about the National Blue Ribbon 2020 Award, said Principals Kay Cabaniss and Janice Crume, Frederick Elementary School.It is great to be recognized for hard work.We are proud of our teachers, staff, students and parents who always believe all children can learn.\nThe McKinley Elementary Staff is thrilled to have been selected as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2020, said Principal Carol Emerson, McKinley Elementary School. I am very proud of our students and staff for their hard work and commitment to excellence! We feel we accomplish great things due to the support we receive from our supportive parents and community!\nTo learn more about the individual efforts and achievements of these Fourth District schools, visit their Blue Ribbon profiles. Frederick Elementary School's profile is available here, and McKinley Elementary School's profile is available here.\nFor more information on the awards, see also the U.S. Department of Education's official announcement on this year's recipients here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/need-for-additional-relief", "The Need for Additional Relief", "2020-10-05", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Although there is broad bipartisan agreement in Congress that additional coronavirus relief is needed, I regret that the status of delivering relief hasn't changed a lot since May. It's even more disappointing since lawmakers already agree on how to approach several aspects of needed relief.\nAs you might remember back in mid-May, the U.S. House of Representatives considered legislation deceptively packaged and promoted by Democrats as coronavirus relief. While there may have been a few worthy provisions, those items were greatly overshadowed by the unrelated-to-coronavirus policies stuffed into the more than $3 trillion package. Sadly, the substance of Speaker Nancy Pelosi's so-called HEROES Act looked more like using a crisis to advance a liberal wish list than a serious desire to help struggling Americans. That was made even more obvious by the fact that the legislation was crafted behind closed doors and without any Republican input whatsoever. Not surprisingly, that bill was never taken up by the Republican-led Senate or signed into law by President Donald Trump.\nSince then, there have been scattered conversations between Speaker Pelosi and Trump Administration leaders that, at times, seemed hopeful. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi has thus far refused to budge on both the total cost of the next relief package as well as her belief that we have to agree on everything before we can agree on anything. By contrast, the Trump Administration has shown a lot more willingness to negotiate something real. In fact, the president said himself that he would be willing to sign a bill totaling $1.5 trillion, if it didn't have unrelated policies attached to it. Meanwhile, although many Democrats like to point fingers at the Senate for not bringing up a coronavirus relief bill of any kind, it's worth noting that it was Senate Democrats who recently blocked consideration of one.\nConsidering that both chambers managed to deliver four substantial and bipartisan relief packages to the American people earlier this year, the months long delay and lack of meaningful progress on a fifth makes me wonder if Democrats actually want to reach a deal. If so, last week's activity in the House certainly didn't help their cause.\nInstead of bringing up measures with clear support in both chambers, Speaker Pelosi opted to revisit the same misguided approach on display in May by bringing up a supposedly revamped and lighter version of the HEROES Act. Unfortunately, HEROES 2.0 still included many of the same radical and unrelated provisions that couldn't pass on their own merit. Moreover, Republicans were entirely left out in crafting the legislation again. In fact, it was such a nonstarter that it passed by only seven votes, and 18Democrats even voted against it this time.\nThe time wasted last week on a partisan bill is particularly disappointing when so many areas of bipartisan agreement already exist. Indeed, there are plenty of items that could pass both chambers separately and immediately  including a simple extension of the Paycheck Protection Program for struggling small businesses and their workers, aid to help schools reopen, additional unemployment aid and a second round of stimulus rebate checks.\nAs discussions continue between Speaker Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this week, I remain hopeful for a breakthrough and that a bipartisan deal can still be reached  one that both chambers of Congress will pass and the president will sign. Indeed, it's important for the American people that we do find agreement, and I remain ready to support such a measure.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-china-task-force-report", "Cole Applauds China Task Force Report", "2020-10-02", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) issued the following statement after members of the China Task Force (CTF) this week published a report detailing their work and making more than 400 policy recommendations to protect U.S. interests against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).\nThe coronavirus pandemic isn't the first time the Chinese Communist Party has shown it cannot be trusted as a global partner. However, the consequences of their behavior and mishandling of the crisis were on a disastrous new level. Because of their dishonesty, irresponsibility and lack of transparency with what they knew and when, the whole world needlessly suffered and is still suffering. More than a million precious lives have been lost to date, and many economies are barely hanging on.\nThere is no doubt that China is angling for greater power and recognition in the world order, which makes it even more urgent for the United States to take serious and coordinated steps to counter China's malign behavior. I am encouraged by the recommendations put forward by the China Task Force to keep China accountable and strengthen America's national and economic security against the very real threat posed by the communist regime. \nAbout the China Task Force \nThe China Task Force was initially set up to be a bipartisan committee, but House Democratic leaders chose not to participate. The Task Force was led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Michael McCaul and included 14 other members of Congress representing 11 House committees. Over the course of its work, the Task Force engaged with more than 130 leaders to provide insights and solutions for its comprehensive action plan. The CTF Report includes 82 key findings and more than 400 recommendations, many of which reflect bipartisan legislation already introduced or passed in the House or Senate.\nRead the report here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/october-2-2020", "Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat", "2020-10-02", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "100 E. 13th St\nSuite 213\n\n\nAda, OK 74820\n\n  Phone: (580)436-5375  \n\tFax: (580)436-5451", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4334", "Mullin Opposes Democrats Socialist Wish List 2.0", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after the House passed the H.R. 925, the Heroes Act 2.0. Mullin was not present for the vote due to supporting his son's ongoing rehabilitation from a wrestling injury but would have voted no on the bill.\r\nOnce again, Speaker Pelosi has put a bill on the floor that is nothing but a socialist wish list full of provisions that don't have anything to do with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, Mullin said. We have already spent trillions of dollars in relief funding which has yet to be fully used. Spending another $2.2 trillion, without fully utilizing what has already been appropriated, is reckless. We should be focused on bringing relief to families who need it instead of using this crisis to push a political agenda.\r\nH.R. 925 is a recycled version of Pelosi's bill which passed the House in May. It includes:\r\n Defunding the police by removing $600 million from the original Heroes Act intended for the COPS Hiring program and state, local, and Tribal law enforcement assistance.\r\n Extending the $600 per week UI supplement through Jan. 31, 2021, plus a transition period to allow the supplement to continue through March 31, 2021 for those who have not exhausted their benefits, meaning businesses will be competing with unemployment benefits for workers through spring of 2021.\r\n Allowing illegal immigrants to receive direct stimulus payments.\r\n Removing safeguards in the Paycheck Protection Program that would prevent taxpayer money from bailing out Planned Parenthood.\r\n Providing deferred action and work authorization during the emergency declaration and for 90 days after for illegal aliens working in jobs that could be held by out of work Americans.\r\n Federalizing elections, with only five weeks until election day, by including strict, impossible to achieve mandates on how states must run their elections, including early voting, no ID requirement for in-person voting, same-day registration, and no excuse vote by mail without safeguards or restrictions on ballot harvesting.\r\n Expanding Obamacare through a new Special Enrollment period, which has already been rejected by the White House.\r\n Prohibiting funds from supporting educational freedom for families.\r\nUsing hundreds of billions of dollars of taxpayer money to bailout state and local governments for decades of fiscal mismanagement instead of assisting with COVID-19 recovery.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-october-2020", "Books I'm Reading: October 2020", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As an eternal learner, I am constantly reading. I invite you each month to follow along with what I'm currently reading or check back periodically for hand-picked selections of my favorites. Here's what I'm reading this month:\nOn My Desk\n FDRby Jean Edward Smith\n\t\tSmith's splendid biography of FDR is the best one volume study of America's greatest 20th century president. It is deeply researched, elegantly written, balanced in its approach and insightful in its judgments of the man and his era. -TC", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-opposes-partisan-heroes-act-2-0", "Cole Opposes Speaker Pelosis HEROES Act 2.0", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after he voted against the Senate Amendments to H.R. 925, a coronavirus relief bill written solely by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats.\nUnfortunately, not a lot has changed since May, when Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats also peddled legislation focused more on securing radical policy items than delivering needed coronavirus relief. Crafted behind closed doors and without any Republican input whatsoever, again, their partisan HEROES Act 2.0' is also destined for nowhere. It will not pass the Republican-led Senate, and it will not be signed into law by President Trump. That is an unfair result for the American people, who are struggling and desperately need additional relief. They have for months.\nThe endless stalling and ongoing refusal of Speaker Pelosi to seriously negotiate something real with the Trump Administration is particularly disappointing when so many areas of bipartisan agreement already exist. Indeed, there are plenty of items that could pass both chambers separately and immediately, including a simple extension of the Paycheck Protection Program for struggling small businesses and their workers. Though Speaker Pelosi thinks we have to agree on everything before we can agree on anything, the fact is that we could be getting relief out the door right now. While we work out our difference on other matters, that's exactly what we should be doing.\nDuring rule debate for the legislation on the House floor yesterday, Cole made remarks in opposition. Transcript is available here and video here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/congressman-lucas-joins-johnson-conaway-introducing-cattle-reform-legislation", "Congressman Lucas Joins Johnson & Conaway in Introducing Cattle Reform Legislation", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) joined Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) and House Committee on Agriculture Ranking Member Mike Conaway (TX-11) in introducing thePrice Reform in Cattle Economies(PRICE)Act, a bill to increase transparency in the cattle market, improve risk management, and support new and expanding meat processors.\n\t\t\t\tOn July 22, 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the Box Beef & Fed Cattle Price Spread Investigation Report', which identified a number of systemic issues in the cattle market. Lucas joined Johnson and Conaway in introducing thePRICE Actin response to the findings of this report.\n\t\t\t\tFrom natural disasters to the fire in Holcomb, Kansas to the current health pandemic gripping our nation, cattle producers across our country have faced significant disruption. My chief concern is the well-being of my neighbors and the cattlemen and women who have been working diligently during these troubling times to continue to provide high-quality beef for the American consumer,said Congressman Lucas.Today, I'm proud to join Congressman Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) in introducing the PRICE Act, helping eliminate regulatory barriers for cattle ranchers and increasing the resources for these hard-working men and women. As we continue to weather economic and health conditions of the pandemic, Congress and USDA must provide solutions to ease the burdens currently felt by cattle ranchers.\n\t\t\t\tThe cattle market faced extreme volatility following the Tyson Holcomb plant fire in 2019 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. ThePRICE Actprovides greater price reporting and transparency, comprehensive risk management solutions, bolsters small processor and producer-owned cooperative processing opportunities, and updates the Packer and Stockyards Act to create a cattle contract library.\n\t\t\t\tCattle country is hurting and has not fully recovered,said Johnson.USDA laid out several areas where Congress can implement real solutions to improve the market  thePRICE Actis the answer to many of the issues our ranchers have faced for years. Our producers want a fair market and fair prices and that's what this bill delivers. Congress needs to deliver for cattle country.\n\t\t\t\tOur nation's cattle producers are facing unprecedented market challenges due to supply chain disruptions created by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as last year's fire at the Holcomb, KS beef plant,said Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Mike Conaway.I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing the PRICE Act, which offers a suite of consensus proposals that will improve the marketplace.\n\t\t\t\tThePRICE Actincludes several pieces of bipartisan proposals, including Lucas'Agricultural Security Risk Review ActandLivestock Risk Management & Education Act.\n\t\t\t\tThePRICE Actis cosponsored by Agriculture Committee Ranking Member Mike Conaway (R-TX), and Representatives Darren Soto (D-FL), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Greg Gianforte (R-MT), David Rouzer (R-NC), Rick Crawford (R-AR), Jason Smith (R-MO), Tom Emmer (R-MN), and Jim Hagedorn (R-MN). It is also supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.\n\t\t\t\tClickhereto read a summary of the bill,section by sectionorherefor the full bill text.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-instead-passing-partisan-heroes-act-20-congress-should-provide-real-help", "Lucas: Instead of Passing Partisan Heroes Act 2.0, Congress Should Provide Real Help", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 925, the Heroes Act 2.0:\n\t\t\t\tAt a time when 837,000 more Americans are filing for unemployment and small businesses are closing on Main Street, House Democrats are more focused on passing a messaging bill rather than a bipartisan bill that will actually provide relief to Americans and families across the nation. The bill passed by House Democrats tonight isn't realistic or responsible in the slightest, said Congressman Frank Lucas. Instead of drafting a bill solely by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congress should work together, as a bipartisan institution, with the Administration to provide real help for Oklahomans and millions more across America.\n\t\t\t\tFor more information on the Heroes Act 2.0, see information from the House Committee on Appropriations and the House Committee on Education & Labor.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/china-task-force-report-outlines-strategies-address-growing-threat-chinese", "China Task Force Report Outlines Strategies to Address Growing Threat from Chinese Communist Party", "2020-09-30", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, the China Task Force released adetailed policy blueprintto counter the growing global threat of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).\n\t\t\t\tThe China Task Force was comprised of 15 members representing 11 committees in the U.S. House of Representatives, including House Science, Space, and Technology Committee membersRep. Anthony Gonzalez(R-OH) andRep. Michael Waltz(R-FL).\n\t\t\t\tThe Task Force conducted a thorough analysis of the CCP's activities in six key areas: ideological competition, supply chain security, national security, technology, economics and energy, and competitiveness. Many recommendations, particularly on technology and competitiveness, represent priorities and legislation from Science Committee Republicans.\n\t\t\t\tLucas:\n\t\t\t\tRanking Member Frank Lucas praised the report and its recommendations, which are largely bipartisan. The threat we face from the Chinese Communist Party is one of our greatest generational challenges. The decisions we make now will have a lasting impact for decades to come,Lucassaid. The CCP intends to surpass us as the frontrunner in scientific knowledge and technological development, and they're committing extensive resources to crucial technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum information sciences, critical mineral development, and advanced manufacturing. Our continued global competitiveness requires us to invest in next-generation technologies and to protect our research from theft. I've introduced comprehensive legislation to double U.S. funding for basic research, improve our research infrastructure, and focus our efforts on the most important industries of the future. I'm glad that the Task Force recommended passing this billH.R. 5685, the bipartisan Securing American Leadership in Science and Technology Act. I especially want to thank Representative Anthony Gonzalez and Representative Michael Waltz for their contributions to this report. They've both done exceptional work to support American research and development, and to position our country to continue to lead the world in scientific innovation.\n\t\t\t\tGonzalez:\n\t\t\t\tRep. Gonzalez served as a co-chair of the pillars on Competitiveness, and Economics and Energy for the China Task Force and helped to craft and promote a number of policy and legislative proposals included in the report, including recommendations to promote U.S. leadership in emerging technologies and U.S. influence around the world.\n\t\t\t\tI firmly believe that the Chinese Communist Party is one of the largest threats facing our country today, and if we hope to protect our future economic success and national security, we must take action now to significantly recalibrate our relationship with the People's Republic of China and work to hold the Chinese Communist Party accountable on the global stage,said CongressmanGonzalez. From their persistent abuse of international organizations and agreements, to their neglect for the human rights of their own people and the deadly mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic that has now claimed the lives of over one million people, the Chinese Communist Party has demonstrated blatant irresponsibility and malign intent that cannot be allowed to continue unchecked to the detriment of the American people, our livelihoods, and our businesses.\n\t\t\t\tWaltz:\n\t\t\t\tRep. Waltz served as a co-chair of the pillars on Competitiveness and Ideological Competition and among his other Task Force work, has championed legislation to secure America's supply of critical minerals, which are necessary for technological development and national security.\n\t\t\t\tCritical minerals make America's technologies run,Waltzsaid. We use these technologies every day to operate our cell phones, power our military's defense aircraft and to generate clean energy. It's dangerous to be too reliant on another country for these minerals, especially one like China, which has threatened to cut off access to them. We need to bring our supply chain back to America  and I'm glad to see the China Task Force recommending my bill to do that.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tKEY RECOMMENDATIONS IN SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY:\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t- Doubling the funding of basic science and technology research over the next 10 years.\n\t\t\t\t\t- Increasing coordination and funding for STEM education to create a more capable, skilled workforce.\n\t\t\t\t\t- Maintaining a U.S. presence in low-Earth orbit, returning U.S. astronauts to the Moon, charting a future path for human exploration of Mars, and maintaining a steady commitment to space science missions.\n\t\t\t\t\t- Strengthening the protection of sensitive research at America's colleges and universities and leading research institutions which includes restricting all federal employees and contractors from participating in foreign talent programs.\n\t\t\t\t\t- Requiring colleges and universities to annually report all donations from the PRC.\n\t\t\t\t\t- Overhauling the federal permitting process for mineral development and prioritizing advancements in mineral refining so neither industry nor the Defense Industrial Base are reliant on the CCP.\n\t\t\t\t\t- Continuing to advance U.S. energy security in order to be a global counter against the PRC, particularly on the nuclear energy front.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tBACKGROUND:\n\t\t\t\tThe China Task Forceconducted more than 60 briefings with current and former top administration officials on both sides of the aisle, business executives, Ambassadors, and various outside experts. In total, the CTF engaged with more than 130 leaders to listen to their insights and solutions. After months of virtual and socially distanced, in-person classified and unclassified briefings, the CTF drafted this report with 82 key findings and more than 400 forward leaning recommendations.\n\t\t\t\tThe CTF prioritized recommendations that have bipartisan support and have already moved forward in the legislative process. As a result, well over half of the legislative recommendations are bipartisan and more than one-third have passed either the House or the Senate.\n\t\t\t\tTHE FULL REPORT IS AVAILABLE HERE\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-applauds-us-department-commerce-2-million-investment-boost-business-growth", "Lucas Applauds U.S. Department of Commerce $2 Million Investment to Boost Business Growth in Woodward", "2020-09-30", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced that the Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $2 million grant to the City of Woodward, Oklahoma to make building renovations at the Woodward Industrial Airpark:\n\t\t\t\tThe Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting locally-driven strategies that strengthen regional economies, create job growth, and increase business development throughout our local communities,said Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03). I thank Secretary Wilbur Ross and the EDA for their $2 million investment to help support Woodward's businesses following the 2018 fires. Western Oklahoma is no stranger to fires and other natural disasters, and today's investment will help Woodward's businesses expand and continue to rebuild.\n\t\t\t\tThe EDA grant will be matched with more than $1.2 million in local investment.\n\t\t\t\tThe Trump Administration understands that reliable and modern facilities are essential to business development and success,saidSecretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross.This project will provide necessary building improvements to spur business growth at Woodward's Industrial AirPark to make the region's economy more resilient in the face of future natural disasters.\n\t\t\t\tThe Economic Development Administration is pleased to support Woodward's strategy to maximize use of its Industrial AirPark,saidDana Gartzke, Performing the Delegated Duties of the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development.This project will open a 124,000 square foot industrial facility within the AirPark to new and expanding companies, creating economic opportunities for Woodward and mitigating regional impacts of the 2018 wildfires.\n\t\t\t\tThis $2 million EDA grant awarded to the city of Woodward is welcome news,said Senator Jim Inhofe. This funding will allow for needed building renovations at the Woodward Industrial Airpark. We know that airports are economic hubs for communities, and this investment will spur economic activity and job growth in the area. I am proud this federal investment is being met with $1.2 million in local investment.\n\t\t\t\tThisproject was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Oklahoma Economic Development Authority (OEDA), which EDA funds to bring together the public and private sectors to create an economic development roadmap to strengthen the regional economy, support private capital investment, and create jobs.\n\t\t\t\tThis project is funded by the Additional Supplemental Appropriations for Disaster Relief Act of 2019 (Pub. L. 116-20), which provided EDA with $600 million in additional Economic Adjustment Assistance (EAA) Program funds for disaster relief and recovery for areas affected by Hurricanes Florence, Michael, and Lane, Typhoons Yutu and Mangkhut, wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and other major natural disasters occurring in calendar year 2018, and tornadoes and floods occurring in calendar year 2019, under theRobert T. Stafford Act. Please visit EDA'sDisaster Supplemental webpagefor more information.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4332", "House Passes Mullin Bill to Break Down Health Data Barriers for Tribes", "2020-09-29", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "House Passes Mullin Bill to Break Down Health Data Barriers for Tribes \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        September 29, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) released the following statement after the House passed H.R. 7948, the Tribal Health Data Improvement Act, by voice vote. The bill would reaffirm Tribal public health authorities are entitled to access public health data.\r\nOur sovereign Tribal Nations and Tribal Epidemiology Centers were always supposed to have equal access to public health data that states, counties, and cities have. But for years, many Tribes have faced numerous challenges while trying to access this public health data, Mullin said. Now more than ever, Tribes need access to this data in order to make decisions for their communities and the Tribal Health Data Improvement Act makes that happen. I am glad this bill passed the full House today and I encourage the Senate to take it up quickly so Tribes don't have to wait any longer for the data they need.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/sustaining-small-businesses", "Sustaining Small Businesses", "2020-09-29", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Throughout most of this year, the coronavirus pandemic has greatly disrupted our lives and dealt harsh hits to our economy out of nowhere. Sadly, some of the most ruthless economic hits have been felt by America's small businesses. While the federal government has done a lot already to help save and sustain struggling small businesses and their workers, there is more that could be done if Speaker Nancy Pelosi would allow the U.S. House of Representatives to vote on a simple and commonsense piece of legislation related to the Paycheck Protection Program.\nFor background, the Trump Administration and Congress worked together earlier this year to create and provide initial funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) through passage of the CARES Act. As you might remember, once the PPP opened to potential applicants, it was so popular and successful that Congress replenished funding for the program just a few weeks later back in April. Since then, the PPP has saved approximately 51 million American jobs across the country. In Oklahoma alone, the PPP has directly helped more than 66,000 businesses stay afloat and retain their dedicated employees.\nWhile funding that Congress provided specifically for the PPP is not yet used up, the program unfortunately became closed to new applications on August 8  nearly two months ago. In fact, there is roughly $135 billion of unspent funds that could be helping small businesses if the program were reopened. Indeed, as the pandemic continues, pausing business as usual as we race toward a vaccine and cure, it is absolutely in our country's best interest to keep existing resources available to our small business job creators. As the lifeblood of our economy, small businesses are key in our nation's economic recovery in the short-term and the long-term.\nThough a simple extension of the PPP shouldn't be a point of contention, Speaker Pelosi has decided to make it one. Amid weeks of stalling meaningful negotiation with the Trump Administration for needed additional coronavirus relief, it seems Speaker Pelosi thinks it wise to hold a PPP extension hostage in the meantime. That approach is incredibly misguided. So too is her belief that Congress and the Administration must agree on everything before they can agree on anything in terms of another coronavirus relief bill. It's worth noting that members of her own party are becoming dissatisfied with Speaker Pelosi's tactics.\nI certainly hope that Speaker Pelosi will change course and put the livelihoods of the American people first. A worthwhile place to start would be consideration of legislation authored and introduced by House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot. His legislation would simply extend the PPP through the end of the year, make some practical modifications to the application process and enable certain eligible businesses to apply for a second loan. Last week, I was proud to sign a discharge petition led by Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler to allow a vote on the legislation. Once 218 signatures are collected, the petition will be able to force a vote in the House. While it is disappointing that Republicans must resort to a discharge petition to pressure Speaker Pelosi to free up money already provided and intended to aid small businesses, I am hopeful a majority of House members will sign it and allow this important vote to occur.\nAgain, this is not and should not be a controversial or partisan issue. It is a matter of protecting American livelihoods that remain at risk because of a deadly virus that originated in China. While we should all be encouraged by how rapidly the U.S. is racing toward a safe and effective vaccine to restore our way of life, struggling small business job creators need our help in the meantime. Congress can and should do its part by reopening the Paycheck Protection Program. However, as we were reminded last week during National Small Business Week, we can all help by supporting our favorite local businesses on Main Street. Even in this era of social distancing, there are plenty of ways we can show our support, whether by shopping online, ordering to-go or buying gift cards.\nFinally, while the coronavirus crisis has caused unprecedented hardships and challenges for us all, I am encouraged that Republicans are committed to working with President Trump to restore our way of life and rebuild our economy as quickly as possible. Remember, before the deadly invisible enemy struck the world, America's economy was booming and unemployment was at 50-year low. We can and will get there again. Indeed, one of the best ways we can recover and rebuild our economy is by helping small business job creators survive these difficult times. Our future success depends on their existence. Learn more at CommitmentToAmerica.com.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4331", "Mullin Signs Pledge to Stand with Police", "2020-09-28", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Signs Pledge to Stand with Police \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        September 28, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Today, Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) signed Heritage Action's Police Pledge to show his unwavering support for law enforcement officers and his opposition to any effort to defund the police.\r\nThe men and women of our law enforcement put their lives on the line each day to keep their communities safe and they deserve our full support, Mullin said. We are a nation of laws and the laws must be enforced. Defunding the police is not a serious answer to the issues our country is facing and will only lead to anarchy. I am proud to sign this pledge and stand with our nation's brave law enforcement officers.\r\nMore information on the pledge can be found here.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/news-stories/oklahoman-federal-grant-fund-veterans-cemetery-ardmore", "The Oklahoman: Federal grant to fund veterans cemetery in Ardmore", "2020-09-28", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Oklahoman - Chris Casteel\nThe state of Oklahoma has won a $7.3 million grant to build a veterans cemetery in Ardmore that can provide service for about 25,571 veterans and their eligible family members.\nThe brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon serve as the final resting place for our veteran heroes, said U.S. Rep. Tom Cole, R-Moore, who credited Ardmore and state officials for helping to secure the grant.\nThe money will come from the National Cemetery Administration, which is part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, but the cemetery will be part of the Oklahoma Veterans Department. There are two national veterans cemeteries in Oklahoma, in Fort Sill and Fort Gibson. There are also state veterans cemeteries in Oklahoma City, Ponca City and Seminole, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.\nLast year, the federal department cleared the first phase of a Cherokee Nation Veterans Cemetery.\nArdmore, a city of 25,000 about 90 miles south of Oklahoma City, is also home to a state veterans center.\nThe Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs prides itself in providing every service we can to our nation's heroes, said Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland.\nThe construction of this cemetery is another way for us to honor these Veterans and their service to our great country. We look forward to being able to provide a final resting place that represents the sacrifice these soldiers made and honor the public service of these great Veterans.\nThe grant will pay for 1,104 pre-placed crypts, 434 cremains gravesites, 600 niches for cremation urns, a main entrance, an administration building, a maintenance facility, roads, landscaping and supporting infrastructure on approximately 12 acres of land, according to the National Cemetery Administration.\nIt's an honor to partner with the Oklahoma to provide the Veterans in the Ardmore area a final resting place that is befitting their service and sacrifice,\" U.S. Under Secretary for Memorial Affairs Randy Reeves said. \"The Veterans Cemetery Grant Program is one of the finest examples of federal-state partnership in existence, delivering service to our veterans and value the American taxpayer.\"\nThe state did not provide a timetable for construction.\nArdmore City Manager J.D. Spohn said, As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I take great pride in working with federal, state and local officials to help make this project a reality. The city appreciates the efforts of the elected officials and citizen groups working together for several years to get to this day.\nU.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe and James Lankford, both Republicans, applauded the grant.\nThe Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs has worked for years to bring this final resting place to Oklahoma veterans and their eligible family members, Lankford said. I am grateful for ODVA's dedication to this task so we can continue to honor our fallen heroes with a local final resting place.\nOnline: The Oklahoman", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-statement-supporting-president-trump-s-executive-order-protecting", "Lucas Statement Supporting President Trumps Executive Order Protecting Americans with Pre-Existing Conditions & Ending Surprise Billing", "2020-09-28", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after President Trump, on Thursday, September 24, 2020, signed anExecutive Order on An America-First Healthcare Plan, aimed at protecting patients with pre-existing conditions and putting an end to surprise medical billing:\n\t\t\t\t\tAs a native to rural Oklahoma, challenges with access and affordable healthcare services often determine whether Oklahomans are able to remain in the communities they call home,said Congressman Lucas.I applaud the administration's recent health care announcement, theAmerica First Health Plan, which puts patients first by bringing efficient and quality healthcare to all Americans. The plan protects patients with pre-existing conditions, lowers health care costs for seniors, and protects patients against disastrous and unfair surprise medical billing.\n\t\t\t\t\tLucas continued,This announcement is an important step in the right direction in healthcare reform. Moving forward, Congress must continue to work together and find commonsense solutions to our challenges affecting Oklahomans, and those throughout the country.\n\t\t\t\t\tBackground:\n\t\t\t\t\tPresident Trump'sExecutive Order on An America-First Healthcare Planhelps improve care for the American people, especially the most vulnerable; lowers healthcare costs for Americans; and continues the President's plan to provide Americans with more healthcare options to put patients and doctors back in control.\n\t\t\t\t\tUnder the Executive Order, President Trump has declared it policy of the Federal Government to:\n\t\t\t\t\t- Protect individuals with pre-existing conditions and ensure they have access to care they can afford,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t- End surprise billing and send prescription drug discount cards to over 33 million seniors,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t- Allow the import of prescription drugs from Canada and allow low-income Americans to purchase affordable insulin and Epi-Pens at nearly 10,000 Federal clinic locations,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t- Improve access to direct primary care arrangements that cut out the middleman and cut bureaucratic red tape,\n\t\t\t\t\t\t- Invest in critical areas, including pediatric cancer, Sickle Cell Disease, and Alzheimer's research.\n\t\t\t\t\tFor more on the President's America-First Healthcare Plan, clickhere.\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-on-nomination-amy-coney-barrett", "Cole Statement on Nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court", "2020-09-26", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Moore, OK  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States.\nIn nominating Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court, President Donald Trump is fulfilling his constitutional obligation, and he is right to do so, said Cole. The president has absolutely made an exceptional choice with this nomination. Indeed, Judge Barrett is well qualified to serve for her educational and career credentials alone. But most important of all, she deeply respects the United States Constitution and has devoted her life to defending it.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4330", "Toomey, Manchin, Rouda, and Mullin Team Up to Help Overdose Victims", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senators Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and U.S. Representatives Harley Rouda (D-Calif. 48th) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla. 2nd) are working together to provide greater assistance to individuals who have struggled with opioid misuse and abuse.\r\n\r\nThe Improving Medicaid Programs' Response to Overdose Victims and Enhancing (IMPROVE) Addiction Care Act would require state Medicaid programs to use jointly-funded drug utilization review programs to increase access to treatment and boost safeguards for those on Medicaid who have experienced a non-fatal, opioid-related overdose. The legislation would close a dangerous information gap that keeps prescribers uninformed about a patient who overdoses.\r\n\r\nIn 2018, Congress passed theSUPPORT for Patients and Communities Actresulting in Medicare Part D plan sponsors being notified of individuals with a history of opioid-related overdoseno notification or case management was previously required solely based on previous non-fatal overdose occurrence, despite studies linking previous non-fatal overdoses to subsequent fatal overdoses.\r\n\r\nNo corner of Pennsylvania has been spared from the opioid epidemic,said Senator Toomey. Physicians need to know if they've prescribed a lethal dose of opioids to a patient. The IMPROVE Addiction Care Act will ultimately promote better prescribing habits and help those battling addiction get the care they clearly need. I thank Senator Manchin and Representatives Rouda and Mullin for working with me on this bipartisan bill, and I hope we are able to get this to the president's desk before the end of the year.\r\n\r\nEvery West Virginian has experienced the impacts of the opioid epidemic on our family, friends, and neighbors. Today I joined my bipartisan, bicameral colleagues in introducing theIMPROVE Addiction Care Actto strengthen Drug Utilization Review programs across the nation to prevent opioid overdoses by helping to better connect Medicaid patients to treatment options. Americans who have overdosed need our help getting back on their feet through treatment programs, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and in both chambers to support this commonsense legislation,said Senator Manchin.\r\n\r\n\"Orange County has the highest opioid overdose mortality rate in Southern California. I am proud to join Senator Toomey, Senator Manchin, and Representative Mullin in this bipartisan effort to close dangerous prescription loopholes, increase access to treatment, and save lives,\"said Representative Rouda. \"The IMPROVE Addiction Care Act is a strategic and cost-effective measure to connect struggling Americans with crucial medical care. Congress must pass this bill to help end a devastating public health crisis in Orange County and across the United States.\"\r\n\r\nIn order to safely and effectively treat a patient who has previously experienced a non-fatal overdose, it is critical prescribers have access to their patient's overdose history in order to prevent it from happening again,said Representative Mullin. This legislation breaks down barriers to help Medicaid beneficiaries get access to the treatment they need and ensure providers have a clear picture of the patient's history with opioid-related overdoses. We all know someone who has been affected by the opioid epidemic, whether it's a family member or loved one, and it's going to take all of us working together to put an end to this crisis.\r\n\r\nSpecifically, the IMPROVE Addiction Care Act requires that states use drug utilization review programs to:\r\n \r\n    Alert: Ensure that doctors are aware if their Medicaid-enrolled patient has suffered a previous nonfatal overdose and alert the prescriber when one of their patients suffers a fatal overdose\r\n    Treat: Connect recent opioid overdose survivors who receive Medicaid benefits with treatment opportunities\r\n    Educate: Perform ongoing reviews and offer provider education\r\n \r\n\r\nArecent studyof 3,606 Medicaid-enrolled adolescents (ages 13-22) who experienced an opioid-related overdose found that only one in 54 received medication-assisted treatment and less than one in three received any treatment whatsoever. Equally concerning, Medicaid beneficiaries often continue receiving legal opioid prescriptions even after suffering a nonfatal, opioid-related overdose.Approximately 60 percentof Pennsylvania Medicaid beneficiaries who suffered a nonfatal overdose between 2007 and 2013 received another legal opioid analgesic prescription within six months.Boston University and Harvard Medical Schoolfound that 91 percent of patients who suffered an opioid-related overdose between 2000 and 2012 received another legal opioid prescription within a year.\r\n\r\nYoumay view the full text here. Aone page summary is also available here.\r\n\r\nSupporting Organizations include:\r\n \r\n    Opioid Safety Alliance\r\n    Society of Behavioral Medicine\r\n    American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry\r\n    Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC)\r\n    American Society of Addiction Medicine", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-signs-discharge-petition-to-allow-ppp-extension-vote", "Cole Signs Discharge Petition to Allow Vote on PPP Extension", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today signed a discharge petition led by Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) calling for a vote on H.R. 8265, to extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) through the end of the year and release roughly $135 billion of unspent funds provided by Congress for the program. Authored by House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Steve Chabot (OH-01), H.R. 8265 would also modify the application process and enable certain eligible businesses to apply for a second forgivable loan.\nIt is disappointing that Republicans must resort to a discharge petition to pressure Speaker Pelosi to free up money already provided and intended to aid small businesses struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic, said Cole. Since it was created, the Paycheck Protection Program has helped millions of small businesses keep their doors open and their workers employed. As the race for a vaccine continues in order to restore our way of life, Congress should ensure vital and existing PPP aid remains available. Indeed, it is simply commonsense to renew the program so that it can help even more American job creators weather the storm. This is not and should not be a controversial or partisan issue. It is a matter of protecting American livelihoods that remain at risk because of a deadly virus that originated in China. I urge Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats to allow a vote on this simple PPP extension legislation.\nFor the discharge petition to allow consideration of and a vote on the legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives, it must receive 218 signatures from lawmakers. Signatures can be collected on a rolling basis throughout this Congress.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-chats/september-25-2020", "Rep. Cole's Weekly Chat", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "September 25, 2020", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/news-stories/kfor-oklahoma-receives-grant-create-state-veterans-cemetery", "KFOR: Oklahoma receives grant to create state veterans cemetery", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "KFOR - K. Querry\nARDMORE, Okla. (KFOR)  Veterans in Oklahoma will soon be able to be laid to rest in a State Veterans Cemetery after a recent announcement by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.\nThe U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration awarded a $7,355,463 grant to the state of Oklahoma to establish a State Veterans Cemetery.\nOfficials say the cemetery will be located in Ardmore.\nThe City of Ardmore is honored to be chosen as the site for the State Veterans Cemetery,said Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn.As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I take great pride in working with federal, state and local officials to help make this project a reality. The City appreciates the efforts of the elected officials and citizen groups working together for several years to get to this day.\nThe Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs prides itself in providing every service we can to our nation's heroes,said Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland.The construction of this cemetery is another way for us to honor these Veterans and their service to our great country. We look forward to being able to provide a final resting place that represents the sacrifice these soldiers made and honor the public service of these great Veterans.\nThe grant will fund the construction of 1,104 pre-placed crypts, 434 cremains gravesites, 600 columbarium niches, a main entrance, an administration building, a maintenance facility, road, landscaping and a memorial walkway on 12 acres of land.\nOfficials say the cemetery will provide service for approximately 25,571 veterans and their eligible family members.\nI am very encouraged to learn that Oklahoma is receiving support to construct a cemetery that brings lasting and well-deserved honor to our heroic veterans,said Congressman Tom Cole.The brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon serve as the final resting place for our veteran heroes. I want to recognize the dedicated efforts and attention of numerous individuals in the Ardmore community, who over many years advocated for this important project. Thank you to Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn, State Senator Frank Simpson, State Representative Tommy Hardin as well as former Representative Pat Ownbey and Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland, Ardmore Veterans Center Administrator Marsha Huddleston and Rear Admiral Wesley Hull for their tireless work and commitment to making this happen.\nOnline: KFOR", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-signs-discharge-petition-house-revive-paycheck-protection-program", "Lucas Signs Discharge Petition in House to Revive Paycheck Protection Program", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) joined Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) and House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (OH-01) in signing Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler's (WA-03)discharge petitionin the U.S. House of Representatives to force a vote to extend the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), a lifeline for small businesses in Oklahoma's Third District and across the country.\n\t\t\t\tAcross Oklahoma, small businesses are on the brink of closure. Through no fault of their own, Main Street businesses throughout the Third District have had to scale back business hours and lay off dedicated employees just to stay afloat during the pandemic,said Congressman Lucas.One critical program that has helped more than 66,000 Oklahoma small businesses is the Paycheck Protection Program. Sadly, last month, this vital program expired with $135 billion left unspent, leaving many small businesses without a lifeline to weather the pandemic's economic conditions. While Speaker Pelosi has failed to address this lapse and has called targeted legislation on unemployment benefits and the Paycheck Protection Program piecemeal', my House Republican colleagues and I are working to force a vote to bring this common-sense legislation up on the House Floor. I thank my colleague, Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler, for leading this discharge petition to extend the Paycheck Protection Program, and I hope this bill can see a vote on the House Floor so that Oklahoman businesses and employees can continue to receive the help they need.\n\t\t\t\tThe discharge petition, should it garner the required 218 signatures from the U.S. House of Representatives, will then allow the House tobring to the floor a bill, authored by House Small Business Committee Ranking Member Rep. Steve Chabot (OH-01), to distribute the remaining nearly$135 billion in current PPP fundssitting idle after the program's August 8 expiration. Speaker Nancy Pelosi hasrejectedcalls for passing a temporary extension of unemployment benefits and other relief programs separate from a larger coronavirus relief package.\n\t\t\t\tThis public health crisis has left our small businesses near permanent closure, and that will happen on a massive scale if Congress doesn't act. Yet Congress isn't acting, so I've filed the discharge petition in the House today so we can bypass the political posturing and bring relief to our nation's small businesses and their employees. Other relief remains vital, but we either save jobs and businesses now or provide triage soon for the damage caused by empty buildings, lost livelihoods and health care plans, and fewer employment opportunities overall. Reviving the PPP has to be our priority,Herrera Beutler said.The Paycheck Protection Program has served as a critical lifeline for America's small businesses. Since its launch, the program is credited with saving 51 million jobs nationwide. But our work in helping small business owners stay open and keep employees on payroll is not done. A recent report indicates that as many as 36 percent small businesses say if no new funding comes from Congress soon, they will be forced to lay off workers or cut back hours. Democrats have consistently blocked or delayed relief, but Republicans are not giving up. That is why House Republicans, led by Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler have filed a discharge petition to force a vote on a stand-alone extension of the Paycheck Protection Program through the end of the year. It only needs 218 signatures to force a vote, so I hope that our Democrat colleagues will join us in delivering relief. My Republican colleagues and I will continue to act on our Commitment to America; we will be relentless in our fight to protect jobs, small businesses, and the American dream,House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy said.\n\t\t\t\tSince March, small businessescorner stores, retail shops, and family restaurantshave been struggling to survive.Congress worked in a bipartisan manner to pass the CARES Act, which delivered rapid assistance to small firms through programs like the Paycheck Protection Program.Unfortunately, in recent months, additional relief for small businesses has been caught up in the partisan logjam and the livelihoods of real people hang in the balance. Congress must work togetherto get help to small businesses in Washington, Ohio, and across our great nation.Rep. Herrera Beutler's discharge petition to force a vote on my legislation is the way to do just that.I thank her for her leadership on behalf of America's small businesses,House Committee on Small Business Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) said.\n\t\t\t\tMultiple news outlets, includingRoll CallandThe Hill, are reporting that several House Democrats are strongly considering bucking their party to sign Herrera Beutler's discharge petition.\n\t\t\t\tAs of yesterday,Politicois reporting that House Democrats are pressuring Democratic Leadership to work on a bipartisan COVID relief, citing Herrera Beutler's discharge petition as the motivating factor.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-signs-pledge-stand-our-police", "Lucas Signs Pledge to Stand With Our Police", "2020-09-25", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. This week, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) signed Heritage Action'sPolice Pledge, a pledge to show his unwavering support for our nation's law enforcement officers and commitment to opposing any legislative efforts to defund the police. After signing the pledge, Congressman Lucas issued the following statement:\n\t\t\t\tOklahoma's law enforcement officers, and hundreds of thousands more across the United States, risk their lives every single day to ensure the freedoms and property of every single individual are protected. Our communities are forever indebted to the men and women of America's police departments who take an oath to uphold the law and carry out their responsibility to serve and protect,said Congressman Lucas.We need our law enforcement, which is why I oppose any legislative attempt to Defund the Police' and, why I'll always stand with the men and women in blue who protect our communities.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThe fullpledgecan be found below:A lawful societyfree from mob rule and violent insurrectionis not possible without Law Enforcement.Police Officers have chosen a noble profession. They dedicate their lives to upholding the law and protecting the sacred rights of their fellow citizens. As a profession, they deserve support and respect.I stand with America's Police and pledge to oppose any bill, resolution, or movement to Defund the Police.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4329", "Mullin Opposes Democrats Energy Package", "2020-09-24", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Opposes Democrats' Energy Package \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        September 24, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement after the House passed the Democrats' partisan energy package. Mullin was not present for the vote due to supporting his son's ongoing rehabilitation from a wrestling injury but would have voted no on the bill.\r\nWe truly need an all-of-the-above energy strategy in order to keep the lights on at a price American families can afford. This legislation does the exact opposite, Mullin said. With a total price tag of more than $135 billion and heavy-handed government regulations, the Democrats' energy package is another step towards socialism. It leaves rural communities in the dust by prioritizing cities and would jeopardize all the progress our country has made in becoming energy independent. It's unfortunate they took a bipartisan bill to improve renewable energy storage in rural areas and packed it full of radical energy priorities that will result in unreliable, expensive energy for consumers.\r\nH.R. 4447 was initially introduced by Mullin and passed unanimously out of the Energy and Commerce Committee earlier this month. Before bringing it to the House floor for a vote, Democratic Leadership added nearly 900 pages worth of unrelated provisions to the bill, creating a partisan energy package that will never become law.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/state-veterans-cemetery-to-be-established-ardmore", "State Veterans Cemetery to be Established in Ardmore", "2020-09-24", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Cemetery Administration (NCA) awarded a $7,355,463 grant to the state of Oklahoma for the establishment of a State Veterans Cemetery. The cemetery will be located in Ardmore, which is in the Fourth District of Oklahoma.\nI am very encouraged to learn that Oklahoma is receiving support to construct a cemetery that brings lasting and well-deserved honor to our heroic veterans, said Congressman Tom Cole. The brave men and women who have defended our country deserve the utmost respect, and I am proud that Ardmore will soon serve as the final resting place for our veteran heroes. I want to recognize the dedicated efforts and attention of numerous individuals in the Ardmore community, who over many years advocated for this important project. Thank you to Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn, State Senator Frank Simpson, State Representative Tommy Hardin as well as former Representative Pat Ownbey and Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland, Ardmore Veterans Center Administrator Marsha Huddleston and Rear Admiral Wesley Hull for their tireless work and commitment to making this happen.\nThe City of Ardmore is honored to be chosen as the site for the State Veterans Cemetery, said Ardmore City Manager J. D. Spohn. As a Marine Corps veteran myself, I take great pride in working with federal, state and local officials to help make this project a reality. The City appreciates the efforts of the elected officials and citizen groups working together for several years to get to this day\".\nI am very excited that Oklahoma has received this wonderful gift that will help construct the first State Veterans Cemetery to be operated by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, said Oklahoma State Senator Frank Simpson. We will be able to provide our state's veterans with a beautiful final resting place that honors their service and their sacrifice to our great nation. I want to thank my fellow veterans, the City of Ardmore, the Oklahoma and U.S. Departments of Veterans Affairs, Congressman Tom Cole and his great staff, my good friend and former Representative Pat Ownbey and the many local citizens who advocated on behalf of our heroes.\nThe Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs prides itself in providing every service we can to our nation's heroes, said Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Director of Homes Shawn Kirkland. The construction of this cemetery is another way for us to honor these Veterans and their service to our great country. We look forward to being able to provide a final resting place that represents the sacrifice these soldiers made and honor the public service of these great Veterans.\nIt is great news that the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs has approved funding for the final resting place for America's heroes who have provided the freedoms and liberties that all Americans enjoy, said Rear Admiral Wesley Hull. I am honored to have worked on this program. The completion of the Ardmore Veterans Cemetery will commemorate the valor and patriotism of America's veterans who have contributed so much to the cause of world peace and the preservation of our way of life. I extend my thanks to Congressman Cole and his staff for all the support they have provided. The Veterans Cemetery will be a place of honor to show the respect that our community, state and the nation have for the American Veteran and their families.\nThe NCA grant will fund the construction of 1,104 pre-placed crypts, 434 cremains gravesites, 600 columbarium niches, a main entrance, an administration building, a maintenance facility, roads, an assembly area, landscaping, a memorial walkway and supporting infrastructure on approximately 12 acres, enabling the cemetery to provide service for approximately 25,571 veterans and their eligible family members.\nLearn more about the grant awarded for the State Veterans Cemetery in Ardmore here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-on-house-passage-hr-8337", "Cole Statement on House Passage of H.R. 8337", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 8337, a short-term continuing resolution to fund the federal government through December 11, 2020. Cole supported the legislation to prevent a government shutdown.\nWhile a short-term measure to keep the government funded is not ideal, it's far better than the alternative. In the days ahead, I remain hopeful that full-year funding can be negotiated and agreed to in a bipartisan way for the upcoming fiscal year. But in the interim, I am grateful that both sides could ultimately come to the table to prevent a government shutdown, ensuring vital programs and services continue for millions of Americans while also delivering needed support for our struggling farmers and ranchers and replenishing aid to continue nutritious meals for low-income children.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/promising-steps-toward-peace", "Promising Steps Toward Peace", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With numerous topics dominating the news cycle this year, I wanted to make sure you didn't miss an historic event that took place last week related to peace and security in the Middle East. While the area is often known for its unrest, the Trump Administration has never given up on fostering peace and bringing greater stability to the region. Indeed, President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo have made it a priority to encourage the normalization of nation-to-nation relationships involving Israel, one of our greatest allies and most faithful friends. The historic signing of the Abraham Accords last week symbolized the culmination of these diplomatic efforts and marked a major step toward lasting peace. \nFor background, Israel was first established as an independent state on May 14, 1948, upon the declaration of the Jewish People's Council and following years of land disputes. About a year later, the United Nations officially recognized Israel's existence through admittance into its organization. However, nearly 75 years since Israel first declared its independence, there are still 29 countries around the world, including several of its Arab and Muslim neighbors, that refuse to acknowledge Israel's right to exist. Aside from peace treaties signed with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994, Israel has historically lacked or had strained diplomatic relations with several of its neighbors. That status changed last week.\nBefore Israel opened a diplomatic office in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 2015, the two countries didn't have a workable relationship to speak of. Five years later and following peace talks initiated and facilitated by the Trump Administration, Israel agreed to suspend the annexation of the West Bank, a territory in the region that has long been a point of contention. Israel's show of good faith and willingness to compromise on that matter marked a significant step toward normalizing its relations with the UAE. As a result, the two countries formally reached a peace agreement in principle last month.\nFollowing this historic announcement related to the future between the UAE and Israel, the Abraham Accords were signed last week to make it official. During the ceremony on the White House lawn, leaders from Israel and the UAE as well as the Kingdom of Bahrain were all in attendance, symbolizing their shared pursuit of peace, security and prosperity in the Middle East and around the world. This moment also signified a shared desire to improve their relations for the purpose of promoting mutually beneficial endeavors like investments, tourism, technology, energy, healthcare and security. Considering the history of Israel's presence in the Middle East, the fact that two countries in the region are willing to normalize their relations with the nation state is incredibly significant. No other president has delivered such a diplomatic achievement toward peace in the region in more than two decades.\nTo demonstrate my support of the recent peace agreements brokered by the Trump Administration, I am a proud cosponsor of bipartisan legislation that expresses approval of the normalization of these relationships. The legislation also urges other countries in the region to follow suit and pursue peace with Israel.\nWhile diplomatic efforts remain critical and must continue in the Middle East, the Trump Administration has paved the way for nation-to-nation relationships between three countries that will certainly support their shared prosperity in the future. This is an historic first step toward bringing lasting peace to the region. I am hopeful these recent breakthroughs will inspire other nations to also seek peace and pave the way for shared prosperity for the good of their people.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-votes-fund-government-provide-ccc-funds", "Lucas Votes to Fund Government, Provide CCC Funds", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 8337- the Continuing Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2021 and Other Extensions Act. Lucas supported the continuing resolution, which extends government funding through December 11, 2020.\n\t\t\t\tOne of the most fundamental duties of Congress is to fund the government and keep it open and operational. That duty becomes even more essential as Congress, the Trump Administration, and the American people grapple with the unprecedented challenges brought by the coronavirus pandemic,said Congressman Lucas.The measure passed by the House not only keeps the government's lights on, but it also keeps critical programs funded and operational, including vital Farm Bill programs providing ongoing COVID-19 relief to America's farmers and ranchers.\n\t\t\t\tLucas continued,While I support the legislation passed by the House, Congress must not continue its legacy of passing continuing resolutions after continuing resolutions. For years, Washington has relied on broken budgets and spending practices that have shown to be detrimental to governmental operations. Congress cannot continue to kick the can down the road.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4321", "Mullin Applauds Passage of Bills to Address Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women", "2020-09-21", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) today applauded the passage of two bills he cosponsored to help address the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women. S. 227, Savanna's Act, and S. 982, the Not Invisible Act, both passed the House unanimously and now head to President Trump's desk.\r\nThe silent crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women is wreaking havoc on our families and our communities,said Mullin.Our priority must be to protect native women and children and all parties have to work together to end this epidemic of violence. Savanna's Act and the Not Invisible Act give our law enforcement officers the tools they need to address the crisis and will help prevent our sisters from becoming a statistic. I was proud to cosponsor both of these bills and I look forward to seeing President Trump sign them into law soon.\r\nS. 227, Savanna's Act, would require the Department of Justice to make standardized law enforcement and justice protocols that serve as guidelines for law enforcement agencies with regard to missing and murdered Native Americans, develop protocols to investigate those cases, meet certain consultation requirements, and provide Tribes and law enforcement agencies with training and technical assistance to develop and implement the law enforcement and justice protocols.\r\nS. 982, the Not Invisible Act, would establish an advisory committee on violent crime made up of law enforcement, Tribal leaders, federal partners, service providers, and survivors to make recommendations to the Department of Interior and Department of Justice and establish best practices for law enforcement on combatting the epidemic of missing persons, murder, and trafficking of Native Americans and Alaska Natives. Additionally, this legislation will ensure that the unique challenges faced by Tribal communities are considered when combatting crime, violence, and human trafficking.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-on-passing-of-ruth-bader-ginsburg", "Cole Statement on Passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg", "2020-09-18", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after learning about the passing of Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who served on the Supreme Court of the United States for 27 years.\nAmerica has lost a remarkable icon and tenacious legal mind with the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg devoted her life's work to study and understanding of the law, and she fought for what she believed was right and just. Whether you agreed with her legal opinions or not, she was admired across the political divide. My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with Justice Ginsburg's family, friends and many loved ones as they mourn this heavy and difficult loss.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/news/press-releases/lucas-statement-passing-supreme-court-justice-ruth-bader-ginsburg", "Lucas Statement on Passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg", "2020-09-18", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Cheyenne, OK Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement on the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has served on the United States Supreme Court since August 10, 1993.\n\t\t\t\tI am saddened tonight to learn of the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. While our ideology often differed, Justice Ginsburg was a trailblazer for women in law, a devoted advocate of equality and civil rights, and a jurist of historic stature. During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with the family Justice Ginsburg and her colleagues of the United States Supreme Court.\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 91, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Senate", "p1": "OK", "p2": "2020"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=OK&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 91, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=OK&year=2020&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=OK&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 91, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=OK&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "OK", "label": "OK", "count": 91, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=OK&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 91, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=OK", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 142.92710088193417, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}