{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"OK\" and year = 2018 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-appointed-ranking-member-house-rules-committee", "Cole Appointed Ranking Member of House Rules Committee", "2018-12-28", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Norman, OK  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he was appointed by Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy to serve as Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee in the 116th Congress. Ranking Member is the top Republican leadership position on this important panel. Before consideration on the House floor, every piece of legislation must first pass through the Rules Committee.\nGoing into the new Congress, I am honored to serve as Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, said Cole. I am grateful to Leader McCarthy for appointing me to serve in this key role on behalf of House Republicans and entrusting me to lead. While divided government is challenging, the American people are still counting on Congress to govern. Without question, the Rules Committee is an essential piece in the process of fulfilling that duty effectively. In my new role, I look forward to continuing to serve on the Rules panel and working with my colleagues to ensure Republicans remain heard and influential.\nPrior to this appointment, Cole has served numerous stints on the House Rules Committee. He first served as a member from 2004 to 2006; he was then reappointed in 2013 in the 113th Congress and has remained on the panel during each consecutive Congress. Since 2017, he has served as Vice Chairman of the committee.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/building-safer-communities", "Building Safer Communities", "2018-12-24", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "While negotiations to fully fund the government unfortunately remain underway in the Senate, I am pleased to report that lawmakers in both chambers of Congress did recently complete work on bipartisan legislation to improve the federal justice system. Already signed into law by the president and focused on building safer communities, the FIRST STEP Act ushers in common sense solutions to discourage repeat criminal offenders and ensure fair sentencing.\nOne of the key reforms included in the comprehensive law is aimed at identifying which federal prisoners might be capable and deserving of a second chance. This is accomplished through a new system to assess the risk and needs of each federal prisoner and help set them on the fairest and most appropriate rehabilitation path forward. To be sure, this does not mean that dangerous and violent criminals are able to walk free or serve less time for their crimes. Rather, the FIRST STEP Act seeks to keep prisoners from ending up behind bars again for the same crimes after returning to society. Further, it seeks to equip and encourage those who want to change while they serve their time.\nWith the goal of reducing recidivism, the legislation reauthorizes several programs from the Second Chance Act of 2007. This includes educational and job training programs with proven results. The legislation also encourages prisoner participation in some faith-based programs.\nAlong with programming to help prisoners from falling back on past behavior, the FIRST STEP Act makes some small changes to current sentencing laws. For example, the legislation addresses outdated sentences now considered too harsh under the Fair Sentencing Act. Again, this does not mean that sentences are reduced for dangerous, violent and high-risk criminals or repeat offenders and career criminals.\nWhile the FIRST STEP Act specifically deals with the federal correctional system, the changes will undoubtedly make a difference in the total population of incarcerated personsthat is, prisoners serving time in either a local, state or federal facility. In Oklahoma, the rate of incarceration is particularly troubling. According to the latest report from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, Oklahoma's incarceration rate in 2016 was the second highest in the nation.\nWithout question, Congress and the Administration delivered a historic legislative achievement with the FIRST STEP Act. It rightly focuses on the population of low-level, non-violent federal prisoners already on track to eventually be released and paves a better way for them to become productive members of society. Indeed, this fair yet compassionate legislation affirms that lives can be redeemed. Along with those across the political spectrum and various coalitions that even include members of law enforcement, I am proud to have supported this important legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-the-first-step-act", "Inhofe Statement on the First Step Act", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Statement on the First Step Act\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 21, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after President Trump signed the First Step Act, a bipartisan, comprehensive criminal justice reform package. Sen. Inhofe voted in favor of the legislation earlier this week.\r\nI'm a law-and-order kind of guy, and one of the things I appreciated most about this bill is that it lets faith based groups like Prison Fellowship operate more comprehensively in federal prisons to help reduce recidivism rates. The bill emphasizes education, job training and rehabilitation programs for inmates so they can reenter society as productive citizens. While there were more reforms I supported and wish had been adopted, this bill will provide a second chance for those who work for it. \r\nCriminal Justice reform is needed for the advancement of public safety efforts within our Tulsa community, said Deputy Chief of Police Jonathan Brooks, City of Tulsa Police Department. The First Step starts this process by providing much needed alternatives for rehabilitation plus added discretion in sentencing for qualifying lower level crimes. We applaud the collaborative efforts of all parties that worked on this bill and the work of our local Senator, Jim Inhofe.\r\nBackground\r\nThe comprehensive package aims to reduce crime by helping low-risk inmates prepare to successfully rejoin society through participation in proven recidivism reduction programs.The bill upholds constitutional responsibilities by ensuring judges have greater sentencing authority for certain low-level, nonviolent drug offenders who cooperate with law enforcement and preserves the maximum potential sentences for violent and career criminals.\r\nTheFirst Step Actincludes strong safeguards that prevent career and violent criminals from receiving earned time credits toward pre-release custody following completion of recidivism reduction programs.TheFirst Step Actis modeled after state-based reforms, like Oklahoma, that have proven to reduce crime, prison populations and taxpayer expenses.\r\nTheFirst Step Actis backed by a number of law enforcement groups, including thenation's largest police group. It's alsosupported by 172 former federal prosecutorsincluding two former Republican U.S. attorneys general, two former deputy attorneys general and a former director of the FBI along withsheriffs from 34 statesacross the country. The National Governor's Association, which represents the governors of all 50 states,praised the bill. A broad coalition of conservative and progressive groups along with a host of business leaders and faith-based organizations also support theFirst Step Act.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-leads-letter-to-secretary-pompeo", "Senator Lankford Leads Letter to Secretary Pompeo", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Leads Letter to Secretary Pompeo \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined eight Senators to send a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo regarding the use of American tax dollars to lobby for abortions in Latin America. The Senators expressed concern to Secretary Pompeo about the Department of State's lack of enforcement of the Siljander Amendment, which prevents State Department funds from being used to lobby about abortion.The concern stems from the fact that as the Department continues to fund Latin American organizations that lobby pro-life countries to legalize abortion. The Senators joining the letter are Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC), Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), Senator John Kennedy (R-LA), Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY), and Senator Mike Lee (R-UT).\r\nFor the signed letter, please CLICK HERE.\r\nDecember 21, 2018 \r\nThe Honorable Mike Pompeo  Secretary of State  U.S. Department of State  2201 C. Street, N.W.  Washington, D.C. 20520\r\nDear Mr. Secretary:\r\n We write to express our concern about the use of United States taxpayer funds by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and Inter-American Commission on Women (CIM) to lobby for abortion in Latin America in direct contravention of U.S. law.\r\n As you know, since 1981, the Siljander amendment to the FY1982 Foreign Assistance and Related Programs Appropriations Act has specified that no U.S. funds appropriated under the Foreign Operations Appropriations Act may be used to lobby for or against abortion.Unfortunately, this important federal law is currently not being properly enforced by the U.S. Department of State, which continues to fund organs of the Organization of American States (OAS), such as IACHR and CIM, while they aggressively lobby pro-life sovereign nations to legalize abortion.\r\nTime and again, IACHR and CIM have taken it upon themselves to be at the vanguard of those lobbying for the legalization of abortion in a region where a great majority of the member states have chosen to protect the right to life in their constitutions and laws.These ideologically-motivated actions are especially egregious when one considers the American Convention on Human Rights, the region's primary human rights treaty, recognizes that [e]very person has the right to have his life respected from the moment of conception. \r\n A brief survey of public statements issued by IACHR this past year illustrates its brazen pro-abortion advocacy. Specifically, IACHR has made direct public statements of support for the legalization of abortion in countries such as Chile, El Salvador, and Argentina to influence the ongoing legislative debates in those sovereign nations. In Chile, IACHR wrote, the IACHR Welcomes Approval of Law Decriminalizing Abortion ; similarly, IACHR urged El Salvador to End the Total Criminalization of Abortion .In Argentina, IACHR Commissioner made an official visit to coincide with the intense national legislative debate and declared women have the right to autonomy to decide how they use their bodies, and the state has to ensure those rights. This open lobbying for abortion is part of what IACHR euphemistically calls Comprehensive, Immediate Measures to Respect and Protect Women's Sexual and Reproductive Rights. \r\n IACHR is not alone at the OAS in its aggressive lobbying in favor of abortion.CIM, a specialized organ of the OAS, routinely misrepresents the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication against Women, by pretending it created a right to abortion and other so-called sexual and reproductive rights.The text of the convention mentions neither term.Nevertheless, CIM aggressively lobbies in favor of the legalization of abortion under the guise of its mandate to implement the convention, repeatedly pressuring member states to legalize the interruption of pregnancy. \r\n Mr. Secretary, these are just a few of countless brazen attempts to misuse the OAS, which receives a majority of its regular funds from the United States taxpayers, to lobby and coerce pro-life nations into legalizing abortion. Not only is this illegal under United States law, but we believe it is also harmful to the interests of the United States.\r\nCritical to the organizing principles of the OAS, and to the rule of law, is the duty on the part of OAS to respect the sovereignty of member states by limiting its powers strictly to those conferred upon it by the Charter and subsequent properly ratified treaties. Unfortunately, in matters relating to the right to life and specifically to abortion, the IAHCR and CIM have completely ignored the OAS mandate to protect the right to life in favor of an ideological commitment to abortion. \r\n Mr. Secretary, sovereignty is the inherent right of nations to live according to their own values. No right is more central to the self-determination of a nation than the right to life, and the Siljander Amendment exists in recognition of this principle. Therefore, we respectfully request the funding of those organs of the OAS, which are aggressively lobbying in favor of abortion, be stopped immediately through a proportional reduction in the United States contribution to the OAS general fund. These reductions should remain in place until they cease their pro-abortion advocacy in compliance with the Siljander Amendment. We also request a complete halt to all U.S. voluntary fund contributions specifically designated to those organs.\r\n Lastly, we ask that you order new detailed guidelines on compliance with the Siljander Amendment at the Department of State, indicating what kinds of activities may be prohibited, and disseminate this guidance through the agency.\r\n We appreciate your urgent attention to this request.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-provides-more-details-on-first-step-act", "Senator Lankford Provides More Details on First Step Act", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Provides More Details on First Step Act \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released a video detailing his work on the recent Senate-passed First Step Act to reform the federal criminal justice system. The video provides Oklahomans an update on some of the positive steps taken in the bill to address our incarcerated population through rehabilitation, recidivism, and prison safety. He also dispels rumors about some the bill's provisions.\r\nLankford voted in favor of the bill earlier this week when it passed the Senate in a vote of 87-12. The bill was also approved by the House in a vote of 358 to 36 and now awaits signature by the President.\r\nExcerpts:\r\n(Starts at 00:16): The First Step Act takes a look into a place that Americans don't like to look into, our penitentiaries. We typically have someone committed of a crime, found guilty, and then locked up, and we don't want to think about it anymore from there, rightfully so.\r\n(Starts at 00:30): We have 180,000 peoplearound thatin federal penitentiaries right now. We have over 2 million people total incarcerated in America, both in state and federal penitentiaries. Here's the challenge though: Of that 180,000 people around that in federal penitentiaries, around 40,000 of those folks will be released in the next year. So, they're coming back into society. So the question is not 'What's happening over there?' It's, What's happening to those 40,000 people when they come back into society, out of the federal prison?...We as Americans should talk about what happens in the prison, because it does affect us when those individuals come out of prison and come back to the street.\r\n(Starts at 2:42): For folks that are low- or minimal-risk individuals [to recidivate], these are not individuals with violent pasts or violent convictions, sexual assaults, all of those. These are folks with low-risk crimes that have been cooperative in prison as well, they go to different educational programs that we can set up. If they do all of those things to better themselves, they earn time to not be in prison serving their time, but they earn time to serve their time in like a halfway-house or in a community detention program. Still under the supervision of the Bureau of Prisons, but to get out of the main prison, and to be able to go to a less-restricted environment. Now, they still have to serve their full sentence, but they earn time with a little bit of flexibility at the end\r\n(Starts at 3:59): For the last two years, President Trump and his team have worked very hard to be able to engage on this topic, because the President wants this bill to pass, and they've worked through different ideas on it as well. Now, it's passed the Senate 87-12. That is an overwhelming bipartisan vote with groups from all over the country looking at the bill and examining and saying, 'This is the best way to provide some incentives to have some life turnaround in prison, rather than just warehouse those individuals.'\r\n(Starts at 4:34): It [the First Step Act] includes a lot more than that as well. It also deals with some things like something that should have been fixed ten years ago. That's the issue of crack cocaine and powder cocaine. Congress voted to say that crack and cocaine powder are the same, but they left some folks in prison and never went back to be able to reevaluate that with the crack cocaine convictions.\r\n(Starts at 5;11): This also deals with things like faith-based groups. There's been a big challenge in the Bureau of Prisons for federal prisons that they don't allow most faith-based groups to actually come in and actually do recidivism work. Our state penitentiaries do all over the country, and there have been exceptionally successful programs on fighting off recidivism in our state prisons, but the federal penitentiaries block that.Well this stops that. Now, faith-based groups and non-faith-based groups that work on recidivism for prisoners will be treated fairly and be treated the same.\r\n(Starts at 5:41): This also deals with the request from law enforcement. The Bureau of Prison Employees have for years ask for the ability to have lockboxes in the prison where they put their own personal firearms in. They'll drive to their work under risk there, because obviously they're recognized as prison employees and not everyone likes prison employees in the community. So they want to be able to conceal-carry on their way to work. But there's not been a way to be able to store their firearm when they got to work. Well, this corrects that so they can defend themselves on the way to work and on their way home from work as well. It fulfills a request Bureau of Prison employees have out there for a very long time and finally resolves that.\r\n(Starts at 6:16): This deals with an issue that I have worked on very hard. Not only the religious liberty issue, which was the amendment that I put in to be able to make sure we corrected that and to make sure faith-based groups are treated the same, but also another amendment I put in dealing with what we call the MERCY Act. I worked on this in a bipartisan bill to be able to deal with juveniles that are in solitary confinement too long. We don't want juveniles in solitary confinement too long, unless they're a risk to themselves or to others, we need to be able to make sure they're back with the population or limited population. So that is something we corrected in this bill. We also dealt with things like prisoners that are pregnant, making sure they have greater access to medical care and greater ability to be able to get care while they are there.\r\n(Starts at 7:17): This is not an early release bill, this is not letting people out, this is not the jail-break bill, I've heard all kinds of rumors. Why don't you call us, and we will get the details to you directly (202) 224-5754. That's our Washington, DC office, or you can go online atlankford.senate.govand you can get all of our numbers for any of our offices and you can talk to any of our staff about it, or you can go online.\r\n(Starts at 7:47): We want those prisoners that are coming out of prison that are coming anyway to able to have the best opportunity for rehabilitation. The way to do that is to give them job-training, to give them great skills-training, social-training, and quite frankly, one other thing: to connect with their families. Let's do what we can and just common-sense things, simple things, to be able to deal with those prisoners in our prisons. We as Americans provide great dignity to everybody.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-peters-paul-and-jones-bill-to-streamline-federal-property-review-process-to-be-signed-into-law", "Senators Lankford, Peters, Paul, and Jones Bill to Streamline Federal Property Review Process to be Signed into Law", "2018-12-21", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.21.18\n\t\t\t Senators Lankford, Peters, Paul, and Jones Bill to Streamline Federal Property Review Process to be Signed into Law \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Today, the House passed bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Gary Peters (D-MI), Rand Paul (R-KY), and Doug Jones (D-AL) to save taxpayer money by streamlining the federal inventory review process. Currently, many federal agencies only declare property as excess during periods of transition, such as office moves or space reductions. This can result in agencies retaining or storing unneeded property that could be utilized by other agencies or in the private sector. All four Senators are members of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Federal Spending Oversight and Emergency Management. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law.\r\nFederal agencies need to determine what is excess property and sell it or give it to another agency, said Lankford. There is no gain to the taxpayer when agencies pay extra storage costs to hoard their unneeded equipment. This bipartisan policy solution gives a clear process for federal agencies to review their inventory to determine necessity and usability. By making simple process changes, we can prevent future waste, continue to develop oversight of federal properties, and save taxpayers money.\r\nFederal agencies shouldn't be spending taxpayer money storing equipment they don't even need while other agencies purchase new items that could be acquired from other federal offices where it's not needed, said Peters. I am pleased this bipartisan legislation to cut down wasteful government spending and save taxpayers' hard-earned dollars on unnecessary equipment storage and purchases will be signed into law.\r\n\r\nOur legislation forces the federal government to look inward to see where it can better use the resources it already has instead of simply assuming it can keep taking more and more from the American people forever. I applaud the US House for taking this practical step and passing this important reform, said Paul.\r\nThis is a great step toward cutting government waste and using our limited resources more efficiently. Taxpayers rightly expect their government to make the best use of their hard-earned tax dollars and we should consistently pursue efforts like this to root out inefficiencies wherever they exist, said Jones.\r\n\r\nThe Federal Personal Property Management Act directs federal agencies to assess property more regularly according to guidance set by the General Services Administration (GSA), including the age and condition of the property and the extent to which the property is used and needed.\r\nThe GSA has outlined a government-wide excess property disposal process, but previously lacked the authority to tell agencies how or when to identify excess property.\r\nBy implementing this assessment process, agencies can more frequently declare excess property, allowing for its disposal. The legislation also creates a uniform standard for how agencies assess their most valuable property, allowing for a better understanding of the value of the government's personal property.\r\n\r\nWhen agencies declare a piece of property excess, other federal agencies and certain non-agency recipients have 21 days to claim the property. If unclaimed after 21 days, there is a five-day period for state agencies to claim property, after which property is declared surplus and made available for sale or donation to the general public.\r\n\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1405", "Mullin Introduces Bill to Keep IHS Doors Open Despite Government Shutdown", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) introduced H.R. 7362, the Pay Our Doctors Act, to fund the Indian Health Service (IHS) for the next fiscal year in the event of a government shutdown. This bill will ensure that tribally-run hospitals and Urban Indian Clinics receive the funding they need to pay their doctors and keep their doors open. \r\nCongress needs to stop putting Native Americans' health care in the crossfire of political spending fights, stated Mullin. The Indian Health Service is not only terribly underfunded, but it is one of the only health care agencies that doesn't receive mandatory or advanced appropriations. Native Americans deserve quality, reliable health care services as promised in treaties with the federal government. My bill, which would provide a stable source of funding for IHS through fiscal year 2019, is a good start.\r\nDuring a government shutdown, tribally-run hospitals and Urban Indian Clinics do not receive annual funding, which is typically distributed in a lump sum at the beginning of a fiscal year. Hospitals and clinics are forced to make ends meet by using any remaining rollover funds from the previous year. If no funds are available, hospitals and clinics are forced to furlough or lay-off staff. \r\nGovernment shutdowns and continuing resolutions (CR) create instability and an administrative disaster for IHS staff. With funds from either a CR or a regular appropriation, IHS headquarters allots funds to individual area offices. Area offices generate lump sum payments to tribes. Enacting short-term CRs puts a heavy administrative burden on IHS and prevent tribes from investing their annual lump sum payments in interest-bearing accounts.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1406", "Cole and Mullin Praise Final Passage of the Stigler Act Amendments", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) issued the following statements after the U.S. House of Representatives approved the final version of H.R. 2606, the Stigler Act Amendments of 2018, which was passed by the Senate last week. First introduced by Cole and co-sponsored by Mullin in the House, the legislation amends the Stigler Act of 1947 to remove the one-half degree Native American blood quantum restriction for holders of tribal allotment land. The legislation specifically impacts citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes: the Chickasaw, Cherokee, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole nations.\r\nI am pleased that both chambers of Congress approved changes to the misguided Stigler Act of 1947, which clearly discriminates against citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes, said Congressman Cole, a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and co-chair of the Native American Caucus. Without question and especially in Oklahoma, Native American heritage is something to be celebrated. But that special heritage must also be protected, preserved and passed on. Land ownership is part of that unique inheritance for many tribal citizens and their descendants, and over the years, the Stigler Act has unfortunately diminished that rightful inheritance due to an unfair blood quantum requirement. By amending the Stigler Act, I am proud that the rights and privileges promised to all Native Americans will also be extended to Oklahoma's Five Tribes. In getting this important legislation to the president's desk, I am very grateful for the strong support offered by Oklahoma's entire congressional delegation.\r\nToday marks another great step forward for Native Americans and the land they call home, said Congressman Markwayne Mullin, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and vice-chair of the Native American Caucus.Land that is handed down from generation to generation in Native American families is a part of our culture.It is what allows families like mine to continually pass their family's history on to the next generation.The members of the Five Tribes deserve the right to hand down their history without blood quantum requirementsjust like members of every other tribe can.I look forward to the president signing the Stigler Act Amendments into law.\r\nBackground:\r\nThe Dawes Act of 1887 authorized the federal government to survey tribal lands and divide them into allotments for individual tribal citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes. Title to these allotments was then set forth in the Stigler Act of 1947, requiring heirs and devisees have at least one-half degree Native American blood to retain restricted fee status of allotted land. Restricted land is not subject to state taxation. Federal law does not dictate a minimum Native American blood quantum requirement for any other tribe with regards to its territory. In amending the original Stigler Act, heirs and devisees are given the opportunity to take title to allotted land and allow the parcel to maintain its restricted fee status. By removing the blood quantum requirement imposed on citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes, the legislation also creates parity in federal law in the treatment of Native Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1409", "Mullin Stands with President Trump in Securing the Southern Border", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Mullin Stands with President Trump in Securing the Southern Border \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 20, 2018\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 passage of the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 695, Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2019. The funding bill passed out of the House by a vote of 217  185.\r\nThe crisis we face at our southern border is a national security issue, said Mullin. Nancy Pelosi Democrats have decided that keeping our borders open is more important than keeping the American people safe and our government open. I support this funding bill because it fully funds President Trump's $5 billion request for border security. The national security of our country can't wait any longer.\r\nThe House has done its job to make America safer, stated Mullin. Now it's up to the Senate.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-and-mullin-praise-final-passage-stigler-act-amendments", "Cole and Mullin Praise Final Passage of the Stigler Act Amendments", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-02) issued the following statements after the U.S. House of Representatives approved the final version of H.R. 2606, the Stigler Act Amendments of 2018, which was passed by the Senate last week. First introduced by Cole and co-sponsored by Mullin in the House, the legislation amends the Stigler Act of 1947 to remove the one-half degree Native American blood quantum restriction for holders of tribal allotment land. The legislation specifically impacts citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes: the Chickasaw, Cherokee, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek) and Seminole nations.\nI am pleased that both chambers of Congress approved changes to the misguided Stigler Act of 1947, which clearly discriminates against citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes, said Congressman Cole, a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and co-chair of the Native American Caucus. Without question and especially in Oklahoma, Native American heritage is something to be celebrated. But that special heritage must also be protected, preserved and passed on. Land ownership is part of that unique inheritance for many tribal citizens and their descendants, and over the years, the Stigler Act has unfortunately diminished that rightful inheritance due to an unfair blood quantum requirement. By amending the Stigler Act, I am proud that the rights and privileges promised to all Native Americans will also be extended to Oklahoma's Five Tribes. In getting this important legislation to the president's desk, I am very grateful for the strong support offered by Oklahoma's entire congressional delegation.\nToday marks another great step forward for Native Americans and the land they call home, said Congressman Markwayne Mullin, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and vice-chair of the Native American Caucus.Land that is handed down from generation to generation in Native American families is a part of our culture.It is what allows families like mine to continually pass their family's history on to the next generation.The members of the Five Tribes deserve the right to hand down their history without blood quantum requirementsjust like members of every other tribe can.I look forward to the president signing the Stigler Act Amendments into law.\nBackground:\nThe Dawes Act of 1887 authorized the federal government to survey tribal lands and divide them into allotments for individual tribal citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes. Title to these allotments was then set forth in the Stigler Act of 1947, requiring heirs and devisees have at least one-half degree Native American blood to retain restricted fee status of allotted land. Restricted land is not subject to state taxation. Federal law does not dictate a minimum Native American blood quantum requirement for any other tribe with regards to its territory. In amending the original Stigler Act, heirs and devisees are given the opportunity to take title to allotted land and allow the parcel to maintain its restricted fee status. By removing the blood quantum requirement imposed on citizens of Oklahoma's Five Tribes, the legislation also creates parity in federal law in the treatment of Native Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-defense-secretary-jim-mattis", "Cole Statement on Defense Secretary Jim Mattis", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis announced he will resign his post at the end of February 2019.\nDuring his decades of extraordinary service and fearless leadership for our country, Jim Mattis has served with the utmost distinction and honor. The most revered Marine general in at least a generation and a living legend, his sense of duty is unmatched. His enduring belief and support of alliances and partnerships is an essential element of long-lasting peace and security, both at home and abroad. I am stunned and saddened by the news of his departure.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-house-passage-continuing-resolution", "Cole Statement on House Passage of Continuing Resolution", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed a short-term funding measure to avoid a partial government shutdown. The continuing resolution funds the remaining areas of government at current levels until February 8, 2019. It also includes additional funding for border security and disaster relief.\nBoth sides agree that the government should be kept open and operational, said Cole. I am pleased that the funding measure passed by the House does exactly that while also providing for some other pressing needs in country. Along with vital funding for disaster relief, the legislation also fulfills the modest request from the president to begin strengthening security at our borders. While a continuing resolution is not ideal for funding the government, the legislation importantly prevents the far worse alternative of a partial government shutdown.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/inhofe-video-message-on-2018-farm-bill", "Inhofe Video Message on 2018 Farm Bill", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-new-snap-rule", "Inhofe Praises New SNAP Rule", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Praises New SNAP Rule\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 20, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) praised President Trump and Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue for taking steps to strengthen work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by updating regulations on state waivers. Senator Inhofe fought for and secured real reforms to this year's Farm Bill that empowered President Trump to take this action today.\r\nEveryone agrees. If you are able bodied and get federal benefits, like food stamps, you need to work, receive workforce training or participate in other educational development. Thanks to tax reform and President Trump's deregulatory agenda, the unemployment rate is at a historic low and it's time to move more people from welfare to work. I'm pleased that I worked in this year's Farm Bill to protect President Trump's ability to address some of the waste and fraud in the SNAP program.\r\nEarlier this week, Sen. Inhofe joined Sen. Lankford and twelve other Republican senators in sending a letter to Secretary Perdue that urged the Administration to take these steps.\r\nThe current regulations allowing states to exempt ABAWDs from time limits and work requirements are too broad and do not meet the congressional intent of encouraging able-bodied Americans to get back to work, the senators wrote.\r\nRead the full letter here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-speaks-on-common-sense-for-the-common-defense", "Inhofe Speaks on Common Sense for the Common Defense", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Speaks on Common Sense for the Common Defense\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 20, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tThis week, Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor with two Common Sense for the Common Defense floor speeches as part of his ongoing series designed to highlight key national security policies.\r\nInhofe first held a colloquy with Sen. John Kyl (R-Ariz.), where they talked about the National Defense Strategy Commission report. Sen. Kyl was a member of the commission.\r\n\r\nWatch here.\r\nExcerpts:\r\nInhofe: Mr. President, we have talked about this recently more than we have in quite some time: Defending America needs to be our No. 1 commitment. To many of us, it has always been. That is why we have been coming to the floor, talking about the national defense strategy, the Armed Services Committee, and we have had the honor and privilege of hearing from some really well-informed peopleMembers and people from the outsideand they look and see the threats that we are facing I like the idea the administration came up with as we were looking at our peer competitors, which are China and Russia. These are countries that actually have passed us up in many areas\r\nSenator Kyl, why don't you kind of talk about, maybe, the Senate and its bipartisan nature and how this thing came together, which would be very similar as to how it was expressed when we had our meeting, I think, 2 or 3 weeks ago for this Commission. It has been very successful, and I applaud the Senator for his work on it.\r\nKyl: Mr. President, I thank the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee for engaging in this brief colloquy and for specifically calling for a hearing a couple of weeks ago at which the two cochairmen of the National Defense Strategy Commission presented the findings of the Commission's report. I agree that the hearing, which was attended by, I believe, every member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, was a remarkable hearing because the members of the Commission, represented by the two co-chairs, made it clear that their reportour reportwas, indeed, a bipartisan document and nonpartisan, as co-chairman Admiral Roughead said\r\nWe concluded, first of all, that the Secretary was correct in that we had to reorient the priorities of our national defense to reflect the fact that China and Russia now both presented a challenge to the United States that had not existed in the prior several years but that the challenge was increasingly difficult to confront and important to confront because of the attitudes of those two countries and that the other threats from Iran, from North Korea, and from terrorists, while still very significant, would be relegated, in effect, to a secondary position. We thought, in that regard, the Secretary's strategy was correct, and we commended him for that. We also found the basic strategy he laid out for confronting the challenges was satisfactory but with a big caveat, and that was that unless the Defense Department was adequately reauthorized to confront these challenges, the strategy could not succeed. So much of what the Commission dwelt on was what we would need to do in the near and medium future in order to rebuild our military to successfully defend the United States against these emerging threats.\r\nInhofe: That is one of the things I was really impressed with on this report. You guys didn't hold any punches\r\nLater, Inhofe also spoke on the need for nuclear modernization.\r\n\r\nWatch here.\r\nMr. President, I want to finish up where Senator Kyl and I started off this morning and elaborate a little bit more about what responsibilities are concerning the nuclear modernization program. Defending America should be our No. 1 priority. In most all of the administrations throughout the years, it has been our No. 1 priority. Today we are talking about the need to modernize our nuclear forces. The reason I think this is important, there are a lot of people who say the nuclear forces are a relic of the past. This is not true. Some in Washington believe we don't need to modernize forces or that we can cut off one of the three legsthe three legs being the ICBM, bomber, and the submarine. It is not true. Our nuclear triad has to be kept intact. The arsenal is aging, and most of it has not been modernized since it started in the 1960s. In the 1980s, the last modernization actually took place during the Obama administration. They had a bet. They believed if we reduced our role in the number of nuclear weapons, the other countries would come along and do the same thing. That didn't work out.\r\nIn fact, they have done just the opposite. As the Nuclear Posture Review said, very clearly, Since 2010 no potential adversary has reduced either the role of nuclear weapons in its national security strategy, or the number of nuclear weapons it fields.'' There is a comparison. The lighter color there is in development. In fact, Russia and China are both way ahead of us in that. In terms of fielding a system, we haven't even fielded a system. We are clearly behind in that respect.\r\nRussia is modernizing every leg of the nuclear triad, but it is not just that. They are also building a vast arsenal of tactical nuclear weapons in addition to their triad. We heard Putin talk about some of these things last spring, like the nuclear-armed hypersonic weapons. Those are the hypersonic weapons that react not like six per minute but many per tenth of a second. He claimed he is ahead of us in that respect; that they have a nuclear-powered cruise missile and nuclear-armed missiles and defenses. We are talking about in both offensive and defensive capability. That is what Putin has been doing. What is more, Russian doctrine emphasizes using nuclear weapons to coerce the United States and NATO. Putin threatens NATO allies with nuclear strikes. This is interesting. You have to keep in mind, we are a nuclear NATO ally. In fact, that is about the time Putin made the statement that if they were to declare war on NATO and that includes us and Western Europethey would win. That is how things have become more and more serious and how they are very proud of themselves that they have been putting together a program faster than we are.\r\nMeanwhile, there is China. They are also further along in modernizing its nuclear arsenal. I think they claim or others claim that soon they will have a complete nuclear triad, including an ICBM, a bomber, and a submarine. I suggest that they very well have that already. This doesn't even get to North Korea's capabilities, Iran's nuclear ambitions, or the threats from terrorism. It should be clear, looking at all of these, that nuclear weapons are no Cold War relic. We need to modernize them for the current threat of the environment we face.\r\nSome of the critics say nuclear modernization is too expensive. I will not say it is going to be cheap, but it is going to be affordable. At its peak, in 2029, nuclear modernization will cost about 6.4 percent of the military budget, the DOD budget. On average, over the next two decades, it will be about 5 percent of the DOD budget. I think that is a pretty good price, especially when you consider that we haven't been investing in it for over two decades. This investment will get us a new B 1 bomber with modernized cruise missiles and a Columbia-class submarine. With this necessity to increase our capabilities comes some good news and helps us with our buildup. It will also bring command control to the 21st century and will help revitalize the infrastructure, including the Department of Energy.\r\nSome critics also say we have to choose between nuclear forces and conventional forces; that we can't modernize both at the same time. This report we talked about this morning is the best report I have seen in showing where we are right now, where the other side is, what their capabilities are. They make it very clear that the nuclear and conventional forces are both indispensable to a balanced, effective defense. The Nation should not hollow out one set of capabilities to pay for another. I think we are in a position now to go forward, and people will recognize what we are now trying to do and keep up with what our adversaries are doing. In the past, there are some who have had very bipartisan support for our nuclear deterrent. In fact, some of the current modernization programs were started under the Obama administration when all the other parts of our national defense were deteriorating.\r\nSecretary Mattis said last year, it is not possible to delay modernization of our nuclear forces if we are to preserve a credible nuclear deterrent, ensuring that our diplomats continue to speak from the position of strength on matters of war and peace. I couldn't have said it better myself. We need to keep our deterrent credible. Let's keep in mind, though, that, yes, this is true. The only reason we are bringing up and emphasizing at this point the necessity for a nuclear modernization is that we have been neglecting it for so long.\r\nWhile we have been neglecting it, the other side has been paying attention to their capabilities. This book we talked about this morningI didn't mention some of the highlights in the book that I think are important because we in the United States have to understand that we don't have the capabilities some of our adversaries have. Here are some of the highlights in this manual that has been lauded as probably the most accurate bipartisan manual on defense we have ever analyzed. It says, and these are quotes, assesses unequivocally that the NDS''that is the defense systemis not adequately resourced.'' Another quote: America is very near the point of strategic insolvency.'' Further, it says that America's military superiority has eroded to a dangerous degree'' and that America's combat edge is diminishing or has disappeared.'' That is all in this manual. But we knew that.\r\nWe saw this coming. Remember, back in the early days of the Obama administration when Chuck Hagel was the Secretary of Defense, he saidand I read this to more people around the country back when the quote actually came out, which was 2014. This is a quote from our Secretary of Defense under the Obama administration: American dominance of the seas and the skies and in space can no longer be taken for granted.'' Mark Milley, the Army Chief of Staff, said: In terms of artillery, the Army is outgunned and outranged by our adversaries.'' The Vice CNO of the Navy, Admiral Moran, said that for our entire Hornet fleetF/A18 fleetwe have 62 percent that are not flyable today.\r\nSo we are rapidly recovering right now. In fact, we are entering into a defense authorization bill, and one of the commitments we made is that we are going to have a defense authorization bill that will come up currently so that we will have it done well before the new year starts. That being the case, that will allow us to then go in with appropriations. One of the problems we have had before is that we are depending on renewing the previous year, and that is not going to work in this case. So I think we are coming out ahead. I think we have pretty much convinced most people who are making the decisions that we are going to have do something to renew our nuclear modernization and get on with the rebuilding that is taking place at this time.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-secretary-mattis", "Inhofe Statement on Secretary Mattis", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Statement on Secretary Mattis\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 20, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after the announcement that Secretary Mattis will retire in February:\r\nSecretary Mattis led us through rebuilding our military after the readiness crisis to developing a forward thinking National Defense Strategy that prepares our military for the realities of the future. It is a shock to everyone that a career Marine with the nickname of Mad Dog' was genuine, gentle and understanding. He was devoted to the warfighter, military families and veterans. I always valued our close working relationship and our nation is better for his lifetime of service.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/potus-signs-2018-farm-bill-into-law", "POTUS Signs 2018 Farm Bill Into Law", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "POTUS Signs 2018 Farm Bill Into Law\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tIncludes Key Oklahoma Priorities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 20, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tToday, President Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill into law, enacting key provisions that will support Oklahoma's farmers and ranchers. U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), who worked to ensure those provisions were in the legislation, released a video message about the importance of the legislation after it passed the Senate.\r\n\r\nWatch Here.\r\nHe also made the following statement after the 2018 Farm Bill, legislation that renews major farm programs, crop insurance, farm credit and conservation programs, passed the Senate earlier this month. \r\nThe passage of today's farm bill is a win for farmers, ranchers and the American taxpayer. It ensures producers in Oklahoma and across the country have flexibility in crop programs and certainty for future seasons, while supporting critical investments in agriculture research and land-grant schools, like Oklahoma State University and Langston University. I am especially pleased this legislation includes my provisions that will enable farmers to graze on CRP lands after a wildfire, help young Americans begin careers in farming and make it easier for Oklahomans to repair fence lines damaged in disasters like wildfires.\r\nI voted against this bill when it passed the Senate because it didn't make meaningful reforms to the food stamp programs. I fought for and secured real reforms to protect American taxpayers and get more wins for Oklahoma. As a result, the bill we passed today addresses some of the waste and fraud in the SNAP program by empowering President Trump to enforce stricter work requirements as well as including important program integrity reforms that will ensure federal taxpayer resources go to those truly in need.\r\nAmerica's farmers and ranchers support all of us, and I am proud this Farm Bill supports them. \r\n\r\nThe legislation was supported by key stakeholders in Oklahoma:\r\nOCA is pleased to see the Farm Bill Conference Report pass the Senate, said Michael Kelsey, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association.We appreciate Senator Inhofe's support and leadership, specifically to champion reform of the Emergency Conservation Program that cuts the red tape allowing much needed disaster assistance to farmers and ranchers so they can rebuild quicker after catastrophic events like wildfires. Senator Inhofe also shared key input to modify programs like CRP to be more flexible for grazing. While the Farm Bill is a very large piece of legislation with a lot of different considerations, it is important that farmers and ranchers have certainty so that important decisions regarding crops and livestock can be made. We thank Senator Inhofe for his leadership and the Senate for advancing the Farm Bill Conference Report.\r\nThe Oklahoma Cotton Council would like to thank Sen. Inhofe for his passion and resolve in the fight for the 2018 Farm Bill, said Harvey Schroeder, executive director of the Oklahoma Cotton Council. A new Farm Bill with cotton included in Title I will give our producers the certainty and predictability they need.The final bill includes many of the cotton industry's policy priorities and we are glad to see it pass through the Senate. We are extremely grateful to have Sen. Inhofe's ongoing support of the Oklahoma cotton industry and look forward to working with him in the future.\r\nThe Oklahoma Farm Bureau is grateful for Sen. Inhofe's work on the 2018 Farm Bill, said Rodd Moesel, President of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau. The farm bill is a critical piece of legislation that ensures Oklahoma farmers and ranchers can continue to produce food and fiber for the nation with confidence. When it comes to Sen. Inhofe, there is no better warrior fighting for your issues, and we are blessed to have him advocating for our priorities in Congress.\r\nOklahoma State University is incredibly appreciative of Sen. Inhofe's contribution to the 2018 Farm Bill, strengthening land grant universities like our own, said Thomas Coon, Vice President, Dean and Director of the Oklahoma State University Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Passing this bill through the Senate means results for producers and greater certainty about risk management tools in uncertain times. With renewed support for extension and research, we are optimistic towards the future of our great university and the state of Oklahoma.\r\nSen. Inhofe's provisions that were incorporated into the Conference report included: \r\n \r\nWildfire Regulatory Relief Act  legislation that will make it possible for cattle to graze on CRP lands after a wildfire.\r\nFarmers of Tomorrow Act  legislation that will strengthen the next generation of farmers and ranchers by reducing the burden of student loan debt and making capital easier to obtain so new farmers can buy land, equipment or livestock.\r\nThe Emergency Conservation Program Payments Legislation  would give the USDA the authority to offer landowners the option to be paid upfront a portion of the fair market value of property damaged in natural disasters such as wildfires.\r\nSmall Watershed Rehabilitation Program - Authorizes $50 million annually to help rehabilitate aging flood control dams nationwide, including the over 2,107 flood control dams protecting farms and ranches across Oklahoma.\r\nDirects the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a livestock dealer statutory trust. The outcome of this study would support Senator Inhofe's SALE Act, which directs USDA to create a livestock dealer statutory trust.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-applauds-passage-of-stigler-act-amendments", "Senator Lankford Applauds Passage of Stigler Act Amendments", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Applauds Passage of Stigler Act Amendments \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded the final passage of H.R. 2606, the Stigler Act Amendments of 2018 in the House by a vote of 399-0. On December 13, Lankford requested unanimous consent of the bill on the Senate floor along with three other bills related to Tribal issues. The bill now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. The bill was authored by Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK).\r\n\r\nThe bill adjusts the Stigler Act of 1947 to remove the one-half degree requirement of Native American blood for the Five Tribes (Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, Seminole, and Muscogee Creek) and gives heirs an opportunity to continue ownership and use of the land while still maintaining the land's restricted status.\r\n\r\nThese amendments to the Stigler Act help ensure arbitrary congressionally created blood requirements for family land transfers do not continue to create unfair barriers for members of the Five Tribes, said Lankford. No other Tribes in the country have the same requirements to pass restricted land to their heirs; it was time to clear this barrier for the future. Tribes have wide latitude to handle their own affairs. But in this case, decades ago, Congress created a problem, and it was time for Congress to fix the problem.Tribal members now have certainty that the land that is currently in restricted status can stay in restricted status.\r\n\r\nLankford serves on the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs and has cosponsored several bills to address issues facing our nation's Tribes and Tribal members including: S. 63, the Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act, S. 245, the Indian Tribal Energy Development and Self Determination Act Amendments, and S. 943, the Johnson-O'Malley Supplemental Indian Education Program Modernization Act, which passed the Senate this week and awaits the President's signature into law.\r\n\r\nFor more information on H.R. 2606, please click here. \r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-applauds-passage-of-va-bill", "Senator Lankford Applauds Passage of VA Bill", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Applauds Passage of VA Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) applauded the final passage of the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act of 2018. The bill, which includes provisions from Lankford, will now go to the President to be signed into law.\r\nThis bill is a big deal for veterans, active duty servicemembers, military spouses, children, and surviving spouses, and I'm glad Congress could complete this work before the end of the year, said Lankford. For Oklahoma, it authorizes additional funding to complete construction of the surgical intensive care unit at the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center. With current GI Bill delays, it also protects veterans from any disruption in their education or having to take out student loans when there is a delay in their tuition payments.\r\nSpecifically, the bill includes the following highlights for Oklahoma veterans:\r\n \r\nIncludes language from a bill introduced with Senator Inhofe, S. 2622, which requires medical center directors to submit a plan to the Secretary of the VA on the resources needed to reach a five-star quality rating:\r\nIncludes a provision from a bill introduced by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and John Boozman (R-AR), which Lankford cosponsored, that prohibits schools from disallowing student veterans or other GI Bill eligible individuals from enrolling in or attending class if VA is delayed in paying the school for tuition or fees;\r\nAuthorizes $29,461,000 for construction of a surgical intensive care unit and operating room renovations at the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center; and\r\nMakes a technical fix to the Forever GI Bill to ensure that all GI Bill recipients, who weren't previously covered, are able to use their benefits for certain career and technical independent study programs.\r\n \r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-applauds-senate-passage-of-bill-to-modernize-the-johnson-omalley-jom-program", "Senator Lankford Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Modernize the Johnson-O'Malley (JOM) Program", "2018-12-20", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.20.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Modernize the Johnson-O'Malley (JOM) Program \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded the Senate passage of S. 943, the Johnson-O'Malley Supplemental Indian Education Program Modernization Act, which now heads to the President's desk for signature. The bill Amends the Johnson-O'Malley Act to direct the Secretary of the Interior, in coordination with the Director of the Bureau of Indian Education, to take initial steps to ensure full participation of all qualified and eligible Indian students in the JOM program. The bill also clarifies current contracting and reporting practices that address challenges in serving eligible students and obtaining accurate student counts.\r\nI am glad the Senate finally passed the bipartisan Johnson O'Malley Supplemental Indian Education Program Modernization Act, said Lankford. I appreciate the Committee's work, particularly Senator Heitkamp, to bring this bill to the finish line. The bill solves an issue with this important Native education program by correcting a decades-old problem of using severely outdated data to calculate its funding needs. The bill helps ensure the program operates with an accurate count of eligible Indian students attending public schools. We should keep our promises to our nation's Tribes, and where we see that the federal program is not holding up its end of the agreement, we should address those inefficiencies as soon as possible. Our bill does just that, and I'm pleased the Senate unanimously agreed.\r\nThis legislation will ensure an accurate and updated count of students participating in the JOM program, said Indian Affairs Committee Chairman John Hoeven (R-ND). A yearly JOM count better enables the Bureau of Indian Affairs to provide needed supplemental educational services and assistance to many Indian students across the country.\r\nStudies have indicated that culturally relevant learning programs help Native students perform better in the classroom said Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND). But too often, these federal programs meant to address the specific needs of American Indian and Alaska Native students are underfunded or poorly implemented. It's a huge deal that my bipartisan bill -- that just passed in Congress and should soon be signed into law -- will require that accurate counts of Native American students are performed, so that these underserved students and schools can receive the support they deserve. This important and needed legislation continues my decades-long work to stand up for Native children and families, and it comes soon after my bill, Savanna's Act also passed in Senate and we're trying to get it across the finish line in the U.S. House to help address the crisis of missing and murdered Native women. Congress must continue to pass critical legislation to support tribal communities and I'll continue to advocate to help make that happen.\r\nJust like every other student in America,Native American studentsdeserve every educational resource available,said Senator Steve Daines (D-MT).This program providesNative Americanstudents with additional educational services and assistance that will better prepare them for the future. I'm glad to see this important bill heading to the president's desk and look forward to it being signed into law.\r\nS. 943 was introduced by Heitkamp, Lankford, and Daines on April 26, 2017. The Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a Legislative Hearing to receive testimony on the bill on July 12, 2017. On October 4, 2017, the Committee held a Business Meeting on the bill. On March 22, 2018 it passed the Senate by voice vote. The bill, as amended in the House, returned to the Senate for consideration. It will now go to the President to be signed into law.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/inhofe-speaks-on-the-floor-about-george-hw-bush", "Inhofe Speaks on the Floor about George HW Bush", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-inhofe-and-whitehouse-introduce-bill-to-help-train-next-generation-of-manufacturing-workers", "Inhofe and Whitehouse Introduce Bill to Help Train Next Generation of Manufacturing Workers", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe and Whitehouse Introduce Bill to Help Train Next Generation of Manufacturing Workers\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 19, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tToday, Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) introduced the Retain Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence (RIME) Act, S.3778, to help businesses train the next generation of manufacturing workers. The senators' bipartisan bill would establish a pilot program to allow businesses to retain retiring employees long enough to train replacement workers  tackling a major challenge for manufacturing companies.\r\nManufacturing is the backbone of Oklahoma and America, Inhofe said. But as individuals retire from the workforce, small businesses have trouble finding and training the next generation of workers to take their place. By creating this grant pilot program to support the training of new workers, we can make it possible for small business to effectively train new employees alongside outgoing staffmaking it possible to pass on critical institutional knowledge.Additionally, I am especially pleased that this legislation prioritizes veterans transitioning to a new career.\r\nManufacturers tell me one of their biggest challenges is handing down skills and knowledge from one generation of workers to the next. This bill would help them do that, said Whitehouse. Rhode Island is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, and to this day continues a long tradition of manufacturing excellence. That's why I'm proud to join Senator Inhofe on bipartisan legislation to strengthen American manufacturing.\r\nThe RIME Act was praised by manufacturers across Oklahoma: \r\nThis program is an important step forward in addressing a problem that plagues American manufacturing, says Dave Rowland, president of the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance. Finding and retaining skilled employees remains the primary challenge of our industry. It constantly suppresses the production potential of companies in the United States. The national network of Manufacturing Extension Partnership centers is in a unique position to facilitate the transfer of job-specific skills and training, which in turn will raise the standard of living in communities across the country. We applaud Sens. Inhofe and Whitehouse on their bipartisan effort to provide solutions for this ongoing dilemma.\r\nDitch Witch is faced with workforce challenges similar to most manufacturing companies across the nation as we address significant demand increases for our product worldwide, said Michael Grant, vice president of operations & supply chain for DitchWitch.The availability of skilled workers is vital to our growth and strategic objectives as a US manufacturer. We have a great deal of tenure in our skilled worker ranks, and Senator Inhofe's RIME Act legislation provides a tool for manufacturers to transfer valuable skills to workers just entering our company. As we address these challenges strategically we are excited to partner with the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance as they support Sen Inhofe's RIME ACT and manufacturers in Oklahoma.\r\nFor a fast-growing, global company firmly rooted in Oklahoma City, we are thrilled to partner with the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance in support of Sen. Inhofe's RIME Act, said Gareth C. Ford, founder, president and CEO of Valiant Artificial Lift Solutions. Having financial support to help transition jobs from our valued retirees to our talented incoming workforce will be of enormous benefit as gear up for the inevitable shift change in this industry.\r\nAs a growing manufacturer headquartered in Oklahoma for almost 100 years we are very excited about the opportunity to continue our partnership with the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance toward adding new skills and abilities for our tenured workforce, said Dave Husted, senior vice president of human resources, M-D Building Products. With the addition of many new technologies and the improvement of many of our previously manual machining processes, we are forever challenged to develop new skill sets that will help our employees to succeed in an ever-evolving workplace.\r\nThe RIME Act would establish the pilot program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology to allow regional Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) to apply for targeted workforce training grants provided by the Department of Commerce. The funding awarded to small manufacturers would be used to retain a departing employee for up to 90 days while they train a new or promoted employee on the unique functions of their job. The bill would authorize up to $10 million to be used for the pilot program.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-disappointed-in-continuing-resolution", "Senator Lankford Disappointed in Continuing Resolution", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Disappointed in Continuing Resolution \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today expressed frustration that Congress had to resort to another continuing resolution (CR) to partially fund the government through February 8, 2019. The CR passed by voice vote and now heads to the House for consideration.\r\nThis vote marks the 179th CR to fund the government since 1977. In fact, Congress has not followed the correct annual process to fund the federal government since fiscal year 1995.\r\nI am disappointed that a year's worth of work on appropriation bills stops in its tracks today, said Lankford. This was yet another sidestep in the broken federal spending process that not only fails to tackle our spending issues, it holds federal agencies in limbo and fails to take even a small step tofund border security or any of the other hundreds of issues that should be resolved.\r\nThis year, the Senate Appropriations Committee passed all 12 bills to fund the federal government.Five of them have been signed into law, and the other seven are ready to go.The Subcommittee I chair worked tirelessly to bring the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) bill through the committee process.The FSGG bill had wide bipartisan support in the Committee, but like other appropriation bills, it will fail in this Congress because of a lack of commitment to finish negotiations. \r\nThe members of the bipartisan, bicameral committee to address our flawed federal spending and budget process agreed that CRs are not the way we should fund the government, and yet here we are again. CRs do nothing to reduce our deficit or our nearly $22 trillion national debt. We will not have a better budget product until we have a better budget process, and that means discontinuing the use of CRs among a myriad of other necessary reforms.\r\nThe Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee had bipartisan agreement on a security funding package that included $1.6 billion toward a border fence and technology like seismic sensors and tethered drones to protect the border. It's beyond frustrating that we were unable to work through the $900 million difference between one potential $2.5 billion proposal and the Senate Committee agreement of $1.6 billion.\r\nIn the last two years, Congress has provided $1.7 billion to build 124 miles of new or replacement fencing along the southern border. This new construction is working, and border agents at the southern border have confirmed that they have seen a decrease in illegal border crossings. But the effort is not over yet.\r\nThis year, more than 75 Senators voted to support some version of border security and immigration policy. But all of the proposals failed.Instead of finding common ground and resolving our differences on national security, this Congress wants to just punt the hard decisions to another day.We need to actually make a decision. I hope we will use this short-term funding period to work out the disagreements that keep us from governing properly.\r\nLankford has remained vocal on the need for border security and immigration reform. In June 2018, Lankfordreleased an episode of his podcast, The Breakdown with James Lankfordspecifically discussing the immigration debate in Washington.And in Julyhe spoke on the Senate floorin yet another attempt to urge Congress to act on immigration issues.Lankford has also expressed frustration at the Joint Select Committee on Appropriations and Budget Process Reform's inability to make a number of key reforms to Washington's spending culture.\r\nLankford serves on the Senate Committee on Appropriations, which has jurisdiction over all discretionary spending in the Senate. He serves as the Chairman of the Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee. Lankford also served on the bipartisan, bicameral Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform, which concluded its work last month.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankfords-bipartisan-bill-to-safeguard-national-security-from-supply-chain-security-threats-approved-by-senate-", "Senator Lankfords Bipartisan Bill to Safeguard National Security from Supply Chain Security Threats Approved by Senate", "2018-12-19", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.19.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford's Bipartisan Bill to Safeguard National Security from Supply Chain Security Threats Approved by Senate  \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DCSenator James Lankford (R-OK) applauded the passage the Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCSA) of 2018, which is an important national security priority. Lankford is the lead Republican on the legislation joining Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO). The bill will ensure government agencies consider the supply chain risks to national security and public interest when buying information technology (IT). The legislation will establish a council to equip the government with the policies and process for sharing information and evaluating supply chain risks earlier in the IT purchasing cycle. The measure would also provide the government with critical authorities to mitigate threats when they are discovered. The bill comes in the aftermath of national security issues surrounding the use of foreign technology platforms in government and national security systems, like Kaspersky and ZTE products.\r\nThe Senate passage of this bill helps the federal government move in the right direction to strengthen cybersecurity vulnerabilities, said Lankford. We must have a process in place to address security threats in our supply chain before they become security realities. We should learn from past mistakes in purchasing and close our security gaps.\r\nTheFederal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCSA) of 2018creates a government-wide approach to addressing the problem of supply chain security in federal acquisitions by establishing a Federal Acquisition Security Council to develop the policies and processes for agencies to use when purchasing information technology.The legislation bridges the information gap between the Intelligence Community, the Department of Defense, and the rest of the government on technology vulnerabilities and characteristics that could jeopardize our national security.FASCSA arms the heads of civilian agencies with vital information earlier in the purchasing process so they can make informed decisions based on clear standards for risk tolerance, and it requires greater accountability and transparency in the process.\r\n\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/common-sense-for-the-common-defense-inhofe-and-kyl-speak-on-nds-commission", "Common Sense for the Common Defense: Inhofe and Kyl Speak on NDS Commission", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/common-sense-for-the-common-defense-nuclear-modernization", "Common Sense for the Common Defense: Nuclear Modernization", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-senator-lankford-supports-federal-criminal-justice-reform-bill", "Senator Lankford Supports Federal Criminal Justice Reform Bill", "2018-12-18", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.18.18\n\t\t\t  Senator Lankford Supports Federal Criminal Justice Reform Bill \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded the passage of the First Step Act by the Senate. Therevised billprovides federal inmates programming opportunities toavoid their return to jail upon release; provides enhancedprison security and officer safety; gives non-violent offenders the opportunity to be productive members of society when they finish serving their time; and other reforms. The bill passed the Senate in a vote of 87 to 12.\r\nCongress has finally heard the call from Oklahomans and Americans to address some important aspects of federal criminal justice reform while remainingtough on crime, said Lankford. We still have work to do, but this bill balances the need to keep our communities safe while providing an opportunity for prisoners to earn a second chance. We can and should encourage job training, family connection, and other important development programs for inmates so they can leave crime when they leave prison. This bill creates incentives for inmates to improve themselves, rather than just do time.It also finally provides some reforms that law enforcement and federal prison leadership have requested for years. Ultimately, we will never reduce the rate of criminals re-engaging in crime, if we do not change the way we incarcerate and rehabilitate our criminals.\r\nThe bill includes important human rights provisions like prohibiting the use of restraints on pregnant prisoners (with safety exceptions) and limiting the use of solitary confinement of juveniles. That particular provisionis modeled on thebipartisan MERCY Act sponsored by Lankford and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ).\r\nDespite some misinformation being circulated, the First Step Act's recidivism reduction program does not shorten sentences, even for those with good behavior. In fact, earned time that could be used at the end of a sentence to transition to lower-security facilities is unavailable to inmates who present a medium or high risk to recidivate. The bill also classifies numerous heinous crimes as ineligible from using earned time credits for this purpose. For example, those ineligible include traffickers of fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine. TheFirst Step Act does restore congressional intent regarding good time credits, which are current law and allow a prisoner who has displayed exemplary compliance with prison discipline rules and who has also made satisfactory progress toward an educational degree to earn 54 days a year toward reducing his or her sentence.\r\nLankford offered an amendment, which passed by voice vote, to the First Step Act to allow faith-based groups to provide job training, social and family development to our prison population the same as non-faith-based groups. The amendment ensures that faith-based communities can engage with prison communities but prevents federal funds from being used for overtly religious activities.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/supporting-rural-america", "Supporting Rural America", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As Congress continues to finish its work this year, I am encouraged that lawmakers in both chambers recently finalized and approved legislation that is vital to the success of our nation's farmers and ranchers. Introduced under various titles over the years but known generally as the Farm Bill, this comprehensive piece of legislation is revisited every five years to ensure the best results are still being delivered to producers and consumers.\nWhile Oklahoma leads across several industries, agriculture is truly at the heart of our state's commerce. Considering that there are more than 13,000 farms and ranches in the Fourth District of Oklahoma alone, there is no question that the Farm Bill matters to the economy and vitality of rural America.\nDuring the summer, I was pleased that the House and Senate successfully passed versions of the 2018 Farm Bill and then initiated negotiations to reconcile the differences in a joint conference committee. Though I did not serve on the panel, I am proud that the resulting agreement continued to build on the 2014 Farm Bill that was guided by Oklahoma's own Frank Lucas, who again played a key role in crafting the most recent legislation.\nTo maintain healthy crops and produce, farmers and ranchers greatly rely on the crop insurance, conservation and various other programs contained in the Farm Bill. This is widely realized across our state.\nOklahoma's farmers are no strangers to unpredictable obstacles  like droughts and natural disasters  that can jeopardize a harvest or destroy crops entirely. Crop insurance is vital to protecting years of hard work in times of abundance and in unexpected times of scarcity. Along with preserving and strengthening crop insurance coverage, I am pleased that the final version of the 2018 Farm Bill prioritizes research and development to determine risk management solutions and financial protection options  especially in the wake of natural disasters.\nAlong with the important support provided by crop insurance, producers know that conservation is critical to the longevity and fruitfulness of our natural resources. When farmers can work well-preserved and quality lands, crops are more likely to yield a better harvest. The final version of the Farm Bill continues to maintain the Conservation Reserve Program, which has benefited Oklahoma's farmers for decades. The program supports farmers with the most vulnerable lands and provides for revitalization of those lands through appropriate farming standards. This program also promotes soil conservation and protects farmers from going out of business.\nWithout question, there are no better stewards of the land than those whose livelihood depends on that land. While the reauthorization of securities for producers promotes a thriving agricultural sector, American families and consumers are also better off when certainty is provided to our food growers and producers. I am pleased that the 2018 Farm Bill delivers on just that.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-provides-oversight-of-us-operations-in-afghanistan", "Senator Lankford Provides Oversight of US Operations in Afghanistan", "2018-12-17", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.17.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Provides Oversight of US Operations in Afghanistan \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) provided the following statement today after he returned from a congressional delegation trip to Afghanistan (Kabul, Mazar-e Sharif, and Kandahar) to conduct oversight of ongoing US operations on the ground. Lankford traveled with the Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, Richard Burr (R-NC), and Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA).\r\nThis oversight trip was a great opportunity to directly see the ongoing operations in Afghanistan to work toward peaceful reconciliation in the government and to combat terrorist cells in the region, said Lankford. It's important for Congressand Intelligence Committee members in particularto conduct oversight of our operations in Afghanistan and express the gratitude of the nation for the incredible work of the men and women serving there.\r\nIt was an honor to represent Oklahoma families and personally thankthe men and women serving in Afghanistan this Christmas season. Their mission has real significance for the stability of the region and the security of the US. We cannot thank them enough for their daily sacrifice. Meeting Americans on the ground in Afghanistan is essential to understanding how far we have come since 2001 and how many major achievements they have completed.\r\nFor almost two decades, the United States has shown our resolve to not allow Afghanistan to be a safe place again for terrorists. We should continue to encourage reconciliation between the tribal and ideological factions in Afghanistan so they can defend themselves from international terror organizations who exploit open land and an impoverished people to carry out their evil mission. The US has led a coalition to confront lethal terrorists and equip Afghans to defend their own families. The majority of the fighting in Afghanistan is now rightfully led by Afghans.\r\nJust like the US has a long-term base agreement with Honduras to confront narco-terrorists in Central America, we should maintain a long-term presence in Afghanistan to confront terrorists in that region. We have accomplished the critical goals in Afghanistan, but we should not pretend that ISIS, al Qaeda, and other terror organizations have simply given up their quest to kill Americans and destroy our culture. The past several days were a reminder that our own national defense mandates the critical mission in Afghanistan\r\nThe war in Afghanistan is not about controlling territory or occupying a nation; America has always been a nation that sets other people free. While we encourage peace talks and a cease fire, we should also work toward a long-term agreement that transitions even more responsibility for national defense to the Afghan government, while maintaining an American presence in the region to defend our own interests.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-applauds-passage-2018-farm-bill", "Lucas Applauds Passage of the 2018 Farm Bill", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) applauds the passage of the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 2  Agricultural Improvement Act in both the House and Senate.\nI am pleased my colleagues in the House and Senate have acted to pass the 2018 Farm Bill, said Congressman Lucas. This legislation builds upon the successes of the 2014 Farm Bill by protecting the safety net for producers and ensuring our fellow citizens have access to affordable, high-quality food. Low commodity prices have created a challenging environment for our country's farmers and ranchers, so the farm safety net is more important than ever in providing producers with much-needed economic certainty. \nClick Here to view the Conference Report", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-letter_-december-14", "Lankford Letter - December 14", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "How Can I Help?", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-06-27T23:11:43Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-joins-letter-to-president-trump-on-keystone-xl-pipeline", "Senator Lankford Joins Letter to President Trump on Keystone XL Pipeline", "2018-12-14", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.14.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Joins Letter to President Trump on Keystone XL Pipeline \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) todayjoined43 Members of Congress to send a letter to President Trump to urgeany immediate action necessary to move construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline forward after a federal judge issued a decision that blocked construction of the pipeline in November.\r\nThe Keystone XL pipeline will bring nearly 6600 high paying jobs in the near-term and nearly $4 billion in new capital investment next year alone, the letter states. [O]ne of your first actions as President was to expedite the approval and construction of the Keystone XL pipeline across six western and rural states. While we sincerely appreciate your strong leadership on this issue, we write now to encourage that leadership and attention to continue so that this important infrastructure project can become a reality.\r\nTo read the full letter, CLICK HERE.\r\nDecember 14, 2018\r\nThe President  The White House  1600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW  Washington, DC 20502\r\nDear Mr. President,\r\nWe thank you for your prioritization of job creation and energy dominance in America. Towards that end, one of your first actions as President was to expedite the approval and construction of the Keystone XL pipeline across six western and rural states. While we sincerely appreciate your strong leadership on this issue, we write now to encourage that leadership and attention to continue so that this important infrastructure project can become a reality.\r\nA recent harmful federal court decision in Montana has brought real and immediate consequences, halting critical pre-construction activities and invalidating the analysis that underlies the approval issued by your Administration. The ruling also called for more lengthy environmental review. This comes despite extensive review by the previous Administration saying the pipeline will have minimal environmental impact and generate significant economic benefits. As such, we urge you to take any appropriate action necessary to move construction forward.\r\nThe Keystone XL pipeline will bring nearly 66,000 high paying jobs in the near-term and nearly $4 billion in new capital investment next year alone. In fact, pre-construction activities enjoined by the recent federal court decision are leaving nearly 700 jobs for hardworking Americans in the balance. While we believe that it is important to conduct appropriate environmental reviews, we also believe that further review will not contribute to the existing body of science that already supports pipeline construction and instead will have a significant impact on our rural communities.\r\nWe respectfully urge you to take every practical step to get this project over the finish line and workers back on the construction sites. We thank you for your attention to this matter and your passion for rural America.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/news/video-and-audio/view/inhofe-speaks-on-senate-floor-about-yemen", "Inhofe Speaks on Senate Floor about Yemen", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", null, 0, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-peace-in-yemen-opposes-resolution", "Senator Lankford Supports Peace in Yemen; Opposes Resolution", "2018-12-13", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.13.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Supports Peace in Yemen; Opposes Resolution \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DCSenator James Lankford (R-OK) today expressed his support for peace in Yemen and opposed passage of a resolution before the Senate to attempt to halt what some have falselyclaimed isAmerican involvement in the hostilities in Yemen between the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and the Yemeni government. Despite Lankford's \"no\" vote, the resolution ultimately passed in a vote of 56 to 41.Earlier today, Lankford also delivered remarks on the Senate floor about US involvement in Yemen.\r\nAt the end of November, the Senate advanced a joint resolution to cut off US military support to the Saudi-led coalition against the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen who illegitimately and forcibly overthrew Yemen's government in 2014. The joint resolution, introduced by Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) andMikeLee (R-UT), argued that the President is not authorized by Congress or other legal means to involve the US military in the conflict in Yemen. The resolution advanced by a vote of 63-37, allowing it to come up for a vote today. This same resolution was unsuccessfully considered in the Senate in March of this year.\r\nIn Yemen, some of the worst terrorists who directly target US citizens are hiding in the ungoverned desert, taking advantage of the civil war in the southern and western regions of the country, said Lankford. TheUS military is currently only engaged with terrorist entities in Yemen such as al-Qaeda and ISIS; they are not directly involved in the civil war orfighting the Iran-backed Houthis.Our forces remain committed to working to prevent the loss of life of as many of the Yemeni people as possible. The US providesguidance on ways to comply with international laws governing armed conflict and ways to reduce civilian casualties. UN-brokered peace talks between the two sides are currently ongoing in Sweden, and withdrawing US engagement now could undermine the peace process. If Congress forces the Trump Administration to cease our support for the Saudi-led coalitionsomething that began under President Obamait would yield more civilian deaths, prolong the prospect for peace in Yemen, and give Iran another Middle East stronghold for its aggressive, anti-US influence campaign.In short, withdrawal is certain to make a bad situation in Yemen even worse. We cannot allow political games to cloud our judgment in supporting long-term US interests in Yemen and the greater Middle East.\r\nThe US is providing humanitarian aid to the Yemeni people at a scale unmatched by any othercountry and is the largest contributor of assistance to Yemen, providing nearly $1.5 billion since Fiscal Year 2015.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1397", "Mullin Supports Passage of 2018 Farm Bill", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) joined 368 of his colleagues in a bipartisan vote to pass the 2018 Farm Bill in the House. The bill now heads to President Trump's desk for signature into law.\r\nThe 2018 Farm Bill maintains several vital provisions to provide crop insurance, manage risk, increase loan rates, and cut burdensome red tape for our farmers and ranchers, said Mullin. Most importantly, the Farm Bill brings reassurance in times of need to the 2.1 million American farms that feed our country and the world. \r\nFor Oklahoma's farmers and ranchers, I am glad to see provisions that will help rural areas, such as improving rural broadband delivery and increasing funding for rural health projects that aim to combat the opioid epidemic. I am proud to support the passage of the Farm Bill today on the House floor.\r\nHowever, I am disappointed that Congress did not do more to reform the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by implementing commonsense work requirements. At a time when the job market has 7.1 million openings, there is no better time than now for Americans to find meaningful work. \r\nThe House passed the Conference Report by a vote of 369  47. Congressman Mullin also supported the House version of the 2018 Farm Bill, which included work requirements for able-bodied adults receiving SNAP benefits.\r\nBackground\r\nThe 2018 Farm Bill conference report includes keys wins for American farmers and ranchers, rural communities, and consumers  all within a budgetneutral framework. The conference report strengthens the farm safety net and provides certainty and flexibility to America's farmers and ranchers. It helps combat the predatory trading practices of foreign countries. It helps improve our response to natural disasters, and it restructures critical incentives to improve our soil, water, and other natural resources. The conference report also makes improvements to the nation's largest antihunger program (SNAP) to improve program integrity and incentivize work. Key highlights include:\r\n \r\n    Improving farm policy by:\r\n    Providing a nationwide yield update for Price Loss Coverage (PLC) beginning with the 2020 crop year and allowing PLC to better respond to market conditions;\r\n    Making several key improvements to Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC), including increased yield plugs and yield trend adjustments;\r\n    Providing a new ARC/PLC election for 2019/2020 and authorizing annual ARC/PLC elections (cropbycrop and farmbyfarm) beginning in 2021;\r\n    Increasing loan rates to more relevant levels;\r\n    Improving the dairy safety net for large, midsized, and small dairy producers; and\r\n    Protecting farm families from additional, costly, and unneeded red tape.\r\n    Improving the incentives and opportunities within the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) and shifting additional resources ($275 million per year) to the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). The conference report also targets the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) to our most environmentally sensitive lands.\r\n    Laying the groundwork for improved Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) policy by preserving the administration's flexibility to rein in SNAP work requirement waivers for able bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs). The conference report focuses on improving program integrity and otherwise incentivizing work to move people toward selfsufficiency.\r\n    Reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires by renewing a key categorical exclusion (CE) and expanding its purpose to allow for expedited reduction of hazardous fuels in our forests.\r\n    Making significant improvements to rural broadband delivery, including forwardlooking standards to ensure we are meeting nextgeneration rural broadband needs.\r\n    Enhancing U.S. agricultural trade by streamlining the suite of market promotion initiatives under one umbrella and providing $470 million in additional funding.\r\n    Providing $300 million in funding for animal disease prevention and management efforts, including the stockpiling of footandmouth disease (FMD) vaccine.\r\n    Protecting crop insurance and making several key improvements, including new insurance products for forage producers and improvements to whole farm revenue coverage for specialty crop producers.\r\n    Providing an increase of over $600 million in funding for research, extension, and education projects, keeping American agriculture at the forefront of innovation and productivity.\r\n    Dedicating funding to rural health projects to help Americans struggling with opioid addictions and other substance abuse disorders.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-praises-passage-2018-farm-bill-conference-report", "Cole Praises Passage of 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "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. 2 - Agriculture Improvement Act. The legislation reflects the bicameral agreement reached to reconcile the differences between previously passed versions of the 2018 Farm Bill in the House and Senate.\nThrough passage of the conference report for the 2018 Farm Bill, I am pleased that lawmakers showed bipartisan support for the continued success of our nation's farmers and ranchers, said Cole. To maintain healthy crops and produce, farmers and ranchers greatly rely on the crop insurance, conservation and various other programs contained in the Farm Bill. While the reauthorization of these vital securities promotes a thriving agricultural sector, American families and consumers are also better off when certainty is provided to our food growers and producers.\nThe 2018 Farm Bill builds upon the 2014 bill guided by Oklahoma's own Frank Lucas. He also played a key role in crafting the current legislation. Oklahoma and rural America are fortunate to have such a skillful legislator working on their behalf.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-joins-senators-in-urging-faa-to-implement-and-improve-airport-contract-tower-program", "Inhofe Joins Senators in Urging FAA to Implement and Improve Airport Contract Tower Program", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Joins Senators in Urging FAA to Implement and Improve Airport Contract Tower Program\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 12, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Inhofe (R-Okla.) joined U.S. Sens. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) in a bipartisan letter with 35 Senators urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement a provision in this year's FAA spending bill allowing airports that utilize the contract tower program to become eligible for Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants from the small airport fund. This provision, which was introduced and included in the recent FAA Reauthorization law, will enhance air traffic safety at small, rural airports, including many Oklahoma airports.\r\nNot only do these contract towers provide an important safety service, but they do it in a very cost-effective manner, the senators wrote.It is Congress's clear intent that tower construction, improvement, and related equipment should be given priority when deciding which projects should receive grants from the small airport fund.\r\nIn addition to Sens. Inhofe, Cortez Masto and Warren, the letter was joined by Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), James Risch (R-Idaho), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Doug Jones (R-Ala.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Gary Peters (Mich.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Steve Daines (Mont.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).\r\nA PDF of the letter is availablehereand below:\r\nDear Acting Administrator Elwell:\r\nAs you begin implementing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2018, we would like to draw your attention to section 152 of that Act. Section 152 authorizes you to make AIP grants from the small airport fund to an airport participating in the contract tower program for the purpose of constructing or improving its air traffic control tower and for the acquisition and installation of related equipment.\r\nThe contract tower program has been in place for over 30 years. Now there are 256 airports in 46 states that participate in this program. The program consistently receives high marks for customer service from aviation users (pilots, airlines, FBOs, flight schools and corporate flight departments). Without it, people living and traveling to our small communities and rural areas would be without the important safety benefits that air traffic control provides.\r\nNot only do these contract towers provide an important safety service, but they do it in a very cost-effective manner. This is demonstrated by the fact that contract towers handle approximately 29 percent of all U.S. air traffic control tower operations, but account for just 11 percent of FAA's overall budget allotted to such operations. This means that the contract tower program saves the FAA and tax payers approximately $200 million per year and $2 billion over 10 years.\r\nIn addition to the safety and financial benefits, the contract tower program plays a key role in connecting rural communities to the national air transportation system, helps airports retain and develop commercial air service, promotes economic development and job creation, provides significant support for military readiness and training as well as for disaster relief, homeland security, and law enforcement operations.\r\nFor all these reasons, the contract tower program enjoys widespread support in the Congress. That is why Congress included section 152, as well as other provisions to boost the contract tower program, in the FAA Reauthorization Act. It is important to note that this provision authorizing small airport funds for tower construction and improvement was placed in subsection (d) of section 47116 of the United States Code. Subsection (d) is entitled Priority Consideration for Certain Projects. This provision could have been placed in section 47124 but it was placed in subsection 47116(d) instead precisely because Congress wanted air traffic control tower construction and improvement projects to receive priority consideration for grants from the small airport fund. It is therefore Congress's clear intent that tower construction, improvement, and related equipment should be given priority when deciding which projects should receive grants from the small airport fund. Priority consideration for these projects is fully justified in light of the safety, financial, and other benefits that these towers provide at small airports and in rural areas.\r\nWe expect FAA to follow congressional intent in implementing this important provision that will enhance air traffic safety at smaller and rural airports throughout the country, including utilizing the benefit/cost ratios for new airport applicants/candidates that FAA submitted to Congress in April, 2018.\r\nIn this connection, we would like you to explain to us how the FAA will revise its National Priority Ranking and related order to ensure that funding for air traffic control tower construction, improvements, and related equipment receive the priority intended in the law. In addition, we request that, after the end of this fiscal year, you provide us with a list of the airports that requested money from the small airport fund for tower construction, improvement, or related equipment, a list of those airports that received such funds for that purpose, and a statement explaining why airports did not receive such funding even though they requested it.\r\nWe appreciate your timely attention to this matter and look forward to continuing to work with you in a constructive manner on this important issue.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-opposes-resolution-to-roll-back-critical-privacy-protections-for-taxpayers", "Senator Lankford Opposes Resolution to Roll Back Critical Privacy Protections for Taxpayers", "2018-12-12", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.12.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Opposes Resolution to Roll Back Critical Privacy Protections for Taxpayers \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today opposed a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution that would continue to burden taxpayers and non-profit organizations with meaningless paperwork.\r\nThe IRS should not require and keep data they do not need, especially from non-profit organizations, said Lankford. The Treasury's actions to protect private, personal information to ensure the data security of citizens who are engaged in non-profit work. As Americans, we are rightly skeptical when private businesses keep and store our information; the federal government even more so. The law has always required that this data remains private.\r\n\r\nIndividuals are required to keep records of their nonprofit contributions on hand in the event of an IRS audit. With this Treasury rule, tax-exempt organizations are subject to the same keep in case you get audited' requirement.\r\n\r\nPrior to Treasury's July policy change, the IRS required an organization to list all contributors in their tax filing, and then publicly release the same filing with redactions to protect donors from being exposed to the public, butthis information has been leaked by IRS employees in the past. Under the new policy change, organizations must still keep track of all contributors who gave at least $5,000 and must make that information available to the IRS upon request. The rule requires the new version the IRS receives to match the redacted version released under the previous rules prior to July.\r\nThe CRA permits Congress to overturn an agency rule with a simple majority vote within 60 legislative days after an agency has submitted the rule to Congress. For the resolution to take effect, it must pass both the Senate and House and be signed into law by the President.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1396", "Western Caucus Applauds EPA and Trump Admin's Action To Reverse Job-Killing WOTUS Rule", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, members of the Congressional Western Caucus commended the EPA's official reversal of WOTUS:\r\nChairman Paul Gosar (AZ-04): \"Like a villain in Scooby Doo, the past Administration almost got away with an unparalleled expansion of Federal power. The WOTUS land and water-grab rule proposed by the Obama Administration was one of the greatest regulatory threats to the West and rural communities. Fortunately, this legally-dubious effort was unmasked for what it was by the Supreme Court and this Administration. I'm happy to see some sanity restored to Clean Water Act implementation. Thank you Acting Administrator Wheeler and President Trump for taking the lead and crafting a definition that adheres to the original law, promotes extremely clean and safe waterways, and remains Federalist in its nature.\" Executive Vice Chairman Scott Tipton (CO-03): \"The Obama Administration's Waters of the United States Rule (WOTUS) was one of the most onerous federal water and land grabs in this nation's history, usurping long-held state water law, threatening access to private water rights and jeopardizing the success of the economy. The damaging impact of WOTUS cannot be disregarded, so the EPA's proposed new rule is welcome news. It is high time that we provide certainty to America's farmers, ranchers and landowners, whose livelihoods rely on water.\" Vice Chairman for Indian Affairs and Oceans Don Young (AK-At Large): \"The Obama-era WOTUS rule is a shining example of federal overreach. I'm pleased to see Administrator Wheeler take action in implementing President Trump's promise to overturn this shortsighted rule. I will continue to work with this administration to ensure state and local governments are able to effectively manage their waters without the unnecessary and inconsistent oversight of the federal government.\" Chief Rules Officer Dan Newhouse (WA-04): \"I applaud the EPA's decision to repeal the burdensome WOTUS rule and give clarification to land owners, farmers, and ranchers across the country. The Obama Administration's WOTUS rule gave the federal government unprecedented power to expansively interpret the definition of a navigable waterway.' I know farmers and ranchers in Central Washington will continue to strive to be good stewards of their land and the environment, and the Trump Administration's newly-defined rule will finally give them the certainty they deserve.\" Chief Regulatory Reform Officer Andy Biggs (AZ-05): \"I support Acting Administrator Wheeler's efforts to change course from the unconstitutional Obama-era WOTUS rule. This rule is a blatant attack on property rights and is an expansion of government bureaucracy. I am hopeful that this new administrative action will bring much-needed relief to farmers, ranchers, and miners across the West. I continue to call on Congress to codify the administration's positive steps.\" Rep. Markwayne Mullin (OK-02):The Waters of the United States (WOTUS) Rule has been detrimental to our country's farmers and ranchers since the day it was put in place by the Obama Administration. The federal government doesn't belong regulating every creek, ditch, and stream.This proposed replacement rule from the Trump Administration gives farmers, ranchers, and small business owners the power to take care of their backyards without the unnecessary red tape they face now. I applaud the Trump Administration for the proposed rule.\r\n\r\nBackground:\r\nCourtesy of the Environmental Protection Agency\r\nToday, December 11, 2018, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army (Army) proposed a revised definition of waters of the United States, which would delineate the scope of federal regulatory authority under the Clean Water Act in a clear and understandable way.\r\nThe agencies are concerned that the previous administration's 2015 Rule defining waters of the United States may have greatly expanded Washington's control over local land use decisions. The agencies' new proposal respects the constitutional and statutory limits of federal government to regulate navigable water under the Clean Water Act and gives states and tribes more flexibility to determine how best to manage waters within their borders. The agencies' new proposed definition will fulfill President Trump's commitment to end this federal overreach. It ends year of uncertainty over where federal jurisdiction begins and ends. It is clear and easy to understand. It will help landowners understand whether a project on his or her property will require a federal permit or not, without spending tens of thousands of dollars on engineering and legal professionals. This certainty and clarity will save Americans time and money while accelerating infrastructure projects and economic development.\r\nRight now, because of litigation, the 2015 waters of the United States rule is in effect in 22 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. territories; and the previous regulations, issued in the 1980s, are in effect in the remaining 28 states. This inconsistent regulatory patchwork creates uncertainty and hinders projects that can benefit both the environment and the economy. The proposed definition would establish national consistency and would rebalance the relationship between the federal government and states in managing land and water resources. States already have their own regulations for waters within their borders, regardless of whether they are federally regulated as waters of the United States. The agencies' new proposal will eliminate the time-consuming and uncertain process of determining whether a significant nexus exists between a water and a downstream traditional navigable water as directed under the agencies' 2008 Rapanos Guidance or whether a water has a significant nexus to a traditional navigable water, interstate water or territorial sea as codified in the agencies' 2015 Rule defining waters of the United States. EPA and the Army listened to those directly impacted by the regulations and are proposing a definition that includes the following key aspects:\r\n \r\n    Excludes ephemeral streams and related features.\r\n    Covers only adjacent wetlands that are physically and meaningfully connected to other jurisdictional waters.\r\n    Cuts most ditches from unnecessary federal regulation.\r\n    Eliminates the use of subjective tests to determine jurisdiction over individual waters.\r\n    Retains exclusions for groundwater, prior converted cropland, stormwater control systems, some wastewater recycling structures, groundwater recharge basins, and waste treatment systems from federal Clean Water Act regulation.\r\n    Regulates perennial and intermittent tributaries to traditional navigable waters.\r\n \r\n\r\nThe agencies will take comment on the proposal for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. The agencies will also hold an informational webcast on January 10, 2019, and will host a public hearing on the proposed rule in Kansas City, KS, on January 23, 2019. Additional information on both engagements is available at https://www.epa.gov/wotus-rule. Comments on the proposal should be identified by Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OW-2018-0149 and may be submitted online. Go to https://www.regulations.gov \r\nCourtesy of the Congressional Western Caucus\r\nOne of the Western Caucus' main priorities is repealing the Obama Administration's Water of the United States (WOTUS) rule, which was finalized by former EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy in 2015. \r\nOn March 25, 2014, the EPA and the Corps of Engineers released a proposed rule that would assert Clean Water Act jurisdiction over nearly all areas with even the slightest of connections to water resources, including man-made conveyances. Specifically, this WOTUS Rule attempted to expand agency control over 60% of our country's streams and millions of acres of wetlands that were previously non-jurisdictional. The Obama Administration tried to make the case that waters of the United States refers not just to permanent bodies of navigable water, but to far smaller bodies of water including those that are tiny, seasonal or even ones that do not connect up with larger water systems. This was an astounding departure from longstanding interpretation of the Clean Water Act that expanded federal power to reach into every nook and cranny of our nation's waterways under a flimsy Commerce Clause argument. Family farmers were kept awake at night, worried that rains wouldn't let up before turning their puddles into regulated ponds and running them out of business in the process. Recreational water and marsh users were rightfully wary that Federal regulators would invade their turf and suddenly declare their sport of choice too harmful on the waterway. Developers preemptively pulled out of projects deemed at high risk of falling under federal environmental jurisdiction  all because the Feds may declare a nearby ditch jurisdictional. And when they do declare jurisdiction, it's not just water under the bridge. Individual Clean Water Act permits have taken an average of 788 days to process and $271,596 on the part of the applicant; fines and criminal liability await those who skirt these requirements. Lives and livelihoods are at stake.\r\nWOTUS negatively impacts states throughout the country by impeding upon state's rights, encroaching on private lands, and violating the civil liberties of many Americans.  On 05/21/2018, Western Caucus Member Jim Banks (IN-03) introduced an amendment to the Farm Bill that would repeal WOTUS. It passed the House with a bipartisan vote of 238-173 and 13 Democrats supporting repeal.\r\n \r\n    View Western Caucus Press Releases on WOTUS and the Farm Bill here and here.\r\n    View letter sent to Farm Bill Conferees by Reps. Banks and Walker, Western Caucus Members and 51 total Members urging repeal of WOTUS here.\r\n \r\n\r\nOn 07/19/2018, H.R. 6147, the Department of the Interior, Environment, Financial Services, and General Government Appropriations Act of 2019 passed the House of Representatives.\r\n \r\n    One of the numerous provisions that the bill contained was a Western Caucus provision to repeal WOTUS.\r\n    View the Western Caucus Press Release here.\r\n \r\nLast Congress, more than 170 bipartisan members cosponsored legislation calling for WOTUS to be repealed and another 120 bipartisan signed a letter urging repeal. That request can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-speaks-on-senate-floor-common-sense-for-the-common-defense", "ICYMI: Inhofe Speaks on Senate Floor: Common Sense for the Common Defense", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: Inhofe Speaks on Senate Floor: Common Sense for the Common Defense\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 11, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, spoke on the Senate floor today with the first Common Sense for the Common Defense, a series of floor speeches designed to highlight key national security policies.\r\n\r\nClick here to view remarks.\r\nAs prepared for delivery:\r\nMr. President, I don't know how, but a lot of people back home have got it in their heads that defending America is a complicated issue  one best discussed by a brain trust or by people in Washington.\r\nThat couldn't be farther from the truth. The reality is that defending America is just plain common sense.\r\nAnd we all, every American citizen, need to be responsible for our national security. So I'm going to be coming here each week to outline the common sense for our common defensewhat we are working on here in Washingtonfor families back home.\r\nToday I will talk about how we face an urgency in funding our national defense. It is simply common sense.\r\nWithout action to exempt the military from sequestration or reach a budget agreement, we will once again face the devastating cuts of the Budget Control Act.\r\nWe know what the result of that will be  we saw it during the Obama Administration. Without sufficient, sustained, and predictable funding, we will squander the progress the military has made over the past two years-- improved readiness, increased procurement of critical capabilities, and investment in future technologies.\r\nWe need to continue to make progress, and we also need to implement the National Defense Strategy. The Trump administration's National Defense Strategy correctly prioritized strategic competition with China and Russia. But to be effective, strategies must be matched with resources.\r\nThe National Defense Strategy Commissiona bipartisan, independent commissionwrote, Put bluntly, the U.S. military could lose the next state-versus-state war it fights. Furthermore, there must be greater urgency and seriousness in funding national defense.\r\nAt a minimum, next year's defense budget should be $733 billion dollars. That is a floornot a ceilinganything less would require the military to start making unacceptable cuts. And $733 billion is a no-growth budget from this year adjusting only for inflation.\r\nThe bipartisan Commission, Secretary Mattis, and General Dunford have called for fully implementing the National Defense Strategy, which would require an additional 3-5% percent real growth.\r\nSome on both sides of the aisle have advocated for cutting defense spending because of the increasing deficit. I'm concerned about the deficit too, but we can't let ourselves fall into this false choice.\r\nDefense spending is not the primary reason for our increasing debt. We could eliminate the entire Pentagon budget, and the deficit would grow.\r\nHere's why. Over the past ten years, our national debt has grown 86 percent. During the same time, mandatory spending has grown 41 percent, while defense spending has been cut three percent.\r\nI'm going to say that again. Cut three percent. Meanwhile, constant dollar defense spending dropped $200 billion from 2010 to 2015. In 2010 - $794 billion. In 2015- $586 billion. In percentage terms, this is the fastest drawdown since the years following the Korean War. That's how serious this is.\r\nWe must do something about our growing debt, but the only way to actually curtail it is to address the growth in mandatory spendingnot by cutting defense spending or demanding dollar-for-dollar increases in non-defense spending. Parity.\r\nAs mandatory entitlement programs drive spending growth to new highs, debt held by the American people has correspondingly increased. If we don't do something about these entitlements, interest on that debt will surpass defense spending by FY2023 and continue to grow.\r\nThe simple fact is defense spending does not drive the national debt; growth in mandatory entitlement spending drives our national debt. We cannot ignore this reality. We bankrupt our security and undermine our troops when we choose to ignore this fact.\r\nBut the Obama Administration viewed the world as they wanted to see it not as it was. The assumption that Russia is a strategic partner was, and is, fundamentally flawed and profoundly misguided. It has cost us dearly.\r\nToday, we are faced with the reality that those decisions not only weakened our national security by sacrificing our military advantages over Russia, but it will be costly to recoup the capabilities President Obama chose to cut.\r\nSimply put, the Obama Administration spent 8 years digging a very deep hole in regards to military spending and it is going to take more than two years to dig ourselves out. Why is that?\r\nWhen the military is forced to reduce spending it must make trade-offs between lowering readiness, reducing force structure, and not modernizing. In the case of the 8 years of Obama, all 3 suffered.\r\nIn the meantime, our adversaries have increased their own military spending and focused on force structure and modernization.\r\nThe size of the Chinese Navy will soon surpass the U.S. Navy and the gap will only widen through 2030 when the Chinese are projected to have 425 ships, nearly 100 more than the U.S. Navy.\r\nOver the 2000 to 2030 timeframe, the U.S. Navy is growing at an average rate of approximately 1 ship every 2 years, while the Chinese Navy is growing more than 20-times faster at an average rate of about 10 ships annually, and the quality and capability of those ships is increasing as well.\r\nAs Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee I see no bigger imperative than this: to fully fund our defense and fully implement the National Defense Strategy in a timely manner by avoiding continuing resolutions and sequestration. That is common sense for our common defense.\r\nYou know, when I talk to people out in the real worldand I am talking about going out to Oklahoma, talking to groups of people. When they find out that It was true ever since world war II that we have had the occasion of increasingof being number one in all areas of our equipment, such as artillery and other things, they're shocked to find out that the Chinese and the Russians actually have equipment that's better than us.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-applauds-release-of-new-wotus-rule", "Inhofe Applauds Release of New WOTUS Rule", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Applauds Release of New WOTUS Rule\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 11, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Environmental and Public Works Committee, praised the release of the new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. This rule will replace the flawed 2015 regulation of the Obama Administration, which expanded the definition of Waters of the United States under the Clean Water Act, granting the federal government sweeping authority to regulate virtually all waters or wet areas throughout the country. The revised rule is supported by key stakeholders, including theFarm Bureau.\r\nWe needed a right-sized WOTUS rule, and that is exactly what President Trump and Acting Administrator Wheeler delivered. The new rule will clearly define the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act in a straightforward manner, alleviating the burden farmers and landowners face under the Obama-era rule requiring them to spend tens of thousands of unnecessary dollars to determine if they need to obtain a federal permit to make improvements to their land. Thirty-two states, two courts and even members of Obama's own administration all agreed that the Obama-era WOTUS rule was deeply flawed and an illegal land-grab by unelected federal bureaucrats. The new WOTUS rule changes all of that by helping farmers, ranchers, homebuilders and energy producers across Oklahoma focus on their businessnot red tapeand I am glad we are moving in the right direction.\r\n \r\nOn June 27, 2017, Inhofe praised the EPA's proposed WOTUS repeal.\r\nOnFeb. 28, 2017,Inhofe praised President Trump's executive order that started to dismantle to the WOTUS rule.\r\n \r\n \r\nInSeptember 2016,Inhofe released a report entitledFrom Preventing Pollution of Navigable and Interstate Waters to Regulating Farm Fields, Puddles and Dry Land: A Senate Report on the Expansion of Jurisdiction Claimed by the Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Water Act,which detailed the expansion of the EPA and Army Corps' jurisdiction under the Obama administration.\r\nInJanuary 2016, Inhofe joined Sen. Sasse (R-Neb.) in formally requesting that the Department of Justice investigate whether officials at the EPA knowingly violated federal law in its WOTUS propaganda campaign. InDecember 2015, the Government Accountability Office determined that the EPA violated the law when it used taxpayer dollars for covert propaganda and unauthorized publicity as well as for indirect or grassroots lobbying on WOTUS.\r\nThat same month, Inhofe sent a letter to the EPA requesting feedback on state implementation of EPA regulatory programs, including WOTUS. Inhofe released the EPA's responses during theMarch 2016EPW hearing entitled Cooperative Federalism: State Perspectives on EPA Regulatory Actions and the Role of States as Co-Regulators.\r\nCongress passed a Congressional Review Act (CRA) Resolution of Disapproval against the WOTUS rule in January 2016. President Obama latervetoedthis legislation and the Congress failed to override his veto.\r\nOnNov. 3,2015, Senate Democrats blocked consideration of Inhofe's S. 1140 by a vote of 5741. Thefollowing daythe Senate passed S.J. 22 Resolution of Disapproval introduced by Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) by a vote of 5444. An additional 15 Senators had publically expressed concerns with WOTUS. Sen. Inhofe criticized the 11 Democrats that voted against the measure, despite signing onto a letter to the EPA asking for clarification of the final WOTUS rule\r\nInJuly 2015, Inhofe sent a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers requesting confirmation of information presented to the EPW committee in an internal Army Corps of Engineers document that expressed grave concerns with the rule.\r\nDespite a number of outstanding concerns, the final WOTUS rule went into effect inJune2015.However, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a stay on the rule inOctober 2015, blocking the final rule from going into effect after being challenged by 32 states.\r\nThefollowing monthInhofe introduced bipartisan legislation, S. 1140,The Federal Water Quality Protection Act,which would revise the WOTUS rule to no longer include a number of small bodies of water. President Obama threatened tovetothis legislation.\r\nInMarch 2015, Inhofe joined Sen. Barrasso (R-Wyo.) and 15 other Senators in sponsoring Barrasso's Senate Budget Resolution amendment limiting the expansion of the WOTUS definition. This amendment passed the Senate by a vote of 5940.\r\nAfter becoming chairman of the EPW committee at the start of 2015, InhofejoinedU.S. Representative Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), chairman of the of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in calling for the withdrawal of the WOTUS rule following a bicameral hearing on the rule.\r\nInMarch 2014the Obama administration, EPA and Army Corps of Engineers announced a proposal to expand the definition of the waters of theUnitedStates in the Clean Water Act from navigable waters to virtually any body of water and wetland. In following months, Inhofe sent a number of letters to the President and EPA urging them to reconsider the rule.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-applauds-senate-passage-of-2018-farm-bill", "Inhofe Applauds Senate Passage of 2018 Farm Bill", "2018-12-11", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Applauds Senate Passage of 2018 Farm Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 11, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after voting in favor of the 2018 Farm Bill, legislation that renews major farm programs, crop insurance, farm credit and conservation programs.\r\nThe passage of today's farm bill is a win for farmers, ranchers and the American taxpayer. It ensures producers in Oklahoma and across the country have flexibility in crop programs and certainty for future seasons, while supporting critical investments in agriculture research and land-grant schools, like Oklahoma State University and Langston University. I am especially pleased this legislation includes my provisions that will enable farmers to graze on CRP lands after a wildfire, help young Americans begin careers in farming and make it easier for Oklahomans to repair fence lines damaged in disasters like wildfires.\r\nI voted against this bill when it passed the Senate because it didn't make meaningful reforms to the food stamp programs. I fought for and secured real reforms to protect American taxpayers and get more wins for Oklahoma. As a result, the bill we passed today addresses some of the waste and fraud in the SNAP program by empowering President Trump to enforce stricter work requirements as well as including important program integrity reforms that will ensure federal taxpayer resources go to those truly in need.\r\nAmerica's farmers and ranchers support all of us, and I am proud this Farm Bill supports them.\r\nThe legislation was supported by key stakeholders in Oklahoma:\r\nOCA is pleased to see the Farm Bill Conference Report pass the Senate, said Michael Kelsey, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Cattlemen'sAssociation.We appreciate Senator Inhofe's support and leadership, specifically to champion reform of the Emergency Conservation Program that cuts the red tape allowing much needed disaster assistance to farmers and ranchers so they can rebuild quicker after catastrophic events like wildfires. Senator Inhofe also shared key input to modify programs like CRP to be more flexible for grazing. While the Farm Bill is a very large piece of legislation with a lot of different considerations, it is important that farmers and ranchers have certainty so that important decisions regarding crops and livestock can be made. We thank Senator Inhofe for his leadership and the Senate for advancing the Farm Bill Conference Report.\r\nThe Oklahoma Cotton Council would like to thank Sen. Inhofe for his passion and resolve in the fight for the 2018 Farm Bill, said Harvey Schroeder, executive director of the Oklahoma Cotton Council. A new Farm Bill with cotton included in Title I will give our producers the certainty and predictability they need.The final bill includes many of the cotton industry's policy priorities and we are glad to see it pass through the Senate. We are extremely grateful to have Sen. Inhofe's ongoing support of the Oklahoma cotton industry and look forward to working with him in the future.\r\nThe Oklahoma Farm Bureau is grateful for Sen. Inhofe's work on the 2018 Farm Bill, said Rodd Moesel, President of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau. The farm bill is a critical piece of legislation that ensures Oklahoma farmers and ranchers can continue to produce food and fiber for the nation with confidence. When it comes to Sen. Inhofe, there is no better warrior fighting for your issues, and we are blessed to have him advocating for our priorities in Congress.\r\nOklahoma State University is incredibly appreciative of Sen. Inhofe's contribution to the 2018 Farm Bill, strengthening land grant universities like our own, said Thomas Coon, Vice President, Dean and Director of the Oklahoma State University Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Passing this bill through the Senate means results for producers and greater certainty about risk management tools in uncertain times. With renewed support for extension and research, we are optimistic towards the future of our great university and the state of Oklahoma.\r\nSen. Inhofe's provisions that were incorporated into the Conference report included: \r\n \r\nWildfire Regulatory Relief Act  legislation that will make it possible for cattle to graze on CRP lands after a wildfire.\r\nFarmers of Tomorrow Act  legislation that will strengthen the next generation of farmers and ranchers by reducing the burden of student loan debt and making capital easier to obtain so new farmers can buy land, equipment or livestock.\r\nThe Emergency Conservation Program Payments Legislation  would give the USDA the authority to offer landowners the option to be paid upfront a portion of the fair market value of property damaged in natural disasters such as wildfires.\r\nSmall Watershed Rehabilitation Program - Authorizes $50 million annually to help rehabilitate aging flood control dams nationwide, including the over 2,107 flood control dams protecting farms and ranches across Oklahoma.\r\nDirects the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a livestock dealer statutory trust. The outcome of this study would support Senator Inhofe's SALE Act, which directs USDA to create a livestock dealer statutory trust.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/remembering-george-h-w-bush", "Remembering George H. W. Bush", "2018-12-07", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "George H. W. Bush led an extraordinary life defined by personal decency and public service. Perhaps the greatest member of America's Greatest Generation, he began his service as a Navy combat pilot in the South Pacific during World War II. Later as our 41st president, he led our country to final victory in the Cold War, won the Gulf War and departed office leaving America as the world's only unchallenged superpower. Over a long life, Bush served the nation in many wayssoldier, congressman, diplomat, CIA director, vice president, president and presidential envoy. No one in modern American history can match the range, depth, duration or quality of the public service that Bush rendered to our country.\nWhile I would never claim to be a Bush intimate, our paths crossed many times over the course of my own political career. I met with him when I served as both Executive Director and Chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party. In 1988, I cast Oklahoma's delegate votes at the Republican National Convention for then-Vice President George H. W. Bush. He returned the favor by personally endorsing me in my state Senate race that same year, sending in future Vice President Dan Quayle to campaign on my behalf. It mattered. Bush won my district by several thousand votes. I won by 311.\nDuring the last two years of 41's presidency, I served as Executive Director of the National Republican Congressional Committee. And when his son, George W. Bush, ran for president, I served as Chief of Staff for the Republican National Committee. Neither Bush ever forgot those who helped and worked with them. So I was not surprised when George W. Bush endorsed me in my hard-fought first congressional race. At the height of his popularity, he filmed a television commercial with me and dispatched Vice President Dick Cheney to campaign on my behalf. Next to my own mother, I owe the Bush family more than anyone in my political life.\nGeorge H. W. Bush was the most grounded and least egotistical politician I ever met. His personal character and commitment to his family were both obvious and legendary. When Bush engaged you in conversation, he always made your thoughts and concerns the center of the discussion. No one ever doubted that he was a true gentleman in every sense of the word.\nBush's decency and wisdom were often overlooked because he refused to boast about himself and his many accomplishments. He personified the values of the generation that won World War II and made America an economic powerhouse and a beacon of freedom that was the envy and hope of the world.\nPolitics is an unforgiving business, and George H. W. Bush lost a hard-fought re-election campaign to Bill Clinton in 1992. But he never became bitter. Indeed, in time he and President Clinton became firm friends. Over the course of a long life, Bush never failed a friend, and he never missed an opportunity to befriend an opponent.\nAs Americans have reflected on the presidency of George H. W. Bush, their opinion of the man and his administration have changed for the better. Americans now admire and appreciate Bush's decency as a person and his accomplishments as a president. In a recent national survey conducted by Rasmussen Reports, 77 percent of the public expressed a positive opinion of the late presidentcompared to only 17 percent who held an unfavorable view.\nIn his well-received eulogy of President Bush, historian and presidential biographer Jon Meacham called him America's last great soldier-statesman. And, Meacham added that while Bush was an imperfect man, he left us a more perfect union. All that is certainly true. But to me, George H. W. Bush was quite simply the finest man I ever met.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-december-2018", "Books I'm Reading: December 2018", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "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 Churchill: Walking with Destinyby Andrew Roberts", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-outlines-sasc-defense-priorities-at-the-national-defense-university", "ICYMI: Inhofe Outlines SASC Defense Priorities at the National Defense University", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: Inhofe Outlines SASC Defense Priorities at the National Defense University\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 6, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\nClick here to view.\r\nU.S. Sen.Jim Inhofe(R-Okla.) addressed students at the National Defense University this morning about his priorities as chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the importance of fully resourcing our national defense. This marked Inhofe's first public speech as chairman.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-announces-build-grants-in-oklahoma", "Inhofe Announces BUILD Grants in Oklahoma", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Announces BUILD Grants in Oklahoma\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 6, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) announced that several Oklahoma communities received BUILD Grants from the Department of Transportation totaling $26.5 million today. Inhofe advocated for each of the grants through letters to Secretary Chao.\r\nThe grants included $14.3 million for Oklahoma City's Bus Rapid Transit system that will strengthen rural access and improve economic vitality; $5.7 million to protect, sustain and enhance the rail system at the Port of Muskogee to improve economic opportunity at the port and $6.5 million for safety improvements and transportation infrastructure in Tulsa.\r\nSenator Inhofe praised the grants, saying: Federal investment in Oklahoma infrastructure continues to pay dividends for citizens across the state. These grants to improve bus transit lines in Oklahoma City and Tulsa will foster economic growth, support accessibility and provide critical safety advancements for the community. Furthermore, upgrades to the rail system at the Port of Muskogee will cement its future as a regional hub for jobs and industry. Congratulations to Tulsa, Oklahoma City and the Port of Muskogee for being awarded these key grants.\r\n\r\nThe grants were also praised by community stakeholders:\r\nThis summer, Tulsa will be one of the first 12 cities in the United States to operate bus rapid transit lines providing more accessibility to our residents, Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum said. I would like to thank Senator Inhofe for his help in securing this grant for our city that will ensure additional safety and connectivity components on two of our busiest corridors in Tulsa  Peoria Avenue and Route 66.\r\nComing on the heels of our streetcar and the addition of Sunday bus service, this BRT grant solidifies 2018 as the best year for OKC transit in modern memory, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt said. This is a major grant and a major achievement for Oklahoma City. On behalf of the people of Oklahoma City, thank you to our federal delegation, especially Senator Inhofe, and thank you to the US Department of Transportation. We look forward to turning this dream into reality.\r\nThis is great news for Muskogee and the Port. Modern rail access for manifest and unit train service will ensure the continued growth and success of the Port of Muskogee for years to come, Scott Robinson, Port Director, Port of Muskogee said. This Grant will also allow the Port of Muskogee to retain its manufacturing and logistics base, support local industry expansion and attract new industry, all of which brings private investment and quality jobs to Muskogee, the State and the Nation.\r\nRobinson continued: Transportation serves an important role in rural America and that remains so in northeast Oklahoma. This grant will allow for rail capacity and efficiency to be secured at the Port for the long-term future; multimodal cost advantages for rail to barge transportation will continue; and the Port will be capable of securing industrial prospects, thus enhancing the global reach for a rural area and the U.S. We appreciate the support of Senator Inhofe for this important project.\r\nThe BUILD grant LINK Tulsa: Leveraging Intelligent Networks and Key-Corridors will enhance safety for all users, help traffic flow and improve the transit ridership experience along two major arterial street corridors in Tulsa, Rich Brierre, Executive Director, Indian Nations Council of Governments said. Installing Fiber/Broadband connectivity along these two important corridors will modernize the antiquated traffic signals to reduce delay and enable traffic engineers to manage these priority corridors for improved safety. The announcement today of the BUILD grant reinforces the continuing need, long championed by Senator Inhofe, to maintain, modernize and upgrade transportation infrastructure which is the backbone of our economy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-honors-the-life-and-legacy-of-president-george-hw-bush", "Senator Lankford Honors the Life and Legacy of President George HW Bush", "2018-12-06", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "12.06.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Honors the Life and Legacy of President George HW Bush \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCLICK HERE for the video of the entire floor speech.\r\nWASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today spoke on the Senate floor to honor the life and legacy of the late President George HW Bush. Lankford attended President Bush's funeral earlier this week at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC.\r\nTranscript\r\nThe entire nation paused just for a little while this week to remember the 41st President of the United States. To be able to honor his legacy and his life. It's important that we also pause here in the Senate chamber, and quite frankly, I bring that same sense of respect from my State of Oklahoma.\r\nHe's widely known, President Bush was, of being our President. Quite frankly, one of the legacies I think he will leave the longest tale on is his commitment to faith, his family, and his compassion for people ran throughout his lifetime.\r\nThe conversation during the funeral yesterday here in Washington DCand it's happening right now in Houstoncentered significantly around his relationship with his beautiful wife, Barbara. Seventy-three years of marriage is quite a legacy, and it is rare in America. It was a gift to America to be able to see that kind of example set in front of us. It's that kind of commitment to their family and to each other.\r\nThey met each other at a dance in Greenwich, Connecticut, in 1941 when he was a 17-year-old high school senior and she was 16. And they went out to dance together with Glenn Miller songs playing. Tell me that's not a throwback to a different time and a different age. They were engaged in 1943in the heart of the war where he shortly and during that same time period was engaged in working with the United States protecting our country during World War II. He served as one of the youngest fighter pilots, the youngest during that time period.\r\nSo his letters have survived and much has been said about what a prolific personal writer President Bush was in his own life. The letters have survived that he wrote to Barbara during that 1943 time period, including a letter that he wrote to her on December 12, 1943, saying, My darling Barb,'  this is when they were still engaged. He said, You made my life full of everything I could ever dream of. My complete happiness should be a token of my love for you.' Who writes like that? Other than a man who is just a great personal example to the nation. They were married January 6, 1945, had six children. They were the longest-married presidential couple, married 73 years.\r\nIn 1994, Barbara Bush described her husband in her memoirs as the two luckiest people in the world when all the dust is settled and all the crowds are gone, the things that matter are faith, family, and friends, and we've been inordinately blessed, and we know that.'\r\nIn 1994, that same year, he is still writing her decades later. He wrote her on their anniversary in 1994 with this note: Will you marry me?' Then he wrote, Oops, I forgot you did that 49 years ago today. I was very happy on that day in 1945, and I'm even happier today. You've given me the joy that few men know. I've climbed perhaps the highest mountain in the world, but even that cannot hold a candle to being Barbara's husband.'\r\nThe love story didn't come without some challenges, though. Barbara was open about her struggle with depression in the 1970s. She described times saying this: Night after night, George held me while I was weeping in his arms, and I tried to explain my feelings.' She said, I wonder why he didn't leave me.' But he didn't.\r\nIn 1953, their daughter, Robin, died of leukemia before her fourth birthday. The family struggled significantly with that. In fact, even President Bush 43 referenced it yesterday in the funeral here in Washington, DC. But George Bush wrote about it during that time period as well. He wrote about the loss their daughter, Robin, who died at three years old as he wrote to Barbara, said, There's about our house a need. We need some soft blonde hair to offset the crew cuts. We need a doll house to stand firm against our forts and rackets and thousand baseball cards. We need someone who's afraid of frogs. We need a little one who can kiss without leaving an egg or jam or gum. We need a girl. We had one once. She'd fight and cry and play and make her way just like the rest, but there was about her a certain softness. She was patient. Her hugs were just a little less wiggly, but she is still with us. We need her, and yet we have her. We can't touch her, and yet we can feel her. We hope she'll stay in our house for a long, long time.'\r\n1953. Even in times of personal struggle, their love for each other and tenacious compassion and passion for their family carried them through it.\r\nGeorge Bush was at his wife's side when she died earlier this year, April the 12th, at age 92.\r\nGeorge Bush's 18th birthday, he enlisted in the armed forces. As I mentioned before, he was the youngest pilot in the Navy when he received his wings, flew 58 combat missions during World War II. He served two terms as a Representative for Congress from Texas, and ran unsuccessfully for the Senate. Though his dad's desk when he was in the Senate is right therewhen he was a United States Senator.\r\nPresident Bush served as the Chief Diplomatic Envoy in China, even before the United States had formally opened the official Beijing embassy. He became the 11th Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, at that time called the DCI from 1976 to 1977. He's the only president to have previously held that position.\r\nInterestingly enough, many people don't know that the CIA Headquarters in Langley are actually named for President Bush and have been that way for a long time.\r\nIt was an interesting season when he was the leader of the CIA in the 1970s. There was a lot of mistrust between the United States citizens and Central Intelligence. President Bush did something at that time exceptional as the Director of Central Intelligence. He actually provided transparency, a radical idea where he would come to the Hill and he would invite members of the House and the Senate over to his house and be able to have informal dinners with him to be able to talk about what they're doing. He came to the Hill 51 times to be able to testify before the House and the Senate, a record that's still unpassed by any director of national intelligence. It's a remarkable record of transparency and of leadership.\r\nIn 1980, he campaigned for the presidency but lost. But then was tapped by the person he lost to in the primary, a gentleman named Ronald Reagan, to be his Vice President. Interestingly enough at 50 years old, who I am today, the first president that I really remember watching was President Reagan and Vice President Bush, to be able to see how they handled things. It was a remarkable set of leadership during that time period.\r\nIn 1988, he won the Republican nomination for president and then became president, being the first president that I ever had the opportunity to be able to vote for at that time when I was 20 years old. So for my first time to ever vote for president, I had the privilege to be able to vote for President Bush and then the honor to be able to sit in the cathedral yesterday and to be able to recognize the life.\r\nHe was a remarkable president for being a one-term president. Pushing back the Sandinistas that were ravaging through Nicaragua, transitioning Europe out of the Cold War, finishing the Cold War without a shot being fired, unifying Germany when most of Europe as the Soviet Union fell and the Berlin Wall fell after Reagan's famous 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.' The wall didn't actually come down at that moment. It came down during the Bush Administration as they led Germany out of that and then into unification, even though most of Europe did not want a unified Germany, remembering still what a unified Germany did during World War II. He led through that.\r\nHe led as president for Americans to start thinking about other Americans in a new way, to stop saying so much that the government should provide every issue, though the government has a role, but he pushed back on something he called 'The thousand points of light' and challenged Americans to take care of their neighbors and their neighborhoods and for us to not look towards Washington, D.C. to solve each problem, but for non-profits and communities and churches and the engagement neighbor to neighbor to able to turn around a nation. It's a remarkable calling for us to be able to be called to each other.\r\nIn 1992, he lost his bid for re-election, but it's interesting in that. In his speech just after he lost the election, he made this statement. He said, 'I hope history will record the Bush Administration has served America well. I'm proud of my cabinet and my staff. America has led the world through an age of global transition, and we have made the world safer for our kids, and I believe the real fruits of our global victory are yet to be tasted.' If he was seated here today, I could tell him we're still tasting the fruits of that freedom.\r\nHe made this statement as well at that same time. 'Ours is a nation that has shed the blood of war and cried the tears of depression. We have stretched the limits of human imagination and seen the technology miraculous become almost mundane. Always, always, our advantage has been our spirit, a constant confidence, a sense that in America the only things not yet accomplished are the things that have not yet been tried.' And then he said this: 'President-Elect Clinton needs all Americans to unite behind him so he can move our nation forward, but more than that, he will need to draw upon this unique American spirit.'\r\nMultiple individuals recently have referenced the letter that President Bush left for President Clinton on the desk in the Oval Office, so when the transition occurred, President Clinton would walk into his new office in 1993 and see this letter that ended with this statement. Dated January 20, 1993. It's a long note, but it ended with his handwritten statements. 'You will be our president when you read this note.' And he underlined the word 'our.' 'I wish you well. I wish your family well. Your success is now our country's success, and I'm rooting hard for you.'\r\nPretty remarkable statement from someone who'd just been beaten in a campaign, to then turn as an American leader and to say, 'America continues, and I'm rooting for your success.'\r\nHe left office and continued to serve, continued to press this 'thousand points of light,' continued to encourage people to be able to serve their neighbors and serve each other, and he continued to love his beautiful Barbara.\r\nHe celebrated watching his kids get elected into office, including President of the United States. But he continued to be who he was: a gentle, compassionate, faith-filled person. He wanted the best for our nation.\r\nHe showed us how to lose gracefully and not make enemies of our adversaries, and he turned political foes into lasting friends.\r\nInterestingly enough, June the 12th of this year, on his 94th birthday, he wrote a note again to some friends. And in that note that he wrote earlier this year, he wrote, 'I'm truly touched and overwhelmed by all the messages I've received today,' on his birthday. 'And although I've seen them all, I can no longer answer them all. My 94-year-old hands would rebel. Just know, I appreciated hearing from you. As many of you know, for years, I have said the three most important things in life are faith, family, and friends. My faith has never been stronger. I'm blessed with the world's most loving family, and thanks to you, I feel the love of the best friends a man ever had. My heart is full on this first day of my 95th year.'\r\nAs I walked out of the funeral yesterday, I turned to the person next to me, and I said, 'I think that's the first political funeral or event I've been before to honor a life where Jesus got equal time.' In a lot of funerals, it's all about 'them.' President Bush shaped a funeral where it was as much about his relationship with God, as it was about his history and legacy. It is a remarkable reminder to a man who prioritized, as he said, 'his faith, family, and friends,' and set an example for the nation.\r\nHe was around Oklahoma a lot as well. He popped in and out. He spoke at Oklahoma State University graduation while he was president. In fact, he made a comment about stopping at Eskimo Joe's, a local restaurant there, and endorsed the cheese fries in front of thousands of people and across the nation.\r\nHe stopped in at a different time at Cattlemen's restaurant in Oklahoma City, popped in and ate a great steak. If you're ever in Oklahoma City, stop in at Cattlemen's. Folks at Cattlemen's still talk about that time when President Bush showed up. Met everybody in the restaurant, he even went back into the kitchen and met all the cooks. Folks still remember it well.\r\nHe stopped in Enid with Don Nickles. Don Nickles tells a storymy predecessor Senatorthat he went out to Maine at one point when he was the Whip here in the Senate to go have a briefing with President Bush in a small group at his place in Maine, and while he was there, the President offered to take him on a quick boat ride to be able to get over, and President Bush was notorious for the speed boat that he was in and would ram the throttle and go full speed because his boat was faster than the Secret Service boat that was following him, and he loved to be able to outrun them and to take off.\r\nEven after his retirement as president, a story from one of our staff members who writes about a friend who was a student at Texas A&M University where the President had his library there. And he tells the story of a twenty-year-old student named, Michael, who was serving as a personal-aide to the Bush Foundation and how one day in the morning, President Bush walks up to this 20-year-old who is working there and just says, 'Are you hungry?' To which he replied back, 'I'm always hungry.' President Bush took him to lunch that day. This was in 2004. The two of them sat, the president peppered him with questions about his family and about his background, about his siblings. And Michael got to call his family later that day and say, 'I just had lunch with the President.'\r\nWhat was interesting is Michael's statement which was, 'President Bush made me feel like I was the president.'\r\nIt could be said of all of us, no matter what our titles, no matter what our position, no matter what our place is, that at the end of our life, we would still be talking about our faith, our family, and our friends, and every person around us, we expect compassion and gratitude to them and set a good example for them. It may be in our political discourse, it may be in our homes or our communities. With that, Mr. President, I yield the floor.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-rounds-kennedy-cruz-introduce-bill-to-fully-fund-border-wall", "Inhofe, Rounds, Kennedy, Cruz Introduce Bill to Fully Fund Border Wall", "2018-12-05", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe, Rounds, Kennedy, Cruz Introduce Bill to Fully Fund Border Wall\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 5, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Kennedy (R-La.) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced the WALL Act, legislation that would fully fund the border wall along the southern border. Their legislation is also the first bill that will fund the wall by identifying specific funding sources.\r\nPresident Trump has called for a border wall and I agree, Inhofe said. As a former builder and developer in south Texas, I know border security is national security and we need to do more to deter the growing numbers of unauthorized immigrants coming across our borders. That's why I've outlined specific ways to fund the border wall by assessing penalties on illegal immigration and closing loopholes that allow unauthorized immigrants to receive federal benefits. We're going to build the wall through reforms that that protect the integrity of hardworking American citizens' tax dollars. It's that simple.\r\nThe primary responsibility of the federal government is the defense of our nation, which includes strong border security, Sen. Rounds said. The WALL Act will provide full funding for construction of a physical barrier along our southern border to protect against illegal immigration and stop those who wish to do us harm, such as terrorists, gang members and drug dealers, from entering the United States from the south. It pays for the wall by closing existing loopholes that allow illegal immigrants to receive federal benefits and increasing fines for illegal border crossings and visa overstays. By funding the wall through increased fines, we prevent any risk of dipping into Department of Defense (DoD) funding, which is already stretched thin. I thank Chairman Inhofe for his leadership on this effort and I look forward to advancing this proposal in the Senate.\r\nWe can certainly afford the construction, said Sen. Kennedy. Sen. Inhofe and I are teaming up on legislation that will save taxpayers $33 billion simply by ensuring that the taxpayers' generosity isn't wasted. If you want to receive food stamps and other benefits, then you should prove your citizenship. If you cross the border illegally or overstay your visit to this country, then you should pay a stiff penalty.\r\nI have long called for building a wall as a necessary step in defending our border and stopping the flow of illegal immigration into our country, said Sen. Cruz. The overwhelming majority of Texans and Americans want to see the border secured. The WALL Act would fully fund the border wall by closing existing loopholes that provide illegal immigrants with federal benefits and tax credits, without affecting the benefits and tax credits used by Americans.\r\n\r\nThis legislation will fully fund the President's $25 billion border wall while providing specific ways to pay for it: \r\nRequire a work-authorized Social Security Number (SSN) to claim refundable tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit: \r\n \r\nCurrently only the child needs a SSN, not the parent benefiting from the refundable child tax credit. The WALL Act would require the parent to have a valid work-eligible social security number.\r\nBefore 2003, the Social Security Agency did not distinguish between work-eligible and non-work eligible SSNs. Therefore, there are individuals benefiting from the EITC they are not authorized to receive because they are non-work eligible.\r\n \r\nRequire welfare applicants (food stamps, TANF, HUD, etc) to verify citizenship: \r\n \r\nCurrently someone only needs to declare citizenship and provide a SSN to receive some of these benefits.\r\nThe WALL Act enhances citizenship verification prior to granting benefits using E-verify and require a work-authorized SSN for eligibility.\r\n \r\nIncreasing the minimum fines on illegal border crossers and establishes minimum penalty for visa overstays.\r\nThis legislation is designed to complement the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act that Sen. Inhofe introduced in August, legislation that will address immigration loopholes to improve the integrity of the asylum process. The United States experienced a 234 percent increase in asylum applications from 2014 to 2016, generating a backlog in our immigration courts. That number is expected to increase.\r\nThe Asylum Abuse Reduction Act would: \r\nRequire migrants declare asylum at our embassies/consulates in Mexico or Canada before entering the United States:\r\n \r\nCurrently, migrants who cross the border illegally and declare asylum are released pending credible fear screenings and other legal procedures, but rarely show up for proceedings  never completing the asylum process.\r\nThe dramatic increase in asylum claims, as urged by smugglers, creates a huge strain on our resources, a backlog in the immigration process and most migrants don't show up for their court date.\r\nThe Asylum Abuse Reduction Act requires individuals seeking asylum to have their preliminary credible fear screening at an embassy or consulate outside the United States prior to being considered for admittance for asylum purposes.\r\n \r\nCreate a criminal bench warrant for immigrants that have failed to appear for immigration court:\r\n \r\nCurrently, when illegal immigrants fail to show up for court, their information is not entered into police databases.\r\nWith the WALL Act, if migrants don't appear for court, they will be given a bench warrant so if they are stopped for an unrelated offense, like speeding, there will be a warrant for them in the system for violating immigration law.\r\n \r\nCreate a pilot program for alternatives to detention: \r\n \r\nThe Flores decision says that we can't detain illegal immigrants with children or families for more than 20 days. Currently, that usually means they are released pending trial  and then fail to appear.\r\nThe WALL Act establishes a pilot program that would allow families tobe released to a qualified organization, contracted with the federal government, to ensure migrants comply with immigration proceedings.\r\n \r\nRead more about the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-sasc-chairman-inhofe-questions-nominees-at-sasc-hearing", "ICYMI: SASC Chairman Inhofe Questions Nominees at SASC Hearing", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: SASC Chairman Inhofe Questions Nominees at SASC Hearing\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 4, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), questioned nominees this morning at a SASC nomination hearing to consider Lieutenant General Kenneth F. McKenzie, Jr., USMC to be General and Commander of U.S. Central Command and Lieutenant General Richard D. Clarke, USA to be General and Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command.\r\n\r\nClick to watch Sen. Inhofe's remarks.\r\nRemarks:\r\nInhofe: We are going to be confronted with some difficult decisions. I'd like to kind of set the stage for it. In 2010, the budget was 700--and if we use constant dollars, let's say 2018 dollarsin 2010, the budget was at $794 billion and by 2015, using the constant dollars, it was down to $586 billion. Now that's a drop of 200actually 24 percent is the best way to look at that. So that's where we found ourselves and consequently we made a decision for FY18 to go up to $700 billion and FY19 up to $716 billion and the strategy or the agreement, I should say.\r\nBoth of you have read that commission report and you remember in that report they talk about the necessity of increasinga minimum increase of 3 to 5 percent over inflation. Now, that's what everyone agreed on, that's what the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff agreed on. That's what the secretary agreed on.\r\nNow, when the president came out with the original budget, it was $733 billion for FY20. Well if you do the math on this thing, you go from $716 billion to $733, the increase is 2.1 percent which is actually below the amount that everyone has been prescribing and saying is going to be necessary to meet the competition. It's a different competition than we've ever had before, at least in my opinion.\r\nI would like to ask both of you to comment on that, if you consider in light of thatthe $733 billionto be a floor as opposed to a ceiling. What do you think, General?\r\nMcKenzie: Senator, thank you for the question. The $733 billion figure was arrived at by the department carefully looking at the requirements of the National Defense Strategy. It reflects our best projection of a strategy-informed budget. We recognize that there could have been a higher number, as you said, the 3 to 5 percent. But we also recognize the department exists within a larger government and trades there are just a natural part of the process.\r\nAnything below $733 billion would increase risk and that risk would be manifested across the force. We are in the process now, very carefully across the department, examining the details of what the nature of that risk would be, who would it be opposed upon and the nature of it.\r\nInhofe: Good, good. General Clark?\r\nSenator, I associate myself with General McKenzie's remarks and would state that the sustained, predictable key is the adequate funding that is required by the department and once looked upon and if confirmed for SOCOM, we have to look at what that means for SOCOM's budget and where that risk would be assumed. Whether it's in readiness, whether or not it is in technologies required or whether it is in what we are doing for it.\r\nInhofe: And I appreciate that. In my opening statement, we talked about our peer competitors Russia and China and it's difficult for those of us on this side of the table when we are talking to groups outside of government to explain to them that in some cases China and Russia have some things that we don't have. I have a long list of things, including statements on artillery. We are outgunned, out ranged and so we have problems now, I don't think we had before. From SOCOM's perspective, what's the best way, you think, to confront these problems that we have not experienced before?\r\nClarke: Senator, you talked about the things we don't have. What I would qualify is the things we do have that Russia and China don't have. We do have some asymmetric advantages that we have looked at. You're familiar with our Joint Military Net Assessment. The other thing we have, Senator that those two countries don't have, are allies and partners. In our position around the world, particularly with SOCOM, with our special operations do provide that advantage.\r\nInhofe: That's good. And General McKenziethere's been a lot of talk about the S400 and the threat to the United States and coalition forces in Syria. What's your thought about that? Evaluating that and how much of a threat that does pose.\r\nMcKenzie: Senator, the S400 if, once activated, will increase the threat to our coalition partners flying over Syria. There will be a manifest difference in the capabilities of the system though depending on whether it's manned by the Syrians or the Russians and we're still working to figure out how that's actually going to be executed.\r\nClick to watch Sen. Inhofe's introduction.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-inf-announcement", "Inhofe Statement on INF Announcement", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Statement on INF Announcement\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 4, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, praised the administration's action today on the INF treaty:\r\nFor too long, Vladimir Putin has openly flaunted the INF treaty and President Trump is right to put him on notice. The United States will no longer tolerate Russian deception at the expense of national security and the security of our allies. While we've lived up to our commitments under the treaty, Russia has violated it for years without repercussionsputting our troops, allies and infrastructure at greater risk.\r\nSecretary Pompeo has put Putin on the clock60 days to change course and comply with the treaty, or else the United States will withdraw. A treaty with only one side complying is unsustainable. Can Putin be trusted to uphold Russia's international commitments? I won't hold my breath.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-signs-coast-guard-reauthorization-includes-inhofe-provisions", "President Signs Coast Guard Reauthorization, Includes Inhofe Provisions", "2018-12-04", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "President Signs Coast Guard Reauthorization, Includes Inhofe Provisions\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 4, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, today praised the president for signing S. 140, which reauthorizes the Coast Guard for fiscal years 2018 and 2019. Inhofe authored Section 819 of S. 140, which directs the U.S. Coast Guard to create a plan to replace aging inland waterways and river tender vessels, which are responsible for maintaining the navigation aids and buoys that mark water channels. \r\nAlso included in the U.S. Coast Guard reauthorization bill was legislation that Inhofe originally cosponsored, S. 168, Commercial Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (CVIDA) of 2017, which directs the establishment of a uniform national standard for ballast water and other vessel discharges. \r\nI am incredibly pleased the president signed the Coast Guard reauthorization and Vessel Incidental Discharge Act today. This bill includes a provision I authored that will support economic activity at our inland ports, like the Port of Catoosa or the Port of Muskogee, by directing the Coast Guard to develop a plan for the acquisition of new inland waterway vessels, which will improve navigation operations and efficiencies along the MKARNs. With the president's signature, this legislation will empower the Coast Guard to combat trafficking and drug smuggling along our nation's coast. Furthermore, this legislation provides for a predictable national standard for businesses operating on our nation's maritime highwayslike the MKARNSreducing duplicative federal regulations that have held back economic growth. \r\nWhen the legislation passed through the Committee, Inhofe's provision received praise by the American Waterways Operators, the Tulsa Port of Catoosa and Kirby Cooperation, which is one of the nation's largest maritime transportation companies.\r\nA modernized, robust fleet of Coast Guard inland waterway and river tenders is vital to the safety and efficiency of navigation in maritime commerce, a fundamental pillar of our national economy, said Craig F. Montesano, vice president of legislative affairs for the American Waterways Operators. AWO commends Sen. Jim Inhofe for his recognition of the fleet's importance in this regard, and congratulates him on his successful efforts to include its revitalization in this year's Coast Guard Authorization Act.\r\nThe Port of Catoosa is very appreciative of the legislation passed by the Senate Commerce Committee today reauthorizing the U.S. Coast Guard,said David Yarbrough, port director of Tulsa Port of Catoosa. It is particularly pleasing to see the inclusion of a provision, authored by Sen. Inhofe, directing the U.S. Coast Guard to begin plans to replace their aging fleet of inland waterway and river tenders. Many people are unaware of the critically important work that the U.S. Coast Guard performs on the nation's inland rivers, ensuring safe navigation for commercial and recreational traffic. The reliability of these river tenders is crucial to the navigation industry and the Nation's transportation network.\r\n\"We have many electronic tools today that help us navigate. But in the inland river system, where currents and shoals can change on a daily basis, buoys, and the inland tenders that maintain them, remain a critical component of navigation safety,\" said Jim Guidry, executive vice president for vessel operations of Kirby Corporation. \"We are excited to see progress toward recapitalizing the inland buoy tender fleet. It is long overdue. Kirby Corporation strongly supports the Commercial Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (CVIDA). We are prepared to invest in ballast water treatment systems that can meet the highest achievable standards. However, once we make that investment, we need to know that system will be accepted in every American port of call. Without CVIDA, we could be subjected to multiple inconsistent standards on a single trip as we pass from state to state.\"\r\nBackground\r\n \r\nOn November 15, 2018, the Senate passed the Coast Guard reauthorization and Vessel Incidental Discharge Act.\r\nOn May 18, 2017, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee passed the Coast Guard reauthorization and Vessel Incidental Discharge Act.\r\nInhofe discussed this issue with Adm. Paul Zukunft at the March 22 Commerce Committee hearing entitled State of the Coast Guard: Ensuring Military, National Security, and Enforcement Capability and Readiness. Zukunft emphasized the importance of updating inland waterway vessels.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/finishing-our-work", "Finishing Our Work", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "While much has been accomplished this year, there are still several items left to complete. As the current Congress concludes, lawmakers must come together to finish the remaining work.\nOne of the most fundamental duties of Congress is to fund the federal government, keeping it open and operational. And before the recent start of the fiscal year, I am proud that more than 75 percent of annual funding was responsibly fulfilled by regular order. However, even though much of the federal government was fully funded on time, a significant portion of the government is currently operating under a short-term continuing resolution that will soon expire. To avoid a partial government shutdown, it is critical that lawmakers find bicameral agreement in the negotiations on the remaining appropriations bills for fiscal year 2019.\nEvery five years, Congress revisits the terms of a comprehensive piece of legislation that is vital to the success of the nation's agricultural sector. While the official title of the bill has changed over the years, it is generally known as the Farm Bill because of its direct impact on the nation's farmers and ranchers. To maintain healthy crops and produce, farmers and ranchers greatly rely on the crop insurance, conservation and other programs authorized in the Farm Bill. Considering that there are more than 13,000 farms and ranches in the Fourth District of Oklahoma alone, there is no question that the Farm Bill matters to the economy and vitality of rural America.\nDuring the summer, I was pleased that the House and Senate successfully passed versions of the 2018 Farm Bill and voted to form a joint conference committee, where negotiations have been ongoing since September. Though I do not serve on this panel, I am hopeful that a reconciled version of the legislation can soon be reported out, brought to the floor of both chambers and sent to the president's desk. \nAside from funding the government and finalizing the Farm Bill, there are other items that need to be renewed. This includes the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), which authorizes federal programs that protect victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Without question, I support reauthorization of these programs which help build safer communities, prevent acts of domestic violence and ensure criminals are brought to justice.\nAlso expiring soon is the National Flood Insurance Program, which protects communities susceptible to flooding and aids in recovery efforts related to instances of this costly natural disaster. While the House has already advanced legislation to renew and reform the program, it now awaits further action in Senate.\nLawmakers must indeed race to finish work on several pressing legislative items before the end of the year, but I remain committed to doing just that.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-releases-jct-score-on-wall-bill", "Inhofe Releases JCT Score on Wall Bill", "2018-12-03", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Releases JCT Score on Wall Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 3, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) released the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) analysis of the WALL Bill, which Sen. Inhofe will introduce this week. The analysis, available here, estimates that the tax components of his legislation will save over $33 billion over ten yearsmore than enough to fully fund the wall along the southern border.\r\nThe nonpartisan, independent analysis by the Joint Committee on Taxation shows that my legislation is not only a viable roadmap for fully funding President Trump's border wall, but it is fiscally responsible. We can't wait any longer to prioritize border security and address the crisis of illegal immigration. I urge all of my colleagues in the Senate to join me in fully funding the wall by closing loopholes that allow illegal immigrants to receive federal benefits. \r\n\r\nThe WALL Act will:\r\nRequire a work-authorized Social Security Number (SSN) to claim refundable tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit:\r\n \r\nCurrently only the child needs a SSN,not the parent benefiting from the refundable child tax credit.My bill would require theparentto have a valid work-eligible social security number.\r\nBefore 2003, the Social Security Administration did not distinguish between work-eligible and non-work eligible SSNs. Therefore, there are individuals with SSNs issued prior to 2003 benefiting from the EITC they are not authorized to receive because they are non-work eligible.\r\n \r\nRequire welfare applicants (food stamps, TANF, HUD, etc) to verify citizenship:\r\n \r\nCurrently someone only needs to declare citizenship and provide a SSN to receive some of these benefits.\r\nInhofe's bill enhances citizenship verification prior to granting benefits using E-verify and require a work-authorized SSN for eligibility.\r\n \r\nIncreasing the minimum fines on illegal border crossers and establishes minimum penalty for visa overstays.\r\nThis legislation is designed to complement theAsylum Abuse Reduction Actthat Sen. Inhofe introduced in August, legislation that will address immigration loopholes to improve the integrity of the asylum process. The United States experienced a 234 percent increase in asylum applications from 2014 to 2016, generating a backlog in our immigration courts. That number is expected to increase.\r\nRead more about the WALL Act here.\r\nInhofe also spoke on the Senate floor about the need for stronger border security, including a wall and authored a Fox News opinion piece about his legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-mourns-loss-former-president-george-h-w-bush", "Cole Mourns Loss of Former President George H. W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) mourned the loss of former President George H. W. Bush, the 41st president of the United States. \nI am deeply saddened by the passing of former President George H. W. Bush. He was an inspirational American figure and principled leader, who devoted his life to public service and benefiting the greater good. He was not defined by his politics but always by compassion for others and love of our great nation.\nAs a Republican State Chairman, the NRCC's Executive Director and a GOP political consultant, I interacted with George H. W. Bush on many occasions during the 1980s and 90s. I found him to be invariably thoughtful, substantive, modest and polite. President Bush always cared about others more than himself. He was the most grounded and least egotistical politician I ever met. His sheer decency and profound wisdom were often overlooked because he refused to boast about his many personal and political accomplishments. President Bush personified the virtues of the so called greatest generation' that won the Second World War and turned America into an economic powerhouse and a beacon of freedom that was the envy and hope of the world.\nAlong with Ronald Reagan, George H. W. Bush led America to victory in the Cold War, consigning the old Soviet Union to the ash heap of history. When he departed office, he left the world at peace and America as the globe's only and uncontested superpower. It was an amazing achievement that was unappreciated at the time.\nHis legacy extends far beyond any office or position he held. First and foremost, he was a family man. George H. W. Bush was a devoted husband, beloved father and adored grandfather. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Bush family as they mourn this incredibly difficult loss.\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-mourns-loss-former-president-george-hw-bush", "Lucas Mourns the Loss of Former President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Lucas Mourns the Loss of Former President George H.W. Bush                                           \n              Dec 1, 2018      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    Washington, D.C. Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-3) mournsthe loss of former President George H. W. Bush.Congressman Lucas released the following statement:\nThe first time I met George W. H. Bush he was Vice President of the United State and in the early stages of his successful run for President in 1988. I noted that day, that though he was a man of wealth from a very old stabilized east coast family, he wore a simple Timex watch and doodled patterns with a pencil on a piece of paper as he discussed every possible issue that could matter to a group of Oklahomans. I left that meeting impressed with him as a person and a knowledgeable leader.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=645", "Rep. Russell Statement on Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Steve Russell", "R000604", "russell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Russell Statement on Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush \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 1, 2018\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      Oklahoma City, OK  On Saturday, U.S. Rep. Steve Russell (R-Okla.) issued the following statement on the passing of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush:\r\nGeorge H. W. Bush served our country in a capacity few human beings can ever claim: warrior, lawmaker, ambassador, Intelligence Chief, Vice President and President. His entire life embodied giving of himself. We have not only lost a former president, but a premier example of what service really means.\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://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-passing-of-former-president-george-hw-bush", "Inhofe Statement on Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush", "2018-12-01", "2018", "2018-12", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Statement on Passing of Former President George H.W. Bush\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, December 1, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after former President George H.W. Bush passed away:\r\nGeorge H.W. Bush loved this country and served it tirelessly and with a passion. As a naval aviator, an ambassador, director of the CIA, and as president of these great United States, George Bush put service to his nation and love for his family above all else. Kay and I have known the Bush family for a long timedating back to their time in the Texas oil industry, traveling back and forth to Tulsaand he was always a devoted husband and loving father. We were friends before we were in politics, and I am grateful for his friendship.\r\nKay and I are praying for the entire Bush family as the nation mourns and honors one of America's most loyal sons.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-named-ranking-member-science-committee", "Lucas Named Ranking Member of Science Committee", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-3) was named the Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Congressman Lucas released the following statement:\nI am grateful to the members of the Republican Steering Committee and our conference for entrusting me with the position of Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. As the Democrats retake control of the House, I look forward to leading my Republican colleagues in holding the new majority accountable and promoting a conservative agenda.\nThe Science, Space, and Technology Committee has jurisdiction over programs at NASA, the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Science Foundation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The Committee oversees agency budgets of $42 billion, where the primary focus is on research and development. Rep. Lucas has been serving on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee since 1999 and Vice-Chair of the Committee since 2015.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-releases-podcast-on-budget-reform", "Senator Lankford Releases Podcast on Budget Reform", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.30.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Releases Podcast on Budget Reform \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t The fifth episode breaks down the need for budget reform\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t CLICK HERE to listen to the podcast\r\nOKLAHOMA CITY, OK  The Office of Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released the fifth episode of Lankford's podcast, The Breakdown with James Lankford. The episode focuses on the current budget and spending process and the ways it has failed to work properly since the 1970s. Lankford discusses the need for significant budget reform, debt and deficit reduction, discretionary and mandatory spending changes, the work of the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform, and steps Congress can take to fix our broken budget process. \r\nLast week, Lankford spoke on the Senate floor to urge his colleagues to make significant reforms to the budget and appropriation process. \r\nLankford serves on the Senate Committee on Appropriations, which has jurisdiction over all discretionary spending in the Senate. Lankfordrecently served on theJoint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform, a bi-partisan, bi-cameral panel tasked with proposing a set of solutions to significantly overhaul the budget and appropriations process for the better. On November 29, the select committee's product did not receive the votes required to move forward.Lankford didnot support the bill in committeebecause it lacked significant reforms to the budget process.\r\nLankford has provided a number of solutions to decrease the national deficit and debt, remove cumbersome regulations, and eliminate duplicative programs throughout the federal government with the annual release ofFederal Fumbles: 100 Ways the Government Dropped the Ball.\r\nExcerpt:\r\nOn the national debt and deficit:\r\n(9:16-12:40) Lankford: Where is the deficit coming from?\r\nStaff: That deficit is coming from essentially our overspending. This year, we are going to run a $780 billion deficit. Next year, it's going to top a trillion dollars. CBO, our official Congressional scorekeeper,  says that's going to continue above a trillion sort-of in perpetuity. We are not in a good place.\r\nLankford: We are not in a good place at all. Back in Oklahoma, I have had people catch me and say, The reason we have a deficit right now is because of that crazy tax bill you passed last year.' And I will typically smile at them and I will listen to what they are saying because I want to hear people out and what they are thinking on it, but I usually surprise them when I say, OK  we did the tax cut last year, and the reason we did that was because the economy was running really sluggish, and we believed we had to do something to the economy to help grow jobs. If more people have a job, and more people are making more money, they pay more in taxes. Because they have a job now, they maybe didn't last year, now they have a job, they're paying taxes. It is a risk when you cut taxes like that. The strategic way that we did it, to lower taxes, is a risk if the economy is going to grow. The result of it is interesting though. We did a tax cut last year. Our revenue is higher into the Treasury this year than it was last year. I have folks say all the time, This giant deficit is because of the tax cut.' Zero of it is because of the tax cut, we actually have more revenue coming in this year than last year.\r\nStaff: During that same period that you mentioned from January to October, the Treasury tells us we actually have $14 billion more in revenue this year than we did last year.\r\nLankford: Though there was a tax cut, more people have a job, more people are making more money, there's more investment in the economy, all of those things are actually happening and there's more revenue coming into the Treasury. This is only the first year of that tax change. None of the deficit is because of a tax cut. We have a big deficit for something very different. It is some of the mandatory spending programs that are out there, we have more people retiring, and so more people are retiring, obviously there is going to be more social security benefits, there's going to be more Medicare, those are reasonable things and predictable things to be able to cover. One of our biggest issues is interest. When you have a $22 trillion debt, you have to pay interest on that to somebody. Our interest payments are $400 billion as of next year. $400 billion in one year. This year, it's a little over $300 billion just in interest payments. So, that's chopping up and will be around half of our deficit spending, just in this giant interest payment. If we didn't have this big debt, we wouldn't have this big interest payment, but it's a snowball effect, because the bigger the interest payment becomes, then that means the bigger the deficit becomes, you can't get on top of it, because you can't control and manage it.\r\nStaff: That's right. By the end of the decade, projections show that we're going to be spending close to a trillion dollars, only in interest. That's a scary thought because what that does is crowd other spending out, other priorities we have like defense, medical research, we just don't have enough resources to go around for those priorities because we are spending it on national debt.\r\nLankford: It's a serious issue, to say the least, so we are trying to figure out how to get on top of it.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-perdue-ernst-political-self-interest-prevented-changes-to-the-broken-budget-process", "Senators Lankford, Perdue, Ernst: Political Self-Interest Prevented Changes to The Broken Budget Process", "2018-11-30", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.30.18\n\t\t\t Senators Lankford, Perdue, Ernst: Political Self-Interest Prevented Changes to The Broken Budget Process \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCLICK HERE to watch Senator Lankford's Closing Remarks\r\nOKLAHOMA CITY, OKSenators James Lankford (R-OK), David Perdue (R-GA), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) provided comment on the Joint Select Committee for Budget and Appropriations Reform:\r\nThe Joint Select Committee was our chance to make meaningful changes to Congress' broken budget processinstead, it turned out to be alostopportunity. This is completely irresponsible. Throughout the process we had bipartisan discussions of ideas that could have fixed the way Congress funds the federal governmentand addressed our debt.Most of these ideas were met with little disagreement in conversation but suddenly received major pushback when it was time to put the ideas into action.We offered amendments to end Washington's addiction to continuing resolutions and to hold members of Congress accountable for finishing thebudgetjob on time. This should have beencommon sense, but yet again political self-interest stood in the way of significant results. After eight months of work, there is no excuse for settling for the status quo. We are committed to continuing our effortsnext yearto responsible fix the federal government's funding process.\r\nLankford, Perdue, and Ernst introduced amendments that would have achieved the following priorities:\r\n \r\nMilestones With Consequences:Create a series of milestones for passing a budget and appropriations bills to keep Congress on track to fund the government on time. Coupled with changing the fiscal year, these milestones would provide more certainty for our military and other federal agencies.(Offered by Perdue)\r\nNo Budget, No Recess:If the Senate has not approved a budget and spending bills on time, then the Senate would be unable to adjourn for over eight hours; no funding would be available for official travel; and, two quorum calls would be held per day to prevent senators from leaving Washington.(Offered by Ernst and Lankford)\r\nNo Budget, No Travel: If the Senate has not passed a budget and appropriations bills on time, then the Senate is prevented from taking any official travel (Offered by Ernst).\r\nChange The Fiscal Year Ending From September 30 To December 31:Matching the fiscal year with the calendar year gives Congress more time to pass a budget and all of the appropriations bills.(Offered by Perdue)\r\nChange Budget Committee Membership:Changes the membership of the Senate Budget Committee to be six members of the majority, five members of the minority and the chair and ranking members of the Appropriations and Finance committees.(Offered by Lankford and Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO))\r\nEstablish Bipartisan Budget Resolution In Senate:Creates a separate path in the Senate for a bipartisan budget resolution. The resolution would be required to establish fiscal goals for the path of the debt- to-GDP ratio as well as a glide path for health care spending, tax expenditures, discretionary spending, and total revenues.(Offered by Perdue and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI))\r\nMake The Budget A Law:Change the budget from a concurrent resolution to a joint resolution, making it require the signature of the President and carry the force of law.(Offered by Perdue)\r\nRequire 60 Votes:Raise the vote threshold for final passage of a budget resolution in the Senate from 51 votes to 60 votes, which is 3/5 of all Senators. This forces bipartisanship throughout the entire budget process while retaining the privileged nature of the budget resolution and matches the 60-vote requirement of the appropriations process.(Offered by Perdue)\r\nEnd Vote-a-rama:End vote-a-rama by requiring all amendments to be debated on and voted on within 50 hours of consideration. This would expedite the passage of a budget by limiting frivolous messaging amendments.(Offered by Perdue)\r\nEliminate Gimmicks:Eliminate budgeting gimmicks by cracking down on the use of Changes In Mandatory Programs (CHIMPs) in the appropriations process that produce billions in hidden overspending.(Offered by Lankford)\r\nChange Reconciliation Process:Reconciliation is a powerful tool to get around the Senate filibuster. This amendment makes it a required part of the budget rather an optional part.(Offered by Lankford)\r\n \r\nThe Joint Select Committee was established by Congress on February 9, 2018, and is composed of 16 Members of Congress: four Senate Republicansincluding Senators Perdue, Lankford, and Ernstfour Senate Democrats, four House Republicans, and four House Democrats. The members had until the ending of the calendar year to agree on changes to the budget and appropriations process and present them to Congress for a full vote. On November 29, the select committee's product did not receive the votes required to move forward.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-congratulates-appropriations-ranking-member-elect-kay-granger", "Cole Congratulates Appropriations Ranking Member-Elect Kay Granger", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) congratulated Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12) after she was elected by the House Republican Steering Committee to serve as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee in the 116th Congress.  \n\t  \n\tI congratulate my friend and colleague Kay Granger on her election to lead as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, said Cole. Without question, this is a critical time for our country, and Republicans must remain unified in the days ahead. As we continue to serve together, I will do all I can to support Chairman Granger as the new Republican leader of the committee and will work with her to ensure Republicans remain influential in divided government.\nCole has served on the House Appropriations Committee since 2009, and he is currently chairman of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies. He also sits on the Defense and Interior subcommittees.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-discusses-lack-of-legislative-action-on-border-security-and-immigration-issues-at-our-southern-border", "Senator Lankford Discusses Lack of Legislative Action on Border Security and Immigration Issues at Our Southern Border", "2018-11-29", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.29.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Discusses Lack of Legislative Action on Border Security and Immigration Issues at Our Southern Border \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Lankford: The border agents on the ground said they used to have 10 crossings a day through the old-style fencing; now they have one illegal crossing a month through that new fencing.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t CLICK HEREfor the video of the entire floor speech.\r\nWASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today deliveredahis 10th floor speech on the Senate floor about border security issues at the US southern border and on the consequences of a lack of real congressional action to solve immigration issues including,the asylum process, the process for keeping families together when they enter the US, border security, and other policies that haven't been updated since the 1990s.\r\nIn June 2018, Lankfordreleased an episode of his podcast, The Breakdown with James Lankfordspecifically discussing the immigration debate in Washington and the family separation issue. And in Julyhe spoke on the Senate floorin yet another attempt to urge Congress to act immigration issues.\r\nMore recently, Lankford joined Senators Portman, Blumenthal, and Carper tointroduce a billin September 2018 to address care for unaccompanied minors while in federal custody andquestioned witnessesfrom US CBP and ICE about ways to solve immigration placement issues for immigrant families with children.\r\nExcerpts:\r\nOn the current southern border situation\r\n(Starts at1:16):This is the 10th time I've come to this floor to talk about immigration in just the last three years. Earlier this year, in February, we had a tremendous amount of work that was happening here in the Senate to try to come to a set of agreements about how we can manage immigration policy in the United States, and those agreements failed. While InSight was traveling 300 million miles, this Senate still did nothing to be able to resolve the issue of immigration.\r\nAnd we watched today, several thousand people in Tijuana living in a soccer stadium after they left out from Honduras, traveled into GuatemalaGuatemalans deporting several thousand of themand saying, You didn't cross legally from Honduras into Guatemala.' And then they approached the border between Guatemala and Mexico, and Mexico put their law enforcement and their military on the border and said, You can't just cross the border illegally from Guatemala into Mexico.' And then they charged the bridge, overran the law enforcement and the military of the Mexican police, went around into the river and regrouped again and continued to move forward through Mexico.\r\nOn border crossing at the southern border\r\n(Starts at5:59):Last year, there were 400,000 people that were arrested illegally crossing our southern border. 400,000. Now, again, that may seem like an incredibly large number, but let me put it back in perspective. Half a million peoplethat would be 500,000 peoplelegally cross our border on the south every day. So we had 400,000 people arrested crossing our southern border illegally400,000but yet over the total of an entire year, 400,000 people arrested, but every single day, 500,000 people legally cross our entire southern border. As I mentioned, 100,000 of those just at San Diego. These Americans need to make decisions about how we're going to handle immigration, and I think we've got to get some numbers and some perspective in place because all the attention seems to be distracting us from the actual facts and numbers.\r\nOn family separation\r\n(Starts at7:04):There's been a lot of conversation about family units and about what does it mean for family units to be able to come in and should family units be separated. And let me make it very clear: I've been very outspoken to say family units need to stay together whenever possible. We are Americans. We're very passionate about families. If a family unit crosses the border illegally, as much as possible, we need to keep that family unit together. That may mean we need to have them in a spot, in a detention unit or someplace where they can actually stay together as a family as much as possible. But for whatever reason, the courts have not allowed us to be able to go through that system. I think that's something that this Congress needs to respond to and needs to be able to step up to, but this Congress has been unwilling to be able to do the votes that it takes to be able to make sure family units actually stay together because the drama of tearing families apart looks so much better on TV. But what's been the result of that? What's been the result is a massive increase in the number of children that are coming to our border. This may sound familiar to you, and it should.\r\nOn the human trafficking of Central American children\r\n(Starts a11:42):Some may have noted over the weekend, a Washington Post story that was titled, For Central Americans, children open a path to the US And bring a discount.' The Washington Post story was a story that they're doing research in Central America. These human smugglerswhat they're doing now in their businessthey detail the story that it will cost $10,000 if you travel as an adult, but if you bring a child with you, you and the child can come for $4,500. So it's half price if you bring a kid. And families are so desperate in that area to get some kind of assistance, literally adult males mostly are going to families and say, Let me take your child with me. I'll get a discount, and then I'll send you some cash back, and I'll try to enroll this child in an American school or find somebody to be able to take care of them.' And we have individuals showing up at our southern border now that are bringing a child they're not related to because they get a discount on their human smuggling time, and they get more expedited process to be able to actually get across the border to request asylum, though they're not actually requesting asylum. Do we not see what's happening?\r\nWe are encouraging the human trafficking of children from Central America from unrelated adults to come. It has a nickname in Central America, now that the Washington Post story highlighted. It's called adoptions. That's the new nickname. I'm going to take my child and adopt them out to some unrelated adult, and so they can get into America cheaper and faster, and hopefully things turn out for that kid as well. A broken immigration system is encouraging this. And we need to address it.\r\nOn the border fence\r\n(Starts at14:21):Congress provided the funding and DHS has done 18-foot high bollard-style fencingopen fencing that you can see through, not the solid sheet metal that's up there. And the actual final results haven't been released on it yet. The border agents on the ground said they used to have 10 crossings a day through the old-style fencing; now they have one illegal crossing a month through that new fencing. And for all of the whining and all of the conversation that I hear, if you build a fence, there's just a ladder, it's dropped from ten a day to one a month just when the fencing changed, and it allows our agents to be able to see a danger or risk on the other side and to be able to respond to it.\r\n(Starts at16:59):This is not just about fencing, it's also about technology and DHS has done both, and it is a making a difference. But while the cameras are focused on children coughing with tear gas at our southern border, we need to ask ourselves a question: What are we doing in the policy here that's encouraging people to bring children to the border thinking they are going to get faster access if they can illegally cross? Why is this happening? How do we stop it with our policy?\r\nOn the areas Congress needs to address\r\n(Starts at19.12):Let's honor people who do it the right way. Let's fix broken areas of the system that are encouraging parents to bring children illegally across the border because they get a discount. Let's find a way to be able to work out work visas. Let's deal with issues like temporary protected status that needs to be resolved. Let's deal with the issues of our immigration, but let's not continue to stall. If the Mars InSight probe can travel 300 million miles in five months, surely this Congress can sit down and resolve the immigration issue in a few months.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t Press Contact", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-serve-house-republican-steering-committee", "Cole to Serve on House Republican Steering Committee", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON  Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he was elected to serve on the House Republican Steering Committee for the 116th Congress. The panel is responsible for choosing leaders and assigning members to various committees of the House.\nI am greatly honored to again serve on the House Republican Steering Committee, said Cole. Especially in times of divided government, it is vital for members to serve where they can be most influential and provide substantive insight. In the days ahead, I look forward to meeting with my fellow members and providing my input on those important assignments.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-questions-witnesses-at-epw-hearing3", "ICYMI: Inhofe Questions Witnesses at EPW Hearing", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: Inhofe Questions Witnesses at EPW Hearing\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 28, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, questioned Mr. Carlos Braceras, President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; Mr. Robert Lanham, Vice President of the Associated General Contractors of America; and Mr. James Corless, Executive Director of the Sacramento Area Council of Governments, at an EPW hearing today entitled Addressing America's Surface Transportation Infrastructure Needs.\r\n\r\nClick to watch Sen. Inhofe's remarks.\r\nRemarks:\r\nInhofe: I'm very proud, and I think you know this, Mr. Lanham, because you have a lot of good members in Oklahoma, you've probably heard me say this before. But, we had a governor once named Bartlett, he and I, when I was in the state senate, way back before most of you guys here were even born, back in the 60s, we started that program. We started that for Oklahoma, it's been a leader for a long period of time. And soIn factwe've recently extended that.\r\nOne of the problems we have in workforce development, I want to get comments on that from each one of you on that issue, is one that is across the board. When we did the FAA re-authorization bill, I put an amendment in there that you had experimental pilot programs to develop the workforce development program in the FAA re-authorization bill. Any of you want to comment on that issue? Workforce development? Now, you're doing a good job, I know that you guys put forth programs where you can hire people right out of these technical programs and that goes right intothat's been very, very effective in Oklahoma.\r\nLanham: And a part of what we call our OJTOn the Job Trainingprogram where we liaison with the technical schools or can work with the vocational training out of the high schools, but yes sir. It works well. It's a major focus and a major emphasis for AGC of America. We are partnering with AASHTO, federal highways, we have a pilot program, we've got five states that have signed on that are working with a test project on how to integrate workforce development.\r\nNow, we're battling a lot of cultural stigma with regards tomost of our challenges is not with the professional trades, engineers, it's with the construction trades, the carpenters, and that's not a college-bound career. We're offering alternatives to young people and well-paying careers. How do we reach through that bias that seems to be out there.\r\nInhofe: Well thank you. And is it fair to say that you've had comparable success in other states that you've had in Oklahoma? Because you have had success in Oklahoma.\r\nLanham: We have, yes sir.\r\nInhofe: Well that's good. On the issue of the freight program, we had Mr. BracerasI noticed you made a comment in your written testimony on an Enid, Oklahoma company, so you're familiar with the problem. Now, when we developedI was chair of this committee back when we did the FAST Actand we developed a freight program for the first time.\r\nAny comments to how that seems to be working right now, or areas for improvement on that?\r\nBraceras: Yes, thank you, Senator. That program is working very well for the state of Utah. To me, the freight program was a clear recognition by this committee and congress of the importance that the transportation system serves for freight. When you think about it, the freight is that connection for people, even if you're not out there using the roadways, you depend on the freight that's being moved by the highway system and the rail system.\r\nAnd so, I consider the freight program one of the really good additions that came about, and we're doing projects right now that we could not have gotten to and would not have been able to prioritize but for the freight program. So, thank you.\r\nInhofe: Well good. And Mr. Lanham, it was an off the record comment that you made in response to when Senator Barrasso once stated that the federal formula program has worked. You know, that's one of the few things the government seems to be working. That does take into consideration the needs of the various states that are around, they have a lot of input. When you come up with a formula and they introduce a comprehensive bill and everyone's mad about here, at this table, you've done a good job.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-reed-rounds-duckworth-heller-and-peters-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-to-commemorate-end-of-wwii", "Inhofe, Reed, Rounds, Duckworth, Heller and Peters Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation to Commemorate End of WWII", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe, Reed, Rounds, Duckworth, Heller and Peters Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation to Commemorate End of WWII\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 28, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dean Heller (R-Nev.) and Gary Peters (D-Mich.) praised the Senate passage of the 75th Anniversary of World War II Commemoration Act yesterday. This legislation establishes a commemorative program to honor veterans, educate the public about the history of World War II, highlight the service of the men and women who served our nation on the home front during the war, recognize the contributions of our allies and remember the horrors of the Holocaust.\r\nWe owe it to the veterans of World War II to recognize their service to this great nation and I applaud my colleagues in the Senate for doing exactly that today, Inhofe said. With the passage of the 75th Anniversary of World War II Commemoration Act, we not only have the opportunity to pay homage to the selfless sacrifice the Greatest Generation made in World War II, but we allow for the needed education of current and future generations about the war's heroes and history.\r\nThis is a salute to the uncommon courage and extraordinary selflessness of our World War II veterans. This initiative will help us recognize, remember, and reflect on their profound service and enduring legacy, said Reed, a former Army Ranger.\r\nThe world owes a debt of gratitude to the men and women who led us to victory in World War II,Rounds said.Deserving of the titleThe Greatest Generation -given to them by South Dakota's own Tom Brokaw - these men and women prepared to sacrifice everything to preserve our freedom and save the world.I am pleased to see our effort move forward to recognize the World War II generation, whose service, courage and resolve forever changed the course of history.\r\nAs our nation approaches the 75th Anniversary of World War II, it's important we continue to remember the tremendous sacrifices made by our Veterans during this perilous time for our country,Duckworth said.I'm proud the Senate unanimously passed this bipartisan legislation to help preserve their legacy by further educating the American people about this period in our nation's history.\r\nMillions of Americans bravely stood up to tyranny and served our country during WWII, many of them paying the ultimate price in defense of our freedoms and democracy,said Heller. These men and women represent the very best that our country has to offer, and we must never lose sight of their sacrifice, courage, and commitment to defeating evil and achieving peace. That's why I joined my colleagues to introduce legislation that preserves our soldiers' legacy, pays tribute to Nevada's WWII veterans, remembers all of those who suffered immensely during the Holocaust, and recognizes the contributions of our allies by establishing a commemorative and educational program in light of the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII.\r\nWhen the forces of tyranny threatened the annihilation of our values and our way of life, an entire generation of Americans answered the call to defeat evil in its worst forms, said Peters. I am pleased the Senate has passed this bipartisan effort to honor the servicemen and women of World War II as we approach the 75th anniversary of the end of the war. Michigan built the Arsenal of Democracy that overwhelmed the Axis Powers on battlefields across the globe, and this legislation will ensure the war and its impact on history will always be remembered.\r\nClick here to view the legislation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-coons-urge-delay-of-new-tax-liabilities-on-nonprofits", "Senators Lankford, Coons urge delay of new tax liabilities on nonprofits", "2018-11-28", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.28.18\n\t\t\t Senators Lankford, Coons urge delay of new tax liabilities on nonprofits \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lanford (R-OK) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the National Prayer Breakfast and the Senate Prayer Breakfast, sent a letter totheSecretary of the Treasury,StevenMnuchin, expressing their concerns about the challenges faced by tax-exempt organizations, such as charitable nonprofits, houses of worship, and foundations,regarding compliance withnew tax liabilities.\r\n\r\nEnacted in December 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act applies the Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT) of 21 percent to tax-exempt organizations in an unexpected manner. Historically, nonprofits have paid UBIT if they operated unrelated businesses or trades.However, under the new law,nonprofits must now use a significantly different method of calculating and reporting the income and loss for each unrelated business or trade in ways that are unclear. The new law also directs nonprofits to pay UBIT on employee benefits, such as transit passes, parking spots, and provided meals for the first time.\r\n\r\nNonprofits in Oklahoma, Delaware, and all across the country provide countless services to Americans in need, including combating homelessness, lifting faith, providing health care to the medically underserved, and improving outcomes for disadvantaged youth,Lankford and Coons wrote.Employees of nonprofits often have the same access to parking and meals that others in the community have because the nonprofit serves the whole community. Eating a meal with the homeless in their shelter should not be a taxable benefit for their employees; it is part of the work of the nonprofit.\r\n\r\nRequiring these organizations to pay a federal tax on these employee benefits, something they have never been required to do before will cause them to not only face an increased operating cost, but also an administrative burden.\r\n\r\nThe new tax liabilities took effect on January 1, 2018, giving nonprofits just a few days over the holidays to understand and adapt to thenew tax liabilities and budget for the unanticipated costs. Many organizations were in the middle of their fiscal years at the time and had to adjust their systems and procedures retroactively.Additionally, Treasury and the IRS have not issued Final Rules on either section of the new law, leaving many questions unansweredfor charities, houses of worship, foundations and other tax-exempt organizations and their professional advisers, despite these organizations writing to the Department and IRS.\r\n\r\nThe letter written by Senators Coons and Lankford urges the Department of the Treasury and the InternalRevenue Service to delay the implementation of the new UBITsectionsuntil one year after the Final Rules are issued. The delay would provide additional time for the Department to work with Congress and the tax-exempt community to address the confusion and operational compliance challenges faced by charitable nonprofits, houses of worship, and foundations so that they are able to continue providing critical services to communities without undue burden or interruption.\r\n\r\nThe full text of the letter is copied below and is availablehere.\r\nNovember 27, 2018\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Steven Mnuchin\r\nSecretary\r\nU.S. Department of the Treasury\r\n1500 Pennsylvania Ave NW\r\nWashington, D.C. 20220\r\n\r\nDear Secretary Mnuchin:\r\n\r\nWe write to call your attention to the challenges that tax-exempt organizations, including charitable nonprofits, houses of worship, and foundations, are experiencing regarding compliance with the new Internal Revenue Code Sections 512(a)(6) and 512(a)(7) under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Public Law No. 115-97) enacted in December 2017.\r\nAs you know, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, two sections apply the Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT) of 21% to charitable nonprofits, houses of worship, and foundations. While we understand that nonprofits have historically paid UBIT if they operated unrelated businesses or trades, Section 512(a)(6) imposes a significantly different method of calculating and reporting the income and loss for each unrelated business or trade for nonprofits in ways that are unclear.\r\n\r\nSection 512(a)(7) directs nonprofits to pay UBIT on employee benefits such as transit passes, parking spots, and provided meals for the first time. Nonprofits are organized around a cause, mission, or community need, and employees of nonprofits often have the same access to parking and meals that others in the community have because the nonprofit serves the whole community. Eating a meal with the homeless in their shelter should not be a taxable benefit for their employees; it is part of the work of the nonprofit. Parking is most often not an unrelated business for a nonprofit, and it is only an issue in the narrow case that the nonprofit leases their parking spaces on days or times they are not normally used for the nonprofit. If a nonprofit owns spaces in an urban area for the use of their employees, that is no different than providing the employee office space to work during the day or a bike rack to store their bike. That is not unrelated business. If a nonprofit is near a large university and they use their parking lot as a fundraiser during a sports game or concert, it is the same as using their parking lot to set up a table to sell lemonade on a summer afternoon as a fundraiser. A parking lot is not a benefit to most nonprofits, it is an essential part of their reach into the community. Parking lots for nonprofits are often gravel and unstriped; it is not even possible to note a cost per space, because there is no way to accurately determine how many spaces they have on their open lot.\r\n\r\nRequiring these organizations to pay a federal tax on these employee benefits, something they have never been required to do before, will cause them to not only face an increased operating cost, but also an administrative burden by filing 990-T forms with the IRS for the first time.\r\n\r\nAs Senator Lankford and I mentioned in our previous letter to the Department and IRS regarding the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act on the charitable deduction, nonprofits in Oklahoma, Delaware, and all across the country provide countless services to Americans in need, including combating homelessness, lifting faith, providing health care to the medically underserved, and improving outcomes for disadvantaged youth. Also, as co-chairs of both the National Prayer Breakfast and the Senate Prayer Breakfast, we believe that we have a moral obligation to support our neighbors most in need, and nonprofits play an essential role in doing just that.\r\n\r\nThe new unrelated business income taxes on tax-exempt entities ostensibly took effect on January 1, 2018. Nonprofits had only a few days over the holidays to learn of and try to understand these new tax liabilities, adapt their accounting systems and procedures to secure full compliance, and budget for the unanticipated costs. Many organizations were in the middle of their fiscal years on January 1, and thus were expected to adjust their systems retroactively.\r\n\r\nIt is the responsibility of the Department of the Treasury to issue regulations that provide guidance to the affected communities in order to enable them to comply with the new law. We understand that on August 21, 2018, Notice 2018-67 was released with interim guidance regarding issues arising under Section 512(a)(6). However, many questions remain unanswered for charities, houses of worship, foundations and other tax-exempt organizations and their professional advisers on both sections, despite these organizations writing to the Department and IRS. Also, on November 8, the Department of the Treasury and IRS published a 2018-2019 Priority Guidance Plan, placing guidance for Section 512(a)(7) on this list. However, this still does not provide taxation clarification for nonprofits.\r\nWe urge the Department and IRS to delay the implementation of both Section 512(a)(6) and 512(a)(7) until one year after Final Rules are issued. It is essential that the Department of the Treasury and IRS engage the regulated community during the formal rulemaking process to identify not only how the wording of the new provisions is causing confusion and operational compliance challenges among nonprofits and their professional tax advisors, but also possible regulatory solutions.\r\nMr. Secretary, we believe strongly that a one year delay in implementing the Final Rules is a necessary step that will provide additional time for the Department to work with Congress and the tax-exempt community, including America's charitable nonprofits and houses of worship, so that they are able to continue providing critical services to communities in Delaware, Oklahoma, and across the country without undue burden or interruption.\r\nWe urge you to act swiftly on this matter.\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lawmakers-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-40th-anniversary", "Lawmakers Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the Indian Child Welfare Act", "2018-11-27", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.  Today, Senators Tom Udall (D-N.M.) and John Hoeven (R-N.D.), vice chairman and chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, respectively, along with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Representatives Karen Bass (D-Calif.) and Tom Cole (R-Okla.), led 46 members of Congress in introducing a bipartisan resolution commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA), recognizing itsimportance to promoting the stability and security of Tribal communities and families.\nICWA sets best-practice standards for child welfare and adoption proceedings involving children who are members of a federally-recognized Tribe or are eligible for membership in a federally-recognized Tribe. It was designed to respond to the disproportionately high number of Native children who were unnecessarily removed from their families. When the law was first enacted in 1978, one-third of all Native children in the U.S. were placed in foster care or adoptive homes by child welfare systems unfamiliar with tribal child rearing practices, resulting in generations of displaced Native children. Over four decades, the law has become the gold standard for child welfare policy and keeping Native children connected to their communities and cultures.\nNative American children, like all children, thrive when they are able to grow up with the support of their families, communities, and cultures, said Udall. Congress enacted the Indian Child Welfare Act in 1978 to ensure that best practices in child custody for Native communities are in place, keeping families together and kids healthy and safe. Now, on the 40th anniversary of its passage, I'm proud to have worked with my colleagues in the House and Senate to mark the important impact that this law has had on generations of Native kids.\nThe Indian Child Welfare Act is an important piece of legislation that respects the principles of government to government relationships with Tribes and Tribal sovereignty, said Hoeven.  \n\t  \n\tThe Indian Child Welfare Act or ICWA is landmark legislation enacted four decades ago to end the abusive practice of adopting out' Native children in need of aid, said Murkowski. Its premise is that Native children who grow up with a connection to their heritage and culture become strong adults and parents. The State of Alaska and Alaska's 229 tribes have partnered to ensure that this important legislation fulfills its promise to our Native children. It is important that we celebrate this partnership during this 40th anniversary year for ICWA is as vital today as it was on the day it was enacted by Congress.\nForty years ago, when the Indian Child Welfare Act became law, Congress declared national policy for Tribal children, said Bass. Through the Indian Child Welfare Act, Congress recognizes tribes' sovereign authority to make decisions about children who are tribal members. Eighteen national child welfare and child advocacy organizations  including the Child Welfare League of American, the National Association of Social Workers, and the North American Council on Adoptable Children  are united in their view that the Indian Child Welfare Act is the gold standard for child welfare policies and practices that should be afforded to all children. This bipartisan resolution affirms the principles embodied in the Indian Child Welfare Act, including the importance of protecting the best interests of American Indian and Alaska Native children, promoting the stability and security of Indian Tribes and families, and respecting tribal sovereignty. Congress should pass it.\nAt the heart of the Indian Child Welfare Act is the recognition that tribal heritage is a profoundly special and valuable heritage to know and pass on, said Cole. Forty years since this monumental legislation was enacted, we affirm our obligation to serve the best interests of Native children and ensure that their tribal heritage is not lost.\nIn addition to Udall, Hoeven, Murkowski, Bass, and Cole, the Senate resolution is sponsored by Senators Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Angus King (I-Maine), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cory A. Booker (D-N.J.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and Kamala D. Harris (D-Calif.) while the House resolution is sponsored by Representatives Ben Ray Lujn (D-N.M.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), Derek Kilmer (D-Wash.), Ral M. Grijalva (D-Ariz.), Rick Larsen (D-Wash.), Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Don Young (R-Alaska), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.), Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Norma Torres (D-Calif.), Tom Marino (R-Pa.), Tony Crdenas (D-Calif.), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.), Alcee Hastings (D-Fla.), Jim Langevin (D-R.I.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), and Tom O'Halleran (D-Ariz.).\nThe full text of the resolution can be found HERE.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/main-street-drives-thriving-economy", "Main Street Drives a Thriving Economy", "2018-11-27", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Over the weekend, communities across the country had the opportunity to participate in Small Business Saturday. While this annual shop local event encourages Americans to get out and show support for small businesses in their neighborhoods, it also serves as a reminder that a thriving economy is driven by our Main Street job creators.\nWhen I travel across the Fourth District of Oklahoma, I am always inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit and can-do attitude of our own small businesses. Whether as an employee or owner, Americans depend greatly on small business success. Currently, there are more than 30 million small businesses in the United States, and an estimated two out of three new jobs in the economy are created by small businesses. In fact, more than half of Oklahoma's workforce either owns or works for a small business. According to the most recent state findings from the Small Business Administration, Oklahoma has approximately 347,165 small businesses employing an estimated 712,797 people.\nIt is amazing to see the real difference a year of improved policy can make for our Main Street job creators. Without question, Congress should continue to lift the regulatory and tax burdens that hinder the success of America's small businesses. But thanks to tax reform, I am pleased to report that the environment has been greatly improved on Main Street.\nSince the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law, small businesses and the communities they serve have become noticeably better off. According to the findings of a recent survey by the National Federation of Independent Business, optimism amongst small business owners is at its highest level in recorded history. Due to much-needed tax relief, job creators on Main Street have been able to expand and invest more in their employees. Wages are rising for workers, more jobs are available and hiring is ticking upward. In fact, unemployment has declined to its lowest level in half a century.\nThis year on Small Business Saturday, the future indeed looked brighter on Main Street for business owners, for workers and for consumers. While I am encouraged to see the tangible benefits of tax reform in such a short time for small businesses, lawmakers must continue to identify and ease unnecessary burdens weighing them down. When entrepreneurs and small business owners are empowered for lasting success, the whole of the nation clearly thrives as a result.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-sasc-chairman-inhofe-remarks-at-sasc-hearing", "ICYMI: SASC Chairman Inhofe Remarks at SASC Hearing", "2018-11-27", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: SASC Chairman Inhofe Remarks at SASC Hearing\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 27, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, gave opening remarks this morning at a SASC hearing to review the findings and recommendation of the report by the Commission on the National Defense Strategy. Witnesses included Ambassador Eric S. Edelman and Admiral Gary Roughead, USN (Ret.), co-chairs of the Commission on the National Defense Strategy.\r\n\r\nClick to watch Sen. Inhofe's introduction.\r\nAs prepared for delivery:\r\nThe meeting will come to order.\r\nI want to thank the members of the Commission, especially the co-chairs who are witnesses here today, for what they put together. I've had the occasion to be involved in different analyses of our comparative strengths, our threats. Since eight years in the House Armed Services Committee and 24 years in the Senate Armed Services Committee, I have not seen anything like this before. To see the blatant honesty, straight-forward approach to the problems that are out there. Something that, quite frankly, most of the American people are not aware of.\r\nTheir bipartisan report makes clear that our nation confronts stark choices. It says The United States confronts a grave crisis of national security and national defense. The primary duty of the federal government is defending the American people, American territory, and American interests abroad.\r\nThe report goes on to say the strategic landscape is growing steadily more threatening. Combined with the fact that America's long-standing military advantages have diminished, we are now in the national security crisis predicted by both the 2010 Quadrennial Defense Review Panel and 2014 National Defense Panel.\r\nTo address our present national security crisis, and restore America's eroding military advantage, we must fully resource and implement the National Defense Strategy. If we fail to do so, we must be prepared to endure the American casualties, and even possible defeat, in wars that could have been avoided.\r\nIn particular, I am troubled by the commission's unequivocal assessment that our Defense Strategy is not adequately resourcedthat we are very near the point of strategic insolvency.'\r\nThe Commission report is unambiguous: America's fiscal problems must not be solved on the backs of our troops. Deep reductions in defense spending by previous Administrations have had a huge effect. The problems we have hadbetween the two Fiscal Years of 2010 and 2015, we have had a dramatic reduction in terms of constant dollars. I'll read from the report:\r\n constant-dollar defense spending (in estimated 2018 dollars) fell from $794 billion in Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 to $586 billion in FY2015, according to U.S. government statistics. In percentage terms, this constituted the fastest drawdown since the years following the Korean War.\r\nThe National Defense Strategy is a blueprint to address the world as it is now. And the Commission's report is a blueprint to implement the National Defense Strategy.\r\nThe report points out that the country's strategic margin for victory has become distressingly small.\r\nSending our men and women into harm's way without the training, equipment, and resources they need to succeed is morally irresponsibleand that happened. We know that when we sent our troops in the brigade combat teams, only 30 percent of them could actually be deployed. Our army aviation brigadesonly 25 percent could be deployed. We saw what happened in the maintenance of our F-18s that our marines were flying. We were not adequately resourcing the equipment, maintaining the equipment and modernizing the equipment.\r\nThe Commission advises that we have a need for extraordinary urgency in addressing the crisis of national defense and I agree. I am personally very proud of the commission's courage to identify the threat and the urgent needs.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-udall-introduce-legislation-designating-route-66-as-a-national-historic-trail", "Inhofe, Udall Introduce Legislation Designating Route 66 as a National Historic Trail", "2018-11-27", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe, Udall Introduce Legislation Designating Route 66 as a National Historic Trail\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 27, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) introducedS. 3609, The Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act,which would amend theNational Trails System Actto designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail, administered by the National Park Service (NPS). In June of this year, the House of Representatives voted unanimously to pass the bipartisan legislation.\r\n\r\nRoute 66, also known as the Will Rogers Highway, is more than 2,400 miles long, stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, and crossing through 8 states. In New Mexico, the Route 66 corridor serves 492,000 people and runs 380 miles long, connecting urban centers like Albuquerque with rural communities like Gallup and Tucumcari. In Oklahoma, Route 66 runs for over 400 miles through Tulsa and Oklahoma City and includes the longest drivable stretch of America's Main Street.\r\nRoute 66 deserves recognition as a National Historic Trail,said Inhofe. Oklahoma is home to the longest drivable stretch of America's Main Street,' which earned its name from decades of connecting small businesses and rural communities with visitors from around the country. Museums from Clinton to Elk City to Chandler highlight the impact of this road as a representation of American pioneer values. I am proud to introduce this bill that will ensure Route 66 continues to reflect the history of our nation.\r\nRoute 66 is iconic -- a long stretch of old road that cuts across eight states, linking the American West through a patchwork of Americana,said Udall. It's not just a place, but a personality; an open road symbolizing freedom and teeming with mom-and-pop diners,small businesses, and scenic byways. In its heyday, this legendary highway was the major artery of the United States and an important pathway for westward migration until it was bypassed by the interstate system.By designating Route 66 as a National Historic Trail, this legislation would revitalize cities, small towns and rural communities along the Route 66 corridor in New Mexico and across the country, bolstering local economies and protecting vibrant historic sites.Just as importantly, this bill would safeguard Route 66 as cultural landmark, preserving its significance as the Main Street of America' for future generations of adventurers, migrants, hitchhikers, and tourists venturing westward.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-questions-witnesses-at-sasc-hearing", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Questions Witnesses at SASC Hearing", "2018-11-27", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Questions Witnesses at SASC Hearing\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 27, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, questioned witnesses this morning at a SASC hearing to review the findings and recommendation of the report by the Commission on the National Defense Strategy. Witnesses included Ambassador Eric S. Edelman and Admiral Gary Roughead, USN (Ret.), co-chairs of the Commission on the National Defense Strategy.\r\n\r\nClick to watch Sen. Inhofe's remarks.\r\nRemarks:\r\nInhofe: Thank you, Admiral, and I thank both of you for emphasizing how this is put together. I know in the caseyou, Admiral, were nominated by a Democrat. You, Ambassador, were nominated by a Republican. You wouldn't know it and I think you articulated that very well.\r\nI've not seen one like this beforeI think you had both the House and the Senate and Democrats and Republicans on both sides. I want to start off by just covering some of the thingshighlighting some of the problems that were pointed out that the vast majority of the American people are not aware of. Those of us up here are.\r\nThe commission, and I'm quoting from this right now, \"the commission assesses unequivocally that the NDS is not adequately resourced.\" Further quote, \"America is very near the point of strategic insolvency. America's military superiority, which under-rides the global influence and national security has eroded to a dangerous degree.\r\nAmerica's combat edge is diminishing or has disappeared in many key technologies that underpin the U.S. military's superiority. The United States is at risk of being overwhelmed should its military be forced to fight in two or more fronts simultaneously.\r\nYou know, some of us who have been around a long time can remember that that used to be our standard. We had that there. We had to drop away from thatthat was regretful. So anyway, Ambassador Edelman, we areyour report cites it very clearly that what some of our people have said they said before this committee in terms of what needs to be done. Well, we pointed out that in real dollars, between 2010 and 2015, the amount of money dropped by $200 billion.\r\nIt came down from $794 billion to $586 billionthat was the end of 2015. We knew we had to do something. So looking at the challenge that we had, we wanted to get up in 2018 to $700 billion, which we did. In 2019, $716 billion and then in the president's original budget, it's up to $733 billion for the comingfor FY20.\r\nNow, we've already establishedand you've stated in the report and elsewherewe've also heard testimony before this committee, two different times that we need to be looking at it in terms of increasing to about 3 to 5 percent over inflation. Now, this is something we think we need.\r\nI agree that we need it, I think most of the people up hereand I know you two agree with it because it's in your report. And yet, the $733 billion that they are talking about right now is one that is somewhat in danger, there have been several quotes of people saying we don't need the $733 billion.\r\nBut stop and think about it. This is not a matter of 3 or 5 percent over inflation. Going from $716 billion to $733 billion is a 2.3 percent increase, which is below inflation. So, I believe that we're being very generous in terms of interpreting this and saying that this $733 is going to have to be looked at as a floor and not a ceiling. I'd like to have each of you comment on that, on that budget. This is going to be something we have to deal with.\r\nEdelman: Chairman Inhofe, I agree with the statement of the problem that you just made. Let me talk for a second, if I could, about how we came to the illustrative finding that 3 to 5 percent was about the right number. And I will tell you that as smoothly as the commission's workings were and as much unanimity as we had on all the issues that are in the report, had I asked the commission to tell us what each member thought the top-line should be, I doubt we could have come to a unanimous agreement on that.\r\nBut what we did agree on, was that Chairman Dunford and Secretary Mattis, when they first testified before you and the HASC, not about the new NDS, but back in 2017 when they were still operating under the existing defense strategic guidance from the Obama administrationtestified that they believed they needed 3 to 5 percent annual real growth in order to sustain that strategy.\r\nOur judgement as a commission was that the NDS has a higher level of ambition because of its desire to put us in a much better competitive space with Russia and China, in particular, and therefore it stood to reason that 3 to 5 percent, as an illustrative number, was the minimum that would be necessary. Possibly more.\r\nI think we have a wide range of views among us on the commission as to how much more, but that that would be the minimum. And it's for that reason that we were troubled when we talked to folks in the administration, who said that they were planning, and the Department, on flat budgets after FY19.\r\nIt seemed to us that it would be very difficult to actually execute that strategy under those kinds of fiscal constraints. So I certainly agree that $733 billion ought to be, as my colleague just said, a floor not a ceiling, as you all go forward in your deliberations.\r\nInhofe: I appreciate that, and I think that's a longer answer but a very articulate answer. We know what we're going to have to be doing and we have to have the right priorities in our own thinking. There is two other areas, and I think you'll be covering these in responses to other questions.\r\nBut one having to do with China and Russia, what we consider to be our peer competitors. I think that's significant. Some people are surprised when they find out some of the things that China and Russia are doing that are actually ahead of us in many areas: ship-building, maintenance, hypersonicshypersonic is something that they hadn't even started yet but they're already rapidly passing us up in one respect.\r\nElectronic warfare, nuclear triad modernizationthat's going to be one of the top things that we're going to be dealing with in this committee. Air defense, artilleryyou know both China and Russia have us outranged and outgunned, we've heard the experts testify to that.\r\nSo I'm anxious to get your response to some of those things, in response to other people's questions. And then the last thing being, now disequilibrium is not a word that I use, but I'm sure it's real and it's out there and I think you say that there is a disequilibrium between the aging of America's nuclear arsenal and the vigorous modernization programs of our adversaries and I would hope that during the course of your responses, you might articulate some examples of these, because this is something that is very distressing.\r\nI think we have agreed with you that both the Secretaries of Defense in both Republican and the Democrat administrations have identified nuclear deterrents as the Department's number one priority. Senator Reed.\r\nClick to watch Sen. Inhofe's introduction.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-perdue-and-ernst-propose-bold-changes-to-ensure-congress-funds-government-on-time", "Senators Lankford, Perdue, and Ernst Propose Bold Changes To Ensure Congress Funds Government On Time", "2018-11-27", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.27.18\n\t\t\t Senators Lankford, Perdue, and Ernst Propose Bold Changes To Ensure Congress Funds Government On Time \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Senators Push Real World Consequences For Failure To Meet Funding Deadlines\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford (R-OK), David Perdue (R-GA), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) are proposing bold changes to the funding process to ensure Congress does its job and fully funds the federal government on time. The Senators are introducing amendments to create specific milestones for passing a budget and appropriations bills that would keep Congress on track. The proposals will be considered in the bicameral, bipartisan Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform markup today.\r\nCongress should face consequences if we cannot act in time to pass a budget and fund the government, said Lankford, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. This past summer, the Senate did not take the annual August state work period because the work in Washington was unfinished. This year, only five of the 12 individual appropriations bills were signed into law by the September 30 deadline, leaving seven still remaining for Congress to address. Congress has not been able to pass all 12 appropriations bills since 1995. This amendment should be included in the final text of the bill passed by the Joint Committee.\r\nIn the real world, you are held accountable to make tough decisions and complete the job, said Perdue, who serves on the Senate Budget Committee. Unfortunately, Washington is locked in a cycle of continuing resolutions and last-minute spending deals. This is totally irresponsible. To be successful, this Joint Select Committee must create a politically neutral platform with specific milestones for completing funding and impose severe consequences if Members of Congress don't get the job done. We won't fix this broken funding process or the national debt crisis if Congress refuses to hold itself accountable for failure.\r\nThe most essential role Congress has is to raise revenue and fund the federal government, said Ernst. Yet, since 1974, Congress has passed all of its appropriations bills just four times. And, in the past 20 years, we have only passed a budget resolution 11 times! Congress can do better; we owe it to the American people to complete our work on time. If we fail to meet our deadlines, we should stay at work until we get the job done.\r\nThe Joint Select Committee was established by Congress on February 9, 2018, and is composed of 16 Members of Congress: four Senate Republicans  including Lankford, Perdue, and Ernst  four Senate Democrats, four House Republicans, and four House Democrats. The members have until the end of the calendar year to agree on changes to the budget and appropriations process and present them to Congress for a full vote.\r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-statement-on-situation-in-kerch-strait", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on Situation in Kerch Strait", "2018-11-26", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on Situation in Kerch Strait\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 26, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement on the developing situation in the Kerch Strait:\r\n\"Russian aggression against Ukraine in the Kerch Strait is yet another reminder that Vladimir Putin is not serious about peace in Ukraine and will stop at nothing to advance his own power in the region. American diplomacy, reinforced by the appropriate military force posture and military readiness, should reflect that fact.\r\n\"The United States, with our European allies, must take action to reinforce our commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and restoration of its territorial integrity. If Putin continues his Black Sea bullying, the United States and Europe must consider imposing additional sanctions on Russia, inserting a greater U.S. and NATO presence in the Black Sea region and increasing military assistance for Ukraine, as called for in the FY 2018 NDAA.\r\n\"Russia's latest provocations against Ukraine are also a reminder that strategic competition with Russia and China, as highlighted by Secretary Mattis, is an immediate and urgent reality. These authoritarian powers will continue to test the limits of American resolve as they seek to advance their dark view of the world. The United States must respond to this challenge with purpose and strength, starting by fully resourcing the National Defense Strategy.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/cole-op-ed-oklahoman-hope-curing-alzheimer-s-disease", "Cole Op-Ed in The Oklahoman: Hope for curing Alzheimers disease", "2018-11-25", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The following op-ed written by Congressman Tom Cole (O-04) was originally published online and in the print edition ofThe Oklahoman.\nLike many others across the country, my family knows the toll that Alzheimer's disease takes on those living with it and those caring for them. Marked at first by forgetfulness, the disease at its worst eventually causes personalities to disappear and erases recognition of people and life's events from memory. I remember how painful it was to see that happen to my father during the last several years of his life.\nWhile few are unfamiliar with Alzheimer's and the heartbreaking decline that comes to those with the disease, mystery still largely surrounds its cause and rampant spread. Since the cause is unknown, its onset cannot be predicted or prevented. Even with physicians treating symptoms and caregivers doing their best, it is concerning that more and more people are getting the disease. Just recently, I was saddened to hear of former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's own battle with dementia and her decision to step away from public life.\nAlzheimer's has become far too common an affliction. According to the Alzheimer's Association, nearly 6 million Americans have it today, and projections show that 13.8 million could have the disease by the middle of this century.\nEach year, hundreds of billions of dollars are spent caring for people with the disease, including an ever-increasing strain on public resources. This year, the federal government is expected to spend $187 billion treating Alzheimer's patients through Medicare and Medicaid. That figure is expected to reach an unsustainable $750 billion by 2050.\nFor family members who often serve as caregivers, the cost is felt beyond dollars. Even out of sincere and selfless love, the task of looking after someone with Alzheimer's is often physically exhausting and emotionally draining. As a result, many caregivers experience a decline in their own health. During November, we rightly honor the many family members who extend a special labor of love by serving as caregivers.\nWithout question, Alzheimer's is much more than a difficult burden to bear. Indeed, it's a national health crisis with enormous financial and human costs, and I am encouraged that steps have been taken to provide some hope.\nTo slow down the disease and ultimately find a cure, research truly is the best long-term investment we can make. And since fiscal year 2016, I am proud that Republicans in both chambers of Congress have led the charge in prioritizing, securing and boosting funds for this vital research.\nRecognizing the desperate need, the appropriations subcommittee that I chair has consistently called for increased funding for dedicated Alzheimer's research at the National Institutes of Health. Thanks to the same commitment of my counterpart Sen. Roy Blunt, steady and annual increases for NIH have become the norm. In fact, the president recently signed into law legislation that significantly boosts funding for disease research at NIH  for the fourth straight year. NIH-supported researchers have already been able to forge ahead with new studies.\nAs lawmakers look toward a new Congress, funding for Alzheimer's disease research must remain a priority. Especially in divided government, this is an issue that must continue to transcend partisanship. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure funding continues.\nCole, R-Moore, is chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-in-fox-news-a-border-wall-can-be-built-for-25-billion_-heres-how-to-get-the-money", "Inhofe in Fox News: A Border Wall Can Be Built for $25 Billion - Here's How to Get the Money", "2018-11-20", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe in Fox News: A Border Wall Can Be Built for $25 Billion - Here's How to Get the Money\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 20, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tRight now, thousands of Central American migrants are marching towards the United States, intending to cross our southern border. They know that the majority of the 1,954-mile border is vulnerable and, even ifcaught, they can take advantage of our laws tostay in the U.S. illegally.\r\nEnough. We must secure our borders and stop migrants from abusing our immigration laws. President Trump knows this. That's why he has made border security  and a border wall  a priority.\r\nI'm with President Trump. That's why I've announced the first legislation that identifies how to fund the border wall.\r\nThe WALL Act would fully fund the $25 billion border wall by closing existing loopholes that allow illegal immigrants to receive federal benefits.\r\nFor too long, illegal immigrants have claimed refundable tax credits through Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) rather than a work-eligible Social Security number. By requiring work-authorized Social Security numbers for refundable tax credits, we'll save billions of dollars in tax credits that are only supposed to benefit American citizens or immigrants with legal status.\r\nMy bill would also ensure eligibility for federal welfare programs, like food stamps, by using E-Verify, a web-based system that allows enrolled employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the U.S. While we've had laws on the books to prevent illegal immigrants from receiving these benefits for years, the system is vulnerable to document fraud.\r\nBy using E-Verify, we can ensure the integrity of our social safety net for the families who are lawfully entitled to it. We can also deter illegal immigration by imposing (and enforcing) a fine on illegal border crossings.\r\nI want to be clear  closing these loopholes would prevent federal benefits for illegal immigrants. Closing these loopholes would not impact the services or tax credits for citizens or legal immigrants.\r\nWe also need to reform our immigration laws, especially the asylum process, to create safeguards against fraud and abuse.\r\nI've been to the border six times in the last five years and each time I hear the frustration from Customs and Border Patrol agents. They are inundated daily with rehearsed and scripted asylum claims. The data backs this up. Five years ago, only 1 out of 100 migrants claimed asylum. Today, it's 1 in 10.\r\nThat dramatic increase means we don't have the ability to detain families after they cross the border illegally and/or claim asylum. They are released with nothing more than an assigned court appearance, a process often known as catch and release.\r\nIf migrants really wanted asylum, they'd show up for their court dates and go through the proper legal channels. But their goal isn't really asylum; it's to circumvent our immigration laws. The proof? Approximately 75 percent of illegal immigrants have deportation orders for failure to appear in court.\r\nMy bill, the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act, would stop the abuse by requiring migrants to make an appointment with our embassies or consulates in Mexico for the screening and determination of their asylum claims. This would enable us to prevent many of the false claims of asylum that overwhelm our legal system.\r\nFor those immigrants who don't show up to court once in the United States, a criminal bench warrant would be issued for failure to appear.\r\nPresident Trump has made meaningful border security a priority and it is time for Congress to do the same by enacting my bills. It is what American families deserve  and even more, it is what the hardworking men and women who are abiding by our immigration process deserve. \r\nRepublican James \"Jim\" Inhofe represents Oklahoma in the United States Senate. He is chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-lays-wreath-suresnes-gravesite-oklahoma-native-veteran-world-war-i", "Lucas Lays Wreath at the Suresnes Gravesite of Oklahoma Native Veteran of World War I", "2018-11-19", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SURESNES, FRANCE  With the world reflecting on the centennial of the Armistice of World War I, U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas (OK-3) laid a wreath this past Saturday at Suresnes American Cemetery and Memorial just outside of Paris, France to honor a fallen Oklahoma native who lost his life in The Great War.\nLucas laid the wreath at the gravesite of Private John A. Butler, who served in the 344th Field Artillery Regiment, 90th Division of the U.S. Army. A Veteran of World War I, he passed away on August 29, 1918. His division was one of the units that did not exist prior to US entry into WWI, and it was formed by creating a cadre of experienced officers and sergeants and filling the ranks with new conscripts. The division was organized in Sep 1917 in Oklahoma, and the first wave of new recruits came from Texas and Oklahoma.\nIn addition to laying the wreath, Lucas also participated in a memorial ceremony at Suresnes Cemetery to honor other Americans who lost their lives in World War I.\nThough a century has now passed since Private Butler and his comrades were laid in eternal rest just outside of Paris, I was proud to honor their bravery and memory today, said Rep. Frank Lucas. Like young American men and women, from every generation, they went off to fight for our freedom and never got to come home. We owe them everything.\nLucas was joined at the ceremony by other members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Representatives were in Paris this past weekend participating in the Franklin Center's and The Ripon Society's 34th Annual Transatlantic Capital to Capital Exchange. Also participating in Saturday's ceremony were former U.S. Reps. Dave Camp (MI-4) and Connie Morella (MD-8). Camp serves as the Chairman of the Franklin Center, and is the former Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Morella serves as the Chairwoman Emeritus of the Franklin Center, and is the former Ambassador to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development from 2003-2007. She also served on the American Battle Monuments Commission, which was created by Congress in 1923 and is the guardian of America's overseas commemorative memorials and cemeteries.\nLocated just outside of Paris, Suresnes is one of those cemeteries. Over 1,500 American Service Members and volunteers who lost their lives in World War I are interred at the cemetery along with 24 unknown dead from World War II. Bronze tablets on the walls of the chapel record the names of 974 soldiers missing in action. Originally serving as a temporary cemetery for the American Hospital of Paris in 1917 toward the end of World War I, General Pershing selected it as the first site of nine permanent American Cemeteries.\nSaturday's ceremony and wreath laying at Suresnes coincided with other events held in France and throughout Europe to mark the centennial of the end of World War I.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/unmistakable-threads", "Unmistakable Threads", "2018-11-16", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Existing throughout the fabric of our society are the unmistakable threads of Native American heritage. In Oklahoma, those threads are numerous and vibrant indeed.\nAs a member of the Chickasaw Nation, I am always proud that the month of November is set aside to draw national attention to the many contributions and significant achievements of tribal nations throughout history. Across the country, there are more than 530 federally-recognized tribes. In our state alone, there are 39 sovereign nations including 11 located right in the Fourth District.\nGrowing up in Oklahoma, I was indeed fortunate to live in a state rich in tribal heritage. But my upbringing greatly influenced the distinct pride I will always carry. Throughout my life, I was surrounded by family members who were actively involved in tribal affairs and who sought to preserve our unique history and culture. My great, great grandfather served as the clerk of the Chickasaw Supreme Court, and my great grandfather was the treasurer of the Chickasaw Nation. My great aunt Te Ata Thompson Fisher was a gifted actress, entertainer and Native American storyteller whose talent took her all over the world; the story of her fascinating life was recently documented in a feature film. And my late mother, Helen Cole, was the first Native American woman ever elected to the Oklahoma State Senate.\nI greatly treasure the example shown by my mother, who passed on the importance of knowing our heritage and our family's compelling history. She taught my brother and me to recognize that it was a remarkable gift to be American, but as Native Americans, we also belonged to a special and unique group of people.\nBecause of my background, I have always considered it a privilege and honor to represent the interests and constitutionally-given rights of tribes in the U.S. House of Representatives. Along with my Oklahoma colleague Markwayne Mullin, I am proud to be one of two Native Americans currently serving in Congress. We will soon be joined by two others, who recently made history as the first Native American women ever elected to Congress. Indeed, this is an impressive achievement for tribes nationwide. \nWhile the federal government has at times had a strained relationship with Indian Country, I am encouraged that efforts have been made to repair and improve it. As a co-chair of the Native American Caucus, I have worked with my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance legislation that respects tribal sovereignty and improves the lives of Native Americans. Earlier this year, I was pleased that the House passed the Tribal Labor Sovereignty Act, which would restore authority previously afforded to tribes and respect their right to operate enterprises and govern effectively on their own lands. This summer, the House also passed legislation that would increase funding for the Indian Health Service, as well as vital programs at the Bureaus of Indian Affairs and Indian Education.\nLong before the United States came to be, tribes greatly influenced the land in which we live. For generations to come, I am confident that America's tribal heritage will only become more vibrant.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-andrew-wheeler", "Inhofe Statement on Andrew Wheeler", "2018-11-16", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Statement on Andrew Wheeler\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 16, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after President Trump announced that he plans to nominate Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler to serve officially as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.\r\nI'm pleased that President Trump announced today he plans to nominate Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler to serve officially as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. Andrew Wheeler is the perfect choice to lead the EPA. He worked for me for 14 years, has an impeccable reputation and the first-hand knowledge and experience to lead the EPA. I have confidence he will continue to advance a deregulatory agenda that protects the environment without placing needless burdens on job creators.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/news-inhofe-praises-selection-of-tinker-for-b-21-sustainment", "NEWS: Inhofe Praises Selection of Tinker for B-21 Sustainment", "2018-11-16", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "NEWS: Inhofe Praises Selection of Tinker for B-21 Sustainment\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 16, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, praised the Air Force's announcement that Tinker Air Force Base has been selected for the B-21 sustainment. Having the B-21 sustainment activities at Tinker Air Force Base will guarantee the mission of Tinker for years to come and is expected to result in additional investments in Tinker's infrastructure and personnel.\r\nTinker has proven once again that innovation and experience plus a supportive military communitypays dividends, Inhofe said. Having the B-21 sustainment at Tinker Air Force Base puts Oklahoma at the forefront of the next generation of military aircraft and solidifies Tinker's rightful place as the nation's premier air logistics facility. This is an honor for Oklahoma and a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our Airmen. \r\nInhofe released a video message praising the announcement. It can be viewed and downloaded for media use here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-statement-on-dod-financial-audit", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on DOD Financial Audit", "2018-11-16", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on DOD Financial Audit\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 16, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement on the release of the Department of Defense financial audit.\r\nThis audit has a lot of good news for the Pentagon and for the American taxpayer. The thorough examination did not find fraudulent use of taxpayer dollars and showed in countless areas across the Department how the DOD is working to strengthen transparency and demonstrate the importance and benefits of investing in our national defense. As expected in a first-ever audit of this magnitude, however, it did identify instances of inaccuraciesnotably in reconciling inventory and vouchers across multiple database systems. Further, it found that the Department has not adequately managed user access for IT systems. The cybersecurity implications of this failure are serious, and the DOD needs to take swift action to ensure that access controls are widely and forcefully implemented.\r\nI want to thank Secretary Mattis and Comptroller Norquist for their work on the audit, and I look forward to having frank and productive conversations with them on how we can implement some of the recommendations and address the inaccuracies going forward to ensure the highest level of accountability to the taxpayer.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-on-the-wall-act-it-is-a-solution-to-the-problem", "Inhofe on the WALL Act: \"it is a solution to the problem\"", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe on the WALL Act: \"it is a solution to the problem\"\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 15, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) spoke on the Senate floor today about the WALL Act, legislation that would fully fund the border wall along the southern border. His legislation is also the first bill that will fund the wall by identifying specific funding sources. \r\n\r\nClick here to view remarks.\r\nRemarks:\r\nMr. President, a few weeks ago, there was a lot of media attention on a caravan from Central America coming up through Mexico making their way to the United States intending to declare asylum or cross the border illegally.\r\nThis is kind of interesting, because people don't realize that we have within our laws, the ability if a person declares asylum, that has to be acted upon. But, that has been a matter of routine and we've heard all about people declaring asylum, getting a court date and not showing up in court, we know that that happens.\r\nIt's really a no-brainer, but nonetheless, it's going on and on and on. In fact, the law does prescribe that anyone coming to this country to seek asylum will be coming to the country through other countries, they must first go to whatever country they go through before coming to the United States.\r\nIn other words, someone coming from Central America is obligated to, if they're coming through Mexico, they should go not to the United States, but to Mexico to seek asylum. Now, asylum is not anything that's very well defined. You know, anyone can come in and say \"My life's in danger, therefore I need to have the opportunity to come across the border into the United States.\r\nWe all know what happens, back in my real life, I spent some 20 years on the border. I was a builder and developer down there. I know how the border works. I know the border agents. I've spent time down there and they have the same solutions and wonder why we don't go ahead and have a solution.\r\nWe are told that these migrants are escaping violence and persecution, but when the media asks or someone asks when someone gets to this country, they say they want to seek the economic opportunity that we, the taxpayers, are paying for in the United States or they want to reunite with their families. You know, I would think that anyone within earshot right now would want to do the same thing for their families. So, this has been going on for a long time.\r\nWhile this caravan has rightfully garnered a lot of attention, it is really a part of a much larger problem.\r\nIn fiscal year 2018 alone, more than 396,000 people were caught illegally crossing our southern border by Customs and Board Protection (CBP) agents  an average of more than 7,500 per week.\r\nThey come because they know our border is porous and, if caught, they can always game our legal system and stay. They've been doing it now for years.\r\nWhile the problems are not new, the caravan brings a renewed spotlight to our vulnerabilities. We have got to secure our borders and we have got to tackle the policies that encourage abuse of our immigration laws.\r\nAfter decades of seeing our border breeched over and over again, voters responded very actively when then-candidate Trump when he was pledging to address our immigration crisis by building build a Wall.\r\nHere is the thing  Walls work. We know they work. We are about the only one who doesn't have walls. DHS has estimated that a wall--and we are talking about the walls that have been in this discussion, proposed by the president, proposed by ,any of us in this body--will deter 90 percent of illegal crossers- 90 percent. So, walls do work, we know they work.\r\nAt nearly 2,000 miles, it will take an estimated $25 billion to fully secure our southern border.\r\nNow, I've heard my colleagues griping about how we can pay for the wall. After all, what we don't need is to grow our deficit or use our tax dollars to pay for it.\r\nThat's why I will be introducing The Wall Act of 2018  to build the wall and secure our border.\r\nIt's very simple: it provides $25 billion for a Wall by eliminating federal benefits going to illegal immigrants.\r\nNow, a lot of people are going to yell and scream and we have a lot of liberals in both bodies of Congress that are going to say \"Oh no, we can't do that.\" Liberals are always great about giving things away. But, the bottom line--I always think of Margaret Thatcher when I think of this--is she said \"socialism is a wonderful thing until we run out of other people's money to give away.\" Well, that's exactly what's happening here right now.\r\nUnder current law, non-citizens who are not allowed to work are able to receive the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)a refundable tax credit.\r\nThey are eligible because applicants do not need to provide work-authorized Social Security Number.\r\nPrior to 2003, the Social Security Administration (SSA) routinely issued SSNs simply to anyone needing drivers' licenses or bank accounts.\r\nWe've stopped that now, but those numbers still exist, and allow for illegal immigrants to obtain SSNs and receive this refundable tax credit and possibly other federal benefits.\r\nMore significantly, this bill that we are introducing would require the tax filers themselves provide a work-authorized Social Security number to receive the refundable Child Tax Credit.\r\nUnder law, filers only have to provide a Social Security number for the dependents they are claiming to receive the tax credit and refundable portion. Now, that's under current law.\r\nAn illegal parent, with legal dependents, at the end of the tax year could get a Child Tax credit refund check that is as much as $1,400 per child and that check comes from Uncle Sam.\r\nBy closing these loopholes, we can save billions of dollars a year.\r\nWe can also save even more taxpayer dollars by ensuring the integrity of other federal welfare programs like SNAP or TANF.\r\nBy mandating all states to use the E-Verify system, we can add an additional layer of integrity to ensure the legal, work-eligible status of benefit recipients.\r\nThese are common sense reforms. You have to ask the question, why would we not do this? Only those legally in this country and eligible for work should be receiving federal benefits intended to get people out of poverty and get them back to work. And, this is something that actually would work and they are all common sense.\r\nThis is one of those things that falls into the category that it makes so much sense, why wouldn't we go ahead and do it? Well, we have the opportunity to go ahead and do it now. And only those who are legally in this country and eligible for work should be receiving federal benefits intended to get people out of poverty and into jobs.\r\nFinally, this bill will increase the minimum penalty for every illegal border crossing. Over the last five years, there were an average of 500,000 illegal border crossings each year.\r\nBy raising the minimum penalty on illegal border crossings, the federal government would raise revenues by as much as $15 billion over 10 year period.\r\nAll of this more than pays for a Wall.\r\nOur President rightly demanded the Wall not be paid for with hard working Americans' tax dollars and my bill fulfills that commitment by not altering a single earned federal benefit for any American citizen or lawful immigrant.\r\nMr. President, to sum it up, I was having a news conference last week and someone said \"well, the president has said that Mexico should pay for it. Even in a way, you could say this fulfills that commitment too because it's being paid for by benefits that would otherwise go to illegals who would not be getting the benefits. So, it's the best of both worlds and it is a solution to the problem.\r\nIt is what American families deserve, but, even more, it is what the hardworking, lawful men and women who are abiding by our immigration process deserve. \r\nSo, that's the bill we are going to be introducing and you will be hearing a lot about because the one thing that people say has not been resolved is how do you come up with $25 billion for a wall? It's easy, it can be done, the figures match and it's the right thing to do for our lawful Americans.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-votes-for-senate-passage-of-coast-guard-reauthorization-", "Inhofe Votes for Senate Passage of Coast Guard Reauthorization", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Votes for Senate Passage of Coast Guard Reauthorization \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 15, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) voted for the passage of the Coast Guard reauthorization and Vessel Incidental Discharge Act yesterday:\r\nOklahoma is an inland state, but that doesn't mean the Coast Guard reauthorization isn't important for our citizens. This bill includes a provision I authored that will support economic activity at our inland ports, like the Port of Catoosa or the Port of Muskogee, by directing the Coast Guard to develop a plan for the acquisition of new inland waterway vessels, which will improve navigation operations and efficiencies along the MKARNs. I'm pleased to vote for this legislation that will empower the Coast Guard to combat trafficking and drug smuggling along our nation's coast. Furthermore, this legislation provides for a predictable national standard for businesses operating on our nation's maritime highwayslike the MKARNSreducing duplicative federal regulations that have held back economic growth.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-urges-colleagues-to-make-significant-reforms-to-the-budget-and-appropriations-process", "Senator Lankford Urges Colleagues to Make Significant Reforms to the Budget and Appropriations Process", "2018-11-15", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.15.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Urges Colleagues to Make Significant Reforms to the Budget and Appropriations Process \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n        \n\t\t\t\t Lankford: I would pray that over Thanksgiving members of this body and of the House determine that $21 trillion worth of debt needs significant reform, not just tweaks around the edges.\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t WASHINGTON, DC  Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today delivered a speech on the Senate floor about his work on the Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Process Reform and the Committee's discussion and votes to finalize recommendations to Congress for ways to improve the inefficient federal and appropriations process.\r\nThe Joint Select Committee was formed under theBipartisan Budget Actwhich passed in February 2018. Under the law, the Joint Select Committee was required to hold public hearings and vote on their findings and legislative recommendations no later than November 30, 2018, and will dissolve by December 31, 2018. The panel includes 16 bipartisan members divided equally between the House and Senate.\r\nLankford also serves on the Senate Committee on Appropriations, which has jurisdiction over all discretionary spending in the Senate. Lankford sits on six subcommittees of the Committee on Appropriations including Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies; Energy and Water Development; Homeland Security; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies; and State-Foreign Operations, and Related Programs. He serves as the Chairman of the Financial Services and General Government Subcommittee.\r\nExcerpts\r\n(Start Time 00:39): Starting in April, these 16 Members of Congress started to meet with these instructions, To significantly reform the budget appropriations process.' The idea was simple. We're getting a bad budget product, we probably need to look at the budget process and to be able to find out what's happening with the process. You see, this process that we have was started in 1974, right after Watergate, Congress created this new process with a budget, with authorizing bills, with appropriating bills, and it would all work together for great transparency. It was a great plan on paper. But since 1974, it has only worked four times. Four times. And year after year, Americans keep saying the same thing: Why isn't the budget working again? Why is everything climbing?' And every year Congress says the same thing, we'll fix it next year, next year, next year, next year. At some point we have to admit it's a bad process and we're not going to get a better product out of it. We have to be able to fix that process.\r\n(Start Time 02:47): So far, the only agreements to do significant reform, remember that's the mandate, the only agreements that have been set so far have been to do budgets every two years rather than every year but still keep reconciliation and appropriation every year, change the membership of the Senate Budget Committee, and then to add a new optional bipartisan budget pathway in case some future Congress has lightning strike and they want to be able to try it. That's the only agreement that we've had so far. I don't know if that sounds like significant budget reform to you, but it doesn't to me.\r\n(Start Time 05:35): When people ask the question, why is the debt increasing suddenly?' and they look at things like the tax bill and say, Is it the tax bill?' No, it's not the tax bill from last year. In fact, the tax bill from last year and the tax changes that were made for this year, there's actually more revenue coming into the federal Treasury this year after the tax changes than there were last year. Let me run that by you again. Everyone seems to want to blame the tax bill on the increasing debt and deficit. There's more revenue coming to the Treasury this year than last year even after the tax cut because the tax cut spurred economic activity, more people have jobs, more people are paying taxes, more people are making more money, they are paying additional taxes. Even with the cut, more revenue is coming in. It is not about the tax cut. It is about a skyrocketing interest on a $21 trillion debt. And there's nothing we can do about that other than begin to address it seriously.\r\n(Start Time 07:19): So let me lay out some of the options I do think fix this. What are some of the hard choices? The first thing that I heard over and over and over again in this budget reform process is that we need to get to a bipartisan process, and I agree. Republicans and Democrats are going to have to look at the debt and deficit and work togetherHere's the simple solution. If you want to avoid government shutdowns, if you want to end all of the end of the year fighting, if you want to make budgeting an actual bipartisan process, there's a simple solution. Make the budget a law. I know that may sound overly simplistic to people outside the body. And many people may think the budget is already a law. But it is not. It isn't in law because then you can create partisan documents and debate it and hash it around for a full year, and then go fight at the very end of the year before the government shutdown happens when there's lots of pressure. The simple way to resolve this at the going up is to make the fight about the budget at the beginning of the year, long before there is a discussion of government shutdowns.\r\n(Start Time 11:10): Basically, we have 12 different bills set aside for spending. We never have a single bill set aside for saving. Let me run that past us again. There is no plan for a bill that is set aside for savings. One of the things I've recommended to make the budget a law to force everyone to have the fight early rather than late, but to add a 13th bill. Do our 12 appropriations bills, but the 13th bill be a bill that is set aside every session of Congress that is focused on what are we going to save? Forcing Congress every session to have to stop and have the debate. How are we going to save money? What are we going to do? Each Congress can decide how much they want to save. But every Congress has to work a little bit on this.\r\n(Start Time 15:00): How about shifting our budgeting and our whole process to the calendar year rather than the fiscal year. Many Americans don't know that Congress runs from October 1 until September 30. Well, guess what? It's the middle of November right now. Our appropriations are not done for this year. They're not done for last year. We've carried them over on something called a continuing resolution, or which lay people say is a CR, just like was done the year before, just like was done the year before, just like was done the year before. You see, Congress actually functions on the calendar year, but we pretend to function on a fiscal year. But it guarantees that every October, November, December, we've got budget chaos as we're trying to figure out how to be able to run the system.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-statement-on-nds-commission-report", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on NDS Commission Report", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on NDS Commission Report\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 14, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, praised the release of the National Defense Strategy Commission report today:\r\n\r\nI want to thank the members of the National Defense Strategy Commission, especially its co-chairs Eric Edelman and Gary Roughead, for the tremendous service they have rendered on behalf of the Congress and the nation. \r\nThe commission's unanimous and bipartisan report makes clear that our nation confronts a stark choice. To address our present national security crisis and restore America's eroding military advantage, we must fully resource and implement the National Defense Strategy. If we fail to do so, the cost will be measured in American lives lost fighting wars that might have been avoided and may very well be lost. \r\nThe 2018 National Defense Strategywith its clear prioritization of strategic competition with China and Russia and its emphasis on a more lethal force and the importance of allies and partnerswas a good start. But we need more than a strategy on paper. America needs a strategy in action. And as the commission's report makes clear: we aren't there yet, and we have a lot of work left to do. \r\nIn particular, I am troubled by the commission's unequivocal assessment that the National Defense Strategy is not adequately resourced, and that our nation is very near the point of strategic insolvency.' I agree with the commission's report that there must be greater urgency and seriousness in funding national defense' in order to ensure we can undertake essential nuclear and conventional modernization while rectifying readiness shortfalls. That is why I believe the $733 billion defense budget originally proposed by President Trump for fiscal year 2020 should be considered a floor, not a ceiling, for funding our troops. \r\nWe have to understand that defending America is our number one priority. As it did during the development of the National Defense Strategy, the Senate Armed Services Committee will seek to work collaboratively with the Department of Defense to achieve its full implementation. It will be a top priority of my chairmanship to properly align defense resource with the National Defense Strategy and ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently and effectively. Because the stakes for our national security are so high, we will not hesitate to use our oversight to hold the Pentagon accountable for results and take corrective action when necessary. \r\nThe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 charged the National Defense Commission with providing Congress an independent review of the National Defense Strategy, which was released earlier this year. The report contains a detailed evaluation of the National Defense Strategy, including issues such as the challenge from China and Russia, the requirement for nuclear and conventional modernization, addressing continuing readiness shortfalls, the importance of U.S. overseas military posture and the need for a timely, consistent, and growing defense budget.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/stillwater-okla-company-receives-epa-grant-through-small-business-innovation-research-program", "Stillwater, Okla., Company Receives EPA Grant Through Small Business Innovation Research Program", "2018-11-14", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Stillwater, Okla., Company Receives EPA Grant Through Small Business Innovation Research Program\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 14, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, praised the Environmental Protection Agency's(EPA) announcementthat Accurate Environmental Laboratories in Stillwater, Okla., will receive part of $1.7 million in funding, through the EPA's Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, that will go to 16 small businesses across the country to develop new technologies that protect the environment while growing the American economy.\r\nI am extremely pleased the Environmental Protection Agency has recognized Stillwater-based Accurate Environmental Laboratories with one of this year's 16 Phase I SBIR grants,Sen. Inhofe said.EPA support will allow this Oklahoma business to participate in the environmental research and technological development that makes our world a better and safer place. Congratulations to Accurate Labs for being recognized for their work on the nature and risk of certain man-made substances and to standardize the sampling processes for those substances.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/honoring-our-veterans", "Honoring Our Veterans", "2018-11-09", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Throughout our history, hundreds of thousands of brave men and women have answered the call to serve in the United States military. For those who volunteer, this choice comes at a cost unlike any other. But it is because of their willing service and sacrifice on our behalf that we get to enjoy the benefits of living in a safe and secure nation. Without question, we owe a constant debt of gratitude to generations of veterans who have faithfully defended our precious freedom.\nOn Veterans Day, we rightly honor those who have selflessly served, but during this year's observance, we also solemnly remember an important marker in history. More than a century has passed since the beginning of the First World War, which is often called the war to end all wars. Those who went into this fight likely expected adventure and newfound freedom--never imagining the extent of what was ahead. Instead, they ended up being involved in the deadliest conflict of all time and an unprecedented catastrophe that has shaped the modern world ever since.\nIt has now been 100 years since the tragic conflict ended through an armistice signed between Allies and Germany on November 11, 1918 at 11 o'clock in the morning. Exactly a year after this peace agreement, Allied nations honored the 10 million military deaths and approximately seven million civilian deaths by remembering the tragedy through Armistice Day. In 1954, President Eisenhower signed into law legislation that expanded the observance to all veterans, veterans' organizations and the entire citizenry (who) will wish to join hands in the common purpose. As a result, Veterans Day rightly recognizes those who served in all past and present conflictsincluding World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War and in the Middle East.\nToday, there are more than 21 million veterans living in the United States, including nearly 66,800 in the Fourth District of Oklahoma. Just as they volunteered to protect our nation both at home and abroad, so do we have a duty to them upon their return from combat. And we should always remember those who did not make it home, showing our support for their grieving families and loved ones in our communities.\nWithout question, promises to our veterans must be kept. Following their honorable service to our country, that fulfilled promise must include quality and reliable care through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Looking back on the work of the current Congress, I am pleased to report that lawmakers worked together in a bipartisan manner to advance several pieces of legislation signed into law, ensuring our veterans receive the benefits they have earned.\nWhile we dedicate special time on Veterans Day to remember the men and women who have shown the utmost patriotism and love of country, we should strive to honor them every day.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-congratulates-oklahoma-companies-for-receiving-dol-hire-vets-award", "Inhofe Congratulates Oklahoma Companies for Receiving DOL HIRE Vets Award", "2018-11-09", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Congratulates Oklahoma Companies for Receiving DOL HIRE Vets Award\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 9, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tYesterday, U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), a U.S. Army veteran and Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, congratulated Oklahoma companies Americom Technologies Group, LLC and Mayhew Technology Solutions LLC for receiving the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans (HIRE Vets) Medallion Program Demonstration award from the Department of Labor.\r\nI am proud of Owasso-based Americom Technologies Group, LLC and Edmond-based Mayhew Technology Solutions LLC for receiving theHonoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans (HIRE Vets) Medallion Program Demonstration award,Inhofe said. Businesses should make hiring and retaining veterans a priority and these two Oklahoma companies have done just thatI am happy to commend them and I look forward to their future success.\r\nApplications for the 2019 HIRE Vets Medallion Program will open to employers on January 31, 2019. For more about the HIRE Vets Medallion Program and Award, please visit www.HireVets.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-praises-trumps-executive-order-on-asylum", "Inhofe Praises Trump's Executive Order on Asylum", "2018-11-09", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Praises Trump's Executive Order on Asylum\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 9, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) praised the President's executive order today that would require individuals to declare asylum only at ports of entry. Currently, unauthorized immigrants are able to declare asylum when apprehended by Border Patrol after crossing the border unlawfully.\r\nThe asylum process should be for those who truly need itnot individuals using it after they are caught illegally crossing the border in an attempt to avoid deportation. Smugglers and illegal aliens have attempted to use false claims of asylum to gain entry into the United States, are released pending a court date, then never show up for their court dateremaining illegally in the country. I'm pleased President Trump is taking this step to end the abuse of the asylum process. I look forward to working with him on other components of immigration reform, like my Asylum Abuse Reduction Act and building the wall.\r\nLast week, Sen. Inhofe announced the WALL Act, legislation that would fully fund the border wall by closing loopholes that allow illegal immigrants to receive federal benefits. In August, Sen. Inhofe also unveiled the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act that would strengthen the integrity of the immigration process by requiring migrants to declare asylum at embassies or consulates in Mexico or Canada before entering the United States.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://lucas.house.gov/press-release/lucas-announces-run-science-committee-ranking-member-position", "Lucas Announces Run for Science Committee Ranking Member Position", "2018-11-08", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Frank Lucas", "L000491", "lucas.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Lucas Announces Run for Science Committee Ranking Member Position                                           \n              Nov 8, 2018      \t\t        \t    \n      \t            \n                    \n                                            \n          \n        \n        \n            \n    \n  \n    \n    \n    Washington, D.C.  Today, Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-3) announced he will run for Ranking Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Congressman Lucas released the following statement:\nI have recently begun informing my colleagues in the House GOP Conference that I intend to run to be the Ranking Republican at the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in the 116th Congress. As the current Vice-Chairman of the Science Committee, I look forward to discussing my candidacy and vision for the committee with my colleagues. I will remain an active member of the House Financial Services and Agriculture committees in the next Congress and look forward to serving on those committees under the leadership of Chief Deputy Whip McHenry and Chairman Conaway. Mike is working diligently to get our farmers and ranchers a new Farm Bill before the end of the year, and Patrick will do an outstanding job as Ranking Republican at Financial Services.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-attorney-general-sessions", "Inhofe Statement on Attorney General Sessions", "2018-11-07", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Statement on Attorney General Sessions\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 7, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after Attorney General Jeff Sessions submitted his resignation at President Trump's request.\r\nAs Attorney General, Jeff Sessions served America well by standing up for our law-enforcement officers and tackling key issues, including strengthening immigration enforcement and combating the opioid epidemic. He is a man of integrity, who used his leadership to uphold the rule of law each and every day.\r\nBut more importantly than that, Jeff Sessions is one of my closest personal friends and I hope he'll have more time with his grandkids.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-congratulates-oklahomans-selected-for-the-400-years-of-african-american-history-commission", "Senator Lankford Congratulates Oklahomans Selected for the 400 Years of African-American History Commission", "2018-11-06", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Lankford", "L000575", "www.lankford.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "11.06.18\n\t\t\t Senator Lankford Congratulates Oklahomans Selected for the 400 Years of African-American History Commission \n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tOKLAHOMA CITY, OKSenator James Lankford (R-OK) today issued the following statement congratulating two Oklahomans, Mr. Hannibal Johnson and Dr. Myron Pope, on their selection for the 15-member, 400 Years of African-American History Commission that will help coordinate the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans to the English colonies in 1619. Established through bipartisan legislation on January 8, 2018, the Commission, under the Department of Interior, will plan and coordinate activities throughout the US to recognize and highlight 400 years of vital African-American contributions to our nation. The Commission is expected to begin meeting in late 2018 and will help encourage civic, patriotic, historical, educational, artistic, religious, economic, and other organizations to come together to participate in anniversary activities.\r\nMr. Johnson and Dr. Pope will undoubtedly provide stellar academic and personal perspectives to this exemplary panel of experts as they fulfill the Commission's goal of telling the full and honest story of African Americans and their 400-year history in the Americas, said Lankford. This 400-year anniversary, as well as the 100thanniversary of theTulsa Race Riots coming up in 2021, offer our nation an opportunity to remember our nation's deplorable history of slavery, separation, and violence while we continue the work toward generational change and equality for every American. These moments of reflection help us acknowledge our past so we can look ahead and work on ways we can bring families, churches, businesses, academic institutions, and communities together. I look forward to reading the work of my fellow Oklahomans, Mr. Johnson and Dr. Pope, as they work with the Commission and propose ways we can partner to highlight the past achievements and help solve challenges still facing African Americans in our nation today.\r\nMr. Hannibal Johnson is an attorney, author, and independent consultant who specializes in diversity and inclusion/cultural competence issues and non-profit governance, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mr. Johnson plays a very active role in Oklahoma to raise awareness of and honor the victims of the 1921 Tulsa Race Riot and to study its impact on our state and nation. Notably, he authored Black Wall Street: From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa's Historic Greenwood District, one of the preeminent historical works on the important role Tulsa's Greenwood District has played in the national African American identity. \r\nDr. Myron Pope is the Vice President for Student Affairs at the University of Central Oklahoma and serves as an Adjunct Instructor for the Department of African and African-American Studies at the University of Oklahoma and as an Advisory Board Member for the Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools. \r\n###\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t  \n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t \n\t\t\n\t\t\tPrint\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tEmail\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTweet\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t \n\t\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n    \n\t\n\t\n    \n    \n    \n    \t\n    \t\n\t    \t  \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \n\t\t    \tPrevious Article", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1365", "Rep. Mullin Honored with Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence", "2018-11-02", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) has awarded Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) the NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence. The award is based on his votes in the 115th Congress on issues that are critical to manufacturing in the United States.\r\nIn Oklahoma and across America, manufacturers are creating jobs, investing in communities and raising wages. That's a direct result of Congressman Mullin's support for policies that have strengthened manufacturing and created opportunities for America's manufacturing workers,said NAM Senior Vice President of Policy and Government Relations Aric Newhouse. The NAM is proud to stand with lawmakers like Congressman Mullin who understand manufacturing's critical contributions to our economy and are working actively to advance the manufacturing agenda.\r\nIt is an honor to be named a Champion of Manufacturing by NAM,said Mullin.Oklahoma's manufacturing companies employ over 130,000 individuals who help produce over $17 billion in output annually from manufacturing. Alongside our efforts in Congress, employment in Oklahoma's manufacturing industry has increased 3.3% percent since President Trump took office. I am committed to continuing my work in Congress and with President Trump to allow manufacturers to create more jobs and stimulate local economies in Oklahoma.\r\nKey votes included in the Voting Record are selected by small, medium and large manufacturing executives who serve on the NAM's Key Vote Advisory Committee. Additional information on the NAM Award for Manufacturing Legislative Excellence can be foundhere.\r\nThe National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employsmore than12 million men and women, contributes $2.25trillion to the U.S. economy annually, has the largest economic impact of any major sector and accounts formore than three-quartersof private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the Manufacturers or to follow us on Shopfloor, Twitter and Facebook, please visitwww.nam.org.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1366", "Round-Up: Mullin Held Opioid Conference in Claremore", "2018-11-02", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Markwayne Mullin", "M001190", "mullin.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This week, Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) hosted an opioid conference to celebrate the signing of the federal opioid legislation, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6). The conference concluded a series of roundtables that Congressman Mullin has facilitated since 2016 and briefed the community on the new resources made available to them through the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act.\r\nWhen we started hosting opioid roundtables in 2016, Oklahoma's communities, particularly right here in Claremore, stepped up to the plate,said Mullin. At our first roundtable in Claremore, community leaders and representatives brought problems and ideas to the table. Two years later, I am proud to say that together, we have found solutions at the federal level that will give our communities the resources they need to combat the crisis next door.\r\nFOX 23:For two years, Congressman Markwayne Mullin has hosted roundtable meetings about the [opioid] epidemic. From the roundtable to the Oval Office, Mullin helped form the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, signed by the president last week.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nNEWS ON 6:For two years we didn't waste your time. For two years, we have a whole list of accomplishments that we were able to accomplish because you were persistent in being in these meetings and staying involved,said Mullin.\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nParticipants and speakers at the opioid conference included:\r\nLeah Ledford, Admissions & Intake Coordinator, Tiger Mountain Recovery Center\r\nRyan Walker, Walgreens Healthcare Supervisor for the Tulsa area\r\nVonnie Hampel, National Association of Chain Drugstores (NACDS)\r\nJoni Lyon, Project Director, Cherokee Nation\r\nNathan T. Billy, Deputy Director, Behavioral Health, Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority\r\nChief Craig Williams, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics\r\nBryan Day, CEO, 12&12, Inc.\r\nDuanne Pearson, Premier, Inc.\r\nTo learn more about Congressman Mullin's ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis, clickHERE.\r\n\r\nTo learn more about the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6), clickHERE.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-november-2018", "Books I'm Reading: November 2018", "2018-11-02", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "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 Presidents of Warby Michael Beschloss", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/confronting-opioid-epidemic", "Confronting the Opioid Epidemic", "2018-11-02", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Tom Cole", "C001053", "cole.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In too many communities across the nation, opioid addiction has destroyed and claimed lives, causing unexpected grief and loss for families. Without question, opioid abuse is a very real and rampant health crisis and one that is impacting individuals from all walks of life. In response to this widespread problem, I am encouraged that Congress offered solutions to combat the issue through a comprehensive piece of legislation recently signed into law by the president.\nAccording to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than 115 people fall victim to opioid overdose each day. In fact, addiction to once well-intended prescription medications like oxycodone, codeine and morphineas well as illicit use of heroin and fentanylhave led to the deaths of more than 42,000 Americans in just one year. The unfortunate imprint on our own state is heartbreaking; in 2016, there were 813 Oklahomans tragically lost to overdose. Along with and likely due in part to the rapid rise in opioid misuse, the nation's overall life expectancy has seen a disturbing decline in recent years as well.\nEspecially since opioid addiction exists in mostif not allAmerican communities, confronting the epidemic has never been a partisan undertaking in Congress. And I am pleased that H.R. 6, the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Act, demonstrates a truly bipartisan effort. Rightly so, the historic legislation reflects the concern shared by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and the desire in both chambers to effectively confront and end this national health crisis.\nMade up of several bills introduced throughout this Congress to prevent and end the cycle of opioid abuse, H.R. 6 not only addresses symptoms of the problem but confronts underlying causes of the crisis. For those currently struggling with addiction, the legislation improves treatment and recovery options and ensures help is more readily available. To prevent addiction from taking root at all, the legislation supports non-addictive opioid alternatives for pain management and discourages the disturbingly high opioid prescription rate through better drug monitoring. The legislation also supports safer communities by empowering law enforcement to keep harmful drugs from coming in and by combating illicit use of synthetic drugs like fentanyl, which is easily and often lethal.\nIn addition to this important effort, recent legislation to fund the government reflected the same commitment to confronting the opioid crisis. As part of a two-bill appropriations package that maintained many priorities first advanced by the subcommittee I chair, lawmakers directed $6.7 billion toward treatment and recovery programs for those battling substance abuse. This included a substantial increase for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. I am proud that the president signed this legislation into law at the end of September.\nWhile it takes time to change the course of a national health crisis, I am encouraged that Congress and the president have taken critical first steps in slowing down the opioid epidemic. I believe that we can and will eliminate its hold on individuals, families, communities and our country.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=644", "Rep. Russell Welcomes Kratos Defense to Oklahoma", "2018-11-02", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Steve Russell", "R000604", "russell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Oklahoma City, OK  On Friday, U.S. Rep. Steve Russell participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Kratos Defense & Security's newest aircraft production facility in Oklahoma City. \r\nKratos is a company that's always innovating and producing cutting-edge technology for our military, Russell said. Their vision and expertise in unmanned aerial systems will allow our warriors to have the most effective tools they need to keep our country safe.\r\nKratos is the industry leader in high-performance, low-cost jet aerial target systems supporting the U.S. military, including the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Army. The company provides advanced aircraft products to protect national security, all at an affordable cost.\r\nOklahoma City's 100,000 square-foot facility will produce high performance, unmanned aerial drone systems for tactical and target threat representation purposes. Kratos selected Oklahoma because of the state's patriotism and motivated workforce. Led by Russell, other members of the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, also encouraged the company to select Oklahoma for its newest facility.\r\nKratos expects to hire at least 350 employees from Oklahoma over the next five years.\r\nI am glad Kratos recognizes the value of Oklahoma and the Fifth District. We are fortunate and honored to be the site of their latest expansion, which will undoubtedly have a significant and positive impact on helping our military protect our national security, Russell said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=643", "Rep. Russell Celebrates Local Health Care Solutions in Oklahoma City", "2018-11-01", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Steve Russell", "R000604", "russell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Thursday, U.S. Rep. Steve Russell continued to highlight local health centers providing quality care for Oklahomans at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Southern Oaks Learning and Wellness Center in Oklahoma City.\r\nAccessibility to health care is one of the biggest obstacles many people in our community face, Russell said. Providing medical services and teaching people how to live healthy lives are two invaluable tools to promote health and wellness in our community.\r\nRussell attended the grand opening for the Oklahoma City-County South Oaks Learning and Wellness Center, a 25,000 square-foot facility providing health care for those living in the zip code with the lowest health outcomes in Oklahoma City.\r\nSouthern Oaks Learning and Wellness Center will provide a broad array of services, improve the quality of health care and meet the needs of Oklahomans.\r\nThe center will offer clinical services like immunizations, women's health services and community health services and will also be home to a training kitchen which teach individuals how to cook nutritious meals on a limited budget. The center will also provide a recreation element, including a walking trail and sports fields.\r\nFinding solutions to provide accessible, affordable healthcare is one of our biggest challenges in Congress but I am confident these health centers put us on the right track, Russell said. We appreciate the hard work of so many such as Gary Cox, former Councilman Pete White, Mayor Holt, Erika Lucas and those at the Oklahoma County Health Department. Local health centers like Southern Oaks are essential to expand options and provide quality care for Oklahomans. I am glad to see this center open its doors today and am looking forward to continuing my work to improve health care for our community.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-announces-bill-to-fully-fund-border-wall", "Inhofe Announces Bill to Fully Fund Border Wall", "2018-11-01", "2018", "2018-11", "Republican", "House", "OK", "James Inhofe", "I000024", "www.inhofe.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Inhofe Announces Bill to Fully Fund Border Wall\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 1, 2018\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tU.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) announced today that he was introducing the WALL Act, legislation that would fully fund the border wall along the southern border. His legislation is also the first bill that will fund the wall by identifying specific funding sources.\r\nWe need to build the wall along the southern borderPresident Trump has called for the wall and I agree. As a former builder and developer in south Texas I know border security is national security and we need to do more to deter the growing numbers of unauthorized immigrants coming across our borders. That's why I've outlined specific ways to fund the border wall by assessing penalties on illegal immigration and closing loopholes that allow unauthorized immigrants to receive federal benefits. We're going to build the wall through new sources of funds by protecting the integrity of hardworking American citizens' tax dollars.\r\nInhofe's legislation will fully fund the President's $25 billion border wall while providing specific ways to pay for it: \r\nRequire a work-authorized Social Security Number (SSN) to claim refundable tax credits, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Child Tax Credit: \r\n \r\nCurrently only the child needs a SSN, not the parent benefiting from the refundable child tax credit. My bill would require the parent to have a valid work-eligible social security number.\r\nBefore 2003, the Social Security Agency did not distinguish between work-eligible and non-work eligible SSNs. Therefore, there are individuals benefiting from the EITC they are not authorized to receive because they are non-work eligible.\r\n \r\nRequire welfare applicants (food stamps, TANF, HUD, etc) to verify citizenship: \r\n \r\nCurrently someone only needs to declare citizenship and provide a SSN to receive some of these benefits.\r\nInhofe's bill requires states verify citizenship prior to granting benefits using E-verify and require a work-authorized SSN for eligibility.\r\n \r\nIncreasing the minimum fines on illegal border crossers.\r\nThis legislation is designed to complement the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act that Sen. Inhofe introduced in August, legislation that will address immigration loopholes to improve the integrity of the asylum process. The United States experienced a 234 percent increase in asylum applications from 2014 to 2016, generating a backlog in our immigration courts. That number is expected to increase.\r\nThe Asylum Abuse Reduction Act would: \r\nRequire migrants declare asylum at our embassies/consulates in Mexico or Canada before entering the United States:\r\n \r\nCurrently, migrants who cross the border illegally and declare asylum are released pending credible fear screenings and other legal procedures, but rarely show up for proceedings  never completing the asylum process.\r\nThe dramatic increase in asylum claims, as urged by smugglers, creates a huge strain on our resources, a backlog in the immigration process and most migrants don't show up for their court date.\r\nThe Asylum Abuse Reduction Act requires individuals seeking asylum to have their preliminary credible fear screening at an embassy or consulate outside the United States prior to being considered for admittance for asylum purposes.\r\n \r\nCreate a criminal bench warrant for immigrants that have failed to appear for immigration court:\r\n \r\nCurrently, when illegal immigrants fail to show up for court, their information is not entered into police databases.\r\nWith Inhofe's bill, if migrants don't appear for court, they will be given a bench warrant so if they are stopped for an unrelated offense, like speeding, there will be a warrant for them in the system for violating immigration law.\r\n \r\nCreate a pilot program for alternatives to detention: \r\n \r\nThe Flores decision says that we can't detain illegal immigrants with children or families for more than 20 days. Currently, that usually means they are released pending trial  and then fail to appear.\r\nInhofe's bill establishes a pilot program that would allow families tobe released to a qualified organization, contracted with the federal government, to ensure migrants comply with immigration proceedings.\r\n \r\nRead more about the Asylum Abuse Reduction Act here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=642", "Rep. Steve Russell, Oklahoma Delegation Meet with Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue", "2018-10-31", "2018", "2018-10", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Steve Russell", "R000604", "russell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Oklahoma City, OK  U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue met with members of the Oklahoma congressional delegation in Oklahoma City on Wednesday.\r\nOur farmers, producers and cattlemen promote a safe and healthy food supply in Oklahoma, Russell said. Not only do they feed our country but they also provide thousands of jobs to keep our economy strong.\r\nOklahoma ranks fourth in the country for wheat production and fifth nationwide in beef and cattle production. The state had over 77,000 farms in 2017, which generated $6.2 billion in revenue.\r\n\r\nPerdue and members of the delegation, including Rep. Steve Russell (R-OK) toured the Oklahoma National Stockyards Company and met with students from the Future Farmers of America and 4-H Club.\r\nSec. Perdue is perhaps the most qualified agricultural secretary our nation has had and it was wonderful to meet with him today, Russell said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://russell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=641", "Rep. Steve Russell Speaks to Industry Leaders at Oklahoma Aerospace Forum", "2018-10-30", "2018", "2018-10", "Republican", "House", "OK", "Steve Russell", "R000604", "russell.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Oklahoma City, OK  Congressman Steve Russell (R-OK) gave the closing remarks at the first Oklahoma AerospaceForum in Oklahoma City on Tuesday. Russell spoke about the future of the aerospace and aviation industries, which are critical to the region's economy and workforce.\r\nOklahoma's aerospace industry is thriving, Russell said. Aerospace companies recognize the potential in our state and it's important we keep supporting this industry which provides so many jobs to Oklahomans and helps boost our state's economy.\r\nAt the forum, Russell announced he will form a congressional advisory task force to advise how Congress can continue to promote and grow aerospace in Oklahoma and nationwide.\r\nAerospace is an important industry to Oklahoma, especially in Oklahoma's Fifth Congressional District. More than 230 aerospace firms are located in the Oklahoma City region. These firms produce nearly $5 billion in goods and services locally and employ nearly 40,000 people in the region.\r\nOklahoma has routinely been recognized as an assetforaviation companies. Some of the biggest names in the aviation industry have operations in Oklahoma City, including Boeing Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, Lockheed Martin Aircraft, Northrup Grumman, General Electric Aviation and AAR Aircraft Services.\r\nTheforum featured many prominent aerospace officials from across the country, including NASA Administrator andformer Oklahoma Congressman Jim Bridenstine.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 789, "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 \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "OK", "p1": "2018"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 789, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018&party=Republican", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 789, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "OK", "label": "OK", "count": 789, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2018", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018", "results": [{"value": "2018", "label": "2018", "count": 789, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=OK", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2018-10-30,https~3A~2F~2Frussell~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D641", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=OK&year=2018&_next=2018-10-30%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Frussell~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D641&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 175.80602737143636, "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"}