Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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521 rows where chamber = "House", state = "OK" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/looking-back-look-forward | Looking Back to Look Forward | 2016-12-27 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | This past year was one of great change for America. After eight years of President Obama, the American people elected perhaps the most unorthodox candidate in our nation’s history. The nominating process for both parties was unlike any we have ever seen. The Democrats nearly nominated a self proclaimed Socialist before settling on the establishment front runner, Hillary Clinton. And the Republicans nominated a candidate who had never sought or held elected office before. And that candidate prevailed in the election by appealing to a constituency that Democrats had come to take for granted - the blue collar working class. Just exactly how this came to be will be a subject of debate and speculation for years to come. What is not debatable is the fact that Americans have become uneasy and uncomfortable with politics and politicians as usual. In the past several years, our nation has faced an enemy unlike any we’ve had before. Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, we became painfully aware of the growing Islamic terror network. More recently, the Islamic terrorist group ISIS has expanded their sphere of influence by destabilizing the Middle East and launching brazen attacks throughout Europe. As the United States and our allies have stepped up our traditional lines of defense, we have also had to take measures to defend ourselves from cyber terrorism. Unfortunately, radical Islamic terrorism will likely be a generational challenge for the United States and our allies, and will necessarily be a top priority for President Trump and his administration. On the domestic front, our new President will face numerous challenges as well. Eight years of President Obama’s government by executive order have taken their toll on the American economy. From Obama Care to the Labor Department’s onerous overtime rules, the economy has been smothered by excessive regulations and needless rules. Ironically, many of these rules and regulations were put into place through President Obama’s reliance on executive orders intended … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-releases-video-wishing-oklahomans-a-merry-christmas- | Inhofe Releases Video Wishing Oklahomans a Merry Christmas | 2016-12-25 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Releases Video Wishing Oklahomans a Merry Christmas Sunday, December 25, 2016 TULSA – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), today released a video wishing Oklahomans everywhere a merry Christmas. “I want to take a moment to think about what’s really important, our lord and savior Jesus Christ. Christmas is a day that serves as a symbol and declaration of peace on earth and goodwill toward all,” Inhofe says in the video. “I also want to send our troops overseas, in harm’s way and fighting for our freedoms, an especially warm Christmas greeting. I am thankful to you and your families for the sacrifices you are making. Merry Christmas to you all and merry Christmas Oklahoma.” Click Here to Watch the Video | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-us-abstention-un-security-council-anti-israel-resolution | Cole Statement on U.S. Abstention on UN Security Council Anti-Israel Resolution | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Norman, OK – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the United States abstained from vetoing its vote in allowing the passage of the United Nations Security Council resolution to condemn Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank. "This action was a shameful abandonment of a long time ally that has been routinely berated and attacked by the hostile majority in the UN General Assembly," said Cole. "The action was made worse by Ambassador Powers’ gratuitous insults to the current government of Israel." "One wonders if this action was a last calculated slap in the face to Israel by the outgoing Obama Administration. While claiming to support Israel, the Obama Administration has put Israeli security at risk with its flawed Iranian nuclear deal,” continued Cole. "And it is the Obama Administration that has repeatedly clashed with the current government of Israel over diplomatic and security issues." "Thank goodness there will soon be a new president in the White House and a new administration in leadership that will work with, rather than against Israel. Given that reality, this abstention should be seen as an act of pique by the outgoing Obama Administration rather than a reflection of U.S. policy going forward." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/icymi-steve-russell-c-span-recaps-first-term-congress | ICYMI Steve Russell on C-SPAN - Recaps First Term in Congress | 2016-12-23 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Del City, OK – Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) spoke with C-SPAN’s Bill Scanlan to talk about the importance of checks and balances, bipartisanship in Congress, and his biggest accomplishments in his first term in office. On Checks and Balances in Government: Congressman Russell: “Our republic has seen the pendulum swing to government and the some rare occasions, all the legislative branches being held by the same political party. We saw long stretches of a time in the 1930's and 1940's period. I think as we look at it, our republic is pretty resilient. We have a judiciary branch, I think we have to respect the judicial branch as an equal branch of government. A lot of time we are unhappy with decisions that are made for one reason or another, but it just plays into the checks and balance system. These appointments will be important that the will of the American people has a chance to influence those checks and balances.” On Bipartisanship: Congressman Russell: “I have a handwritten note from President Obama. I take great pride in that. We saw eye to eye on a couple of things, many things we did not. One thing I learned, you can always find common ground when people are in conflict. There is always something they agree to focus on. You try not to highlight the differences if you can.” On Accomplishments: Congressman Russell: “We have certainly become known for our targeting of waste, continuing Oklahoma's delegation legacy from the great Dr. Tom Coburn, and we have taken that mantle and honored to do it and we have also turned that into true reform speaking of bipartisanship, working with Matt Cartwright, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, he and I worked as cosponsors of the MEGABYTE Act, which estimated will save $4 billion just in software licensure reform. Well even in this town, $4 billion is a real money that gets people's attention. So, you can always find overlapping ground.” CLICK HERE for video. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/in-the-news/rep-russell-releases-report-showing-139-billion-gov-t-waste | Rep. Russell Releases Report Showing $139 Billion in Govt Waste | 2016-12-22 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | (CNSNews.com) – Rep. Steve Russell (R- Okla.) released the sixth installment of his ongoing Waste Watch series on Monday, showing 10 instances of government waste totaling around $139 billion in taxpayer money. Some of the spending items detailed in the report include a Pentagon Task Force that spent $150 million on lavish, rented villas in Afghanistan with flat-screen TVs in each room; $356 million on a computer system that does not work; $34 million spent by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to introduce Afghans to soybeans; and $47,530 on “elegant” bicycle shelters for the National Institutes of Health. The Waste Watch Christmas Edition states that in Fiscal Year 2015 the federal government made “approximately $137 billion in improper payments,” which were spread throughout various departments and programs. It also listed several other wasteful projects totaling about $2 billion, for the total of $139 billion. “Overall the error rate for 2015 was reported to be 4.39 percent,” the report explains. “[A] 4% error rate may seem relatively insignificant, given the amount of payments that are made by our federal government on an annual basis, [but] it adds up to billions of taxpayer dollars misspent and wasted every year.” According to the Government Accountability Office’s (GAO) percentage breakdown of the root-causes of the improper payments for FY 2015, “33 percent of the improper payments were made with insufficient documentation to determine the accuracy of payment. “An example of this is the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) paying for a foot surgery for an individual despite not having their medical history.” Russell’s Waste Watch also highlighted $150 million spent by the Pentagon’s Task Force for Business and Stability Operations (TFBSO) which, according to the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), “on rented ‘villas’ for their staff in Afghanistan.” “TFBSO spent 20 percent of their budget on these villas,” the report notes, “which were required to be furnishe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/two-years-accomplishments | Two Years of Accomplishments | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | When the 114th Congress began its session in January of 2015, many Americans had concerns about the direction of our nation, and the job approval of their Congressional leaders was appropriately low. After so many years of onerous executive overreach, House Republicans faced many challenges in the fight to block President Obama’s liberal agenda. There were many times that House Republicans have come close to making common sense conservative progress, only to be shot down by the president’s veto pen. Fortunately, our vision to help America get back to the agenda of opportunity and independence finally has a real chance to come true. We have much to be proud of from the 114th Congress, and I hope we can continue this trend through the leadership of the new Trump Administration. One of the first pieces of crucial legislation passed through the House in the 114th Congress was H.R. 2, the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA). This legislation permanently replaced the Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate that threatened providers’ reimbursement rates almost yearly since its inception. Instead of an arbitrary system of price controls which Congress waived yearly, the new payment reforms in MACRA should make meaningful changes so that providers are fairly reimbursed. While much more needs to be done to control the explosion of healthcare costs, it should not be done in a way that discourages our providers from caring for those most in need. Congress has a fundamental obligation to our military and supporting them should be a bipartisan endeavor. That’s why one of our most successful pieces of legislation helped renew our commitment to our veterans. We passed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act last year, as well as the Veterans Entrepreneurship Act of 2015. Both of these bills help our veterans tremendously to ensure they have the resources they need for mental health care, and to give them the assistance they need in the next chapter of their lives. We’ve also passed numerous Veterans … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-leads-congressional-delegation-trip-to-turkey-kosovo-and-south-korea | Senator Lankford Leads Congressional Delegation Trip to Turkey, Kosovo and South Korea | 2016-12-20 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.16 Senator Lankford Leads Congressional Delegation Trip to Turkey, Kosovo and South Korea OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today returned to the United States after leading a congressional delegation trip to Turkey, Kosovo, and South Korea. Lankford traveled abroad from December 14 to December 20 and was joined by Congressmen Steve Russell (OK-05) and Markwayne Mullin (OK-02). The purpose of the trip was to visit deployed Oklahoma National Guard troops in Kosovo, and meet with foreign leaders and military personnel in Turkey and South Korea regarding regional security matters, including the fight against ISIS. As instability around the world rises, it is as important as ever for America to project strength and advocate for freedom and democracy internationally, said Lankford. This trip fortified my belief that America is the greatest nation on earth and that we have a responsibility to advocate for peace, religious freedom, and human rights around the world. It was an honor to visit and thank the Oklahoma National Guard troops in Kosovo for serving to protect our freedom overseas. Kosovars are grateful for our presence there, as well as our defense of their new nation and freedoms. This trip really showed the good that America does across the world. Ankara, Turkey and Incirlik Air Base: In Turkey, Lankford, Russell and Mullin met with American Ambassador John R. Bass and other Embassy officials to discuss Turkey's political landscape, handling of refugees, relations with Syria, and the fight against ISIS. Col. John Walker, along with Ms. Linda Specht from the US Consulate, hosted the Members for a series of briefings on air operations and personnel and base security. They visited the Office of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to discuss Syria, Iraq, Israel, and United States-Turkish cooperation. They also met Assistant Justice Minister Bilal Ucar to advocate for the release of Andrew Brunson, a pastor arrested in October on unclear charges. Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo: A… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/139-billion-lavish-afghan-villas-elegant-bicycle-shelters-unfinished | $139+ Billion on Lavish Afghan Villas, Elegant Bicycle Shelters, an Unfinished Slaughterhouse and More | 2016-12-19 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Del City, OK – Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5), a member of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee, has released the next installment of his ongoing Waste Watch series. The Christmas Edition for 2016 highlights 10 items of government waste, totaling almost $140 billion dollars in taxpayer funds. Some of the items include how the Department of Defense spent $1.5 million dollars on a slaughterhouse in Afghanistan while only completing 10 percent of the project; $150 million on lavish rented villas in Afghanistan with flat-screen TVs for each room and many other amenities; $47,530 on elegant bicycle shelters for the National Institutes of Health; and $137 billion on payments to the wrong people, in the wrong amount, for the wrong reasons. Congressman Russell said about his Waste Watch series, “It never ceases to amaze me the amount of waste the federal government produces. A lot of these instances could have been prevented with some common sense, and I hope that we can continue to change the culture.” Through his first term in Congress, Congressman Russell highlighted nearly a quarter trillion dollars in government waste with Waste Watch. Waste Watch No. 6: December 2016Waste Watch No. 5: September 2016 Waste Watch No. 4: February 2016 Waste Watch No. 3: October 2015 Waste Watch No. 2: July 2015 Waste Watch No. 1: April 2015 ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-obama-signs-international-religious-freedom-bill-co-sponsored-by-senator-lankford | President Obama Signs International Religious Freedom Bill Co-Sponsored by Senator Lankford | 2016-12-17 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.16 President Obama Signs International Religious Freedom Bill Co-Sponsored by Senator Lankford WASHINGTON, DC On Friday, President Obama signed the Frank R. Wolf International Religious Freedom Act, a bill co-sponsored by Senator James Lankford (R-OK). The law aims to strengthen the United States' effort to combat persecution of religious minorities around the world. Religious freedom is more than an American right; it is a human right, said Lankford. The Frank Wolf International Religious Freedom Act is needed to help prevent the persecution of religious minorities around the world, and I am pleased that the President has signed it into law. As a world leader for freedom and the protection of basic human rights, the United States should take every opportunity to advocate for people to think, believe, and act according to their religious belief, whether they belong to a minority or majority religion. The House of Representatives passed this bill (HR 1150) on December 13 and the Senate on December 10. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) was the lead sponsor of the bill in the Senate and Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) sponsored the House version of the bill. The bill is named after former Rep. Frank Wolf (R-VA), who was the co-chair of the Congressional Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, a bipartisan commission that studies and advocates for international human rights. Mr. Wolf is now Chair of Religious Freedom at Baylor University, and he is also a Distinguished Senior Fellow of the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, an international religious freedom advocacy group. In addition to addressing persecution, the bill's overall focus is to ensure that advancing and protecting religious freedom around the world is a fundamental part of the foreign policy objectives of the United States. The Frank R. Wolf International Religious Freedom Act: Elevates the Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom so he reports directly to the Secretary of State; Calls for the integration of international religi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=453 | Mullin Supports Nomination of Ryan Zinke for Secretary of the Interior | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Mullin Supports Nomination of Ryan Zinke for Secretary of the Interior f t # e Washington, December 16, 2016 Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement regarding the nomination of Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT- At Large) to the Secretary of the Interior by President-elect Donald Trump: “During his time in the House, Congressman Ryan Zinke served the people of Montana admirably,” Mullin said. “With Congressman Zinke as Secretary of the Interior, I am certain that our public lands, natural resources, and those who seek to enjoy them, will benefit greatly.” “Much like Oklahoma, Montana has a deep Native American culture and focus on tribal sovereignty. Congressman Zinke understands the importance of tribal land and the protections extended to those who live on it,” Mullin added. “His successful track record of managing and conserving public land during his service on the House Committee on Natural Resources, his time in the Montana Senate, and his more than 20 years of experience as a Navy Seal make Congressman Zinke particularly qualified to continue his service to our nation as the next U.S. Secretary of the Interior.” f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-letter_-december-16 | Lankford Letter - December 16 | 2016-12-16 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.16.16 Lankford Letter - December 16 CLICK HERE for the December 16, 2016 Lankford Letter. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-nomination-congressman-ryan-zinke-secretary-interior | Cole Supports Nomination of Congressman Ryan Zinke for Secretary of the Interior | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after President-Elect Donald Trump nominated Congressman Ryan Zinke (MT-At Large) to serve as Secretary of the Interior. Congressman Zinke has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2015 and is currently a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. “Whether on the battlefield as a Navy Seal, or as a Member of Congress on the House Floor, Congressman Zinke is a true patriot who serves his country with honor, distinction and effectiveness,” said Cole. “I am incredibly pleased with President-Elect Trump’s choice to nominate my friend and colleague, who I am confident will serve in this position very well.” “Congressman Zinke is well-versed and knowledgeable about the issues concerning our nation’s interior from his service in the Montana State Legislature and his role on the House Committee on Natural Resources. As a lifelong hunter and fisherman, he has great respect for our environment, and is a strong advocate for conserving public lands and keeping them productive.” “I am especially pleased that Ryan has publicly noted his commitment to, and understanding of, Native American issues,” continued Cole. “As the Co-Chair of the Native American Caucus, I’ve had the opportunity to work with him on a numerous Native American matters. He is a consistent defender of tribal sovereignty, and is committed to helping tribes achieve economic independence. Ryan truly is a leader that fully encompasses the scope of what this role will require, and I look forward to working with him in his new capacity.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-russell-announces-nominations-us-service-academies | Congressman Russell Announces Nominations for U.S. Service Academies | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Del City, O.K. – Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) has announced the 2016 U.S. Service Academy candidates nominated from Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District for the 2017-2018 academic year. The candidates are: Edmond North High School Blake Herring – U.S. Military Academy (West Point), Air Force Academy Austin Martin – West Point Cierra Anderson – West Point, Air Force Academy, Naval Academy Jake Reynolds – Naval Academy Cameron Hancock – West Point, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy Anthony Macaluso – Air Force Academy Callen Koiner – Air Force Academy Edmond Memorial High School Jonah Weltzheimer - Air Force Academy, Naval Academy Deer Creek High School (Edmond) Ms. Aksah Cherian – West Point John Marshall High School – Oklahoma City Lenerd Leviston – Air Force Academy Putnam City North High School – Oklahoma City Aaron Corona – Air Force Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, Naval Academy Oklahoma School of Science and Math – OSSM (Oklahoma City) Opeyemi Odejimi – West Point Dove Science Academy – Oklahoma City Ana Maria Pasillas – West Point, Naval Academy, Merchant Marine Academy, Air Force Academy Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School – Oklahoma City Alexander Best – Naval Academy Sofia Figueroa – Naval Academy Helen Homola – Air Force Academy Crossings Christian School – Oklahoma City Karson Kosanke – Naval Academy Casady High School – Oklahoma City Sam Harrison – Naval Academy The highly competitive process is weighed concerning SAT/ACT scores, class rank, athletic and extracurricular activities, as well as leadership potential. Each applicant also completes a personal interview with Congressman Russell’s review board which consists of retired service members and Academy graduates: Gen. Bruce Litchfield (ret.), former Commander of the Air Force Sustainment Center at Tinker Staff Sergeant Rusty Dunagan (ret.), Army Mr. Nels Petersen, 1980 Naval Academy graduate Capt. Michelle Axtman - 2009 Air Force Academy graduate Edward "Ted" Perry - 2005 West Poin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-obama-signs-senator-lankford-dc-transparency-bill-into-law | President Obama Signs Senator Lankford D.C. Transparency Bill Into Law | 2016-12-15 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.15.16 President Obama Signs Senator Lankford D.C. Transparency Bill Into Law WASHINGTON, DC On Wednesday, President Obama signed into law a bill that was written by Senator James Lankford the District of Columbia Judicial Financial Transparency Act. This law increases judicial transparency for Washington, DC court judges by requiring they meet the same financial disclosure thresholds as federal judges, and it modernizes multiple court functions. Lankford introduced the Senate version of this bill in May of 2016. I am pleased that this judicial transparency bill has been signed into law. It promotes greater transparency for DC judges and it meets the DC courts' needs for modernization, said Lankford. I appreciate Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton for working to get our bill through the House so that we can ensure that the federally-funded local courts of DC are using taxpayer dollars efficiently while serving the residents of the District of the Columbia. The law increases the dollar amount that must be reported for DC judges and it makes the reports available to the public. The law also makes other much-needed improvements to the courts, including: accepting payments by credit card, allowing magistrate judges to serve in the Probate Divisions, increasing the amount-in-controversy allowed for Small Claims cases, and delegating authority for senior judges to approve court-appointed attorney vouchers. Senator Lankford worked with the Washington, DC Courts to make improvements in these areas some of which have been ignored since the 1970's. Lankford believes that because DC court judges are paid by the federal government, they should be held to the same standards of disclosure as all federal judges. Senator Lankford is chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform and Federal Management, which maintains jurisdiction over the federal workforce and the District of Columbia. ### Print Email Tweet… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=97 | Mullin Supports Nomination of Governor Rick Perry as Secretary of Energy | 2016-12-14 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement upon learning of President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Governor Rick Perry as the next Secretary of Energy: “Governor Rick Perry is an excellent choice as the incoming Secretary of Energy for our nation. As the governor of Texas, Governor Perry has experience building and running one of the country’s largest states,” Mullin said. “Governor Perry has extensive experience building and sustaining Texas’ economy by way of one their largest industries: the energy sector,” Mullin added. “In developing energy resources and building infrastructure to support the energy industry, Governor Perry knows what it means to have successful energy policies that benefit the people of Texas and the entire country, while still protecting and conserving our nation’s natural resources.” “I am confident that as the Secretary of Energy, Governor Perry will make decisions that continue to put our nation and its citizens first. He will work to remove current barriers to energy production and will fight to make America energy independent while creating new jobs, lower fuel prices, and increased economic activity. Oklahoma would benefit tremendously with Governor Perry at the helm of the Department of Energy, and I fully support his nomination.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-nomination-rex-tillerson-secretary-state | Cole Supports Nomination of Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after President-Elect Trump nominated Rex Tillerson to serve as Secretary of State for the next Administration. Tillerson is currently the CEO and Chairman of ExxonMobil Corporation. “Rex Tillerson is an excellent choice to be the Secretary of State. He has already proven his diplomatic and management skills as the CEO of ExxonMobil, and I am extremely impressed with his strong leadership background,” said Cole. “Mr. Tillerson will bring a wide range of international contacts, and tremendous respect for and from dozens of important foreign leaders. His unique perspective is exactly what the State Department needs to strengthen relations between the United States and foreign nations. With his business background, he is by definition a realist and internationalist. President-Elect Trump has made a superb choice.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/new-years-resolution | A New Year's Resolution | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | In Article I, section 7, clause 1 of the United States Constitution, our Founding Fathers laid out the framework for the Congressional “Power of the Purse.” Congress has the fundamental responsibility for raising revenue and appropriating spending. It has done so for more than two centuries, but the job has become more complicated than need be in recent decades. Over the past several years, passing a budget and funding the government has grown more difficult, and has even resulted in government shutdowns. Just last week, Congress passed a continuing resolution at the 11th hour, just narrowly avoiding yet another government shutdown. Failure to pass appropriations bills and reliance upon continuing resolutions is an irresponsible way to govern and a dereliction of duty on the part of our elected officials. We are fortunate that we did not witness another government shutdown last week, but the struggle to appropriate funds for our government programs is still real. You see, we must, and should, pass new appropriations bills each year to reflect the changing circumstances in our government programs and agencies. The needs and priorities of our government agencies are constantly changing and the annual appropriations process is the only responsible way to address these changes. Along with appropriations legislation, we have authorization bills, which authorize the funding for government programs and agencies. For example, we just recently passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the next Fiscal Year 2017. It is one of the most critical, comprehensive bills that Congress considers every year, and it is must-pass legislation. That was one huge step forward. However, all too often the one step forward is followed by two steps back. This year, in the House, we were successful in passing all twelve appropriations bills that fund the broad spectrum of our government out of the Appropriations Committee. But this is simply not enough. We need to get back into the regular order of things, and take all tw… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-perry-for-energy-secretary- | Inhofe Statement on Perry for Energy Secretary | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Perry for Energy Secretary Tuesday, December 13, 2016 WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry to be Energy Secretary: “Rick Perry is an excellent choice to lead the Department of Energy,” Inhofe said. “Perry understands the abundance of our domestic energy resources and what it takes to power our complex and growing economy. I am confident that under his leadership, the DOE will be right sized and focused intently on its twin goals of national security and energy independence. American economic dominance cannot be achieved without our continued responsible use of natural gas, oil, coal, and nuclear resources. I congratulate my good friend Rick Perry on his nomination and look forward to working with him.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-tillerson-for-secretary-of-state | Inhofe Statement on Tillerson for Secretary of State | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Tillerson for Secretary of State Tuesday, December 13, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson to be Secretary of State: "I am pleased by President-elect Trump’s announcement to nominate Rex Tillerson to be our Secretary of State," Inhofe said. "I have known Rex for years and think he will be great for this position. He is an accomplished leader who has proven himself on the world stage as ExxonMobil’s CEO. His business acumen will provide a welcomed, fresh look at how the State Department conducts its business, and I am confident he will leverage our global leadership position to strengthen the United States and our allies around the world. I look forward to discussing my national security concerns with him and working closely with him in the coming years.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/-senator-lankford-highlights-oklahoma-charity-in-senate-opportunity-coalitions-second-report | Senator Lankford Highlights Oklahoma Charity in Senate Opportunity Coalitions Second Report | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.13.16 Senator Lankford Highlights Oklahoma Charity in Senate Opportunity Coalition's Second Report WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined the Senate Opportunity Coalition (SOC) last week to release its second report reviewing their continued progress in identifying common obstacles faced by millions of Americans still living in poverty. Federal, state and local governments should begin to think more about the prevention of poverty, rather than just the management of poverty, said Lankford. To help achieve better outcomes for foster youth, and at-risk youth, the federal government should allow nonprofits like Peppers Ranch Foster Community to thrive and flourish. Onerous regulations can be the difference between a thriving charity or a struggling charity, which leads to reduced services for those who need it most. Civil society is the backbone for America's fight against povertythe federal government should do everything it can to allow them to serve the poor without the barrier of burdensome regulations. The premise of the SOC is to help align the efforts of several Senators who have made fighting poverty a priority on their agenda. The original report was released on Sept. 21, 2016, and featured experiences and remarks from Senators Tim Scott (R-SC), Joni Ernst (R-IA), James Lankford (R-OK), Marco Rubio (R-FL), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK). Since the launch, the coalition has expanded and now includes Senators Cory Gardner (R-CO), Steve Daines (R-MT), and Dean Heller (R-NV). The coalition's second publication is entitled Paving the Path to a Brighter Future II. The document includes additional stories and experiences of the Members' meetings with people from their home states that shows the depth and complexity of addressing the issue of poverty. The full document can be read here. ### Print Email Tweet Next Art… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-judiciary-chairman-recommends-criminal-investigation-into-planned-parenthood | Senate Judiciary Chairman Recommends Criminal Investigation Into Planned Parenthood | 2016-12-13 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.13.16 Senate Judiciary Chairman Recommends Criminal Investigation Into Planned Parenthood Lankford Applauds Referral to Department of Justice, FBI OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley's (R-IA) decision to refer the Planned Parenthood Federation of America to the FBI and the Department of Justice for investigation and possible prosecution. The Committee today released a detailed report about Planned Parenthood's harvesting of human tissue and its potential failed or lack of compliance with the law. I am pleased that Senate Judiciary Chairman Grassley has asked the Justice Department and the FBI to do a criminal investigation into the tissue harvesting operation of Planned Parenthood, said Lankford. The findings in this detailed report are staggering. Planned Parenthood has engaged in inhumane and barbaric procedures that are possibly illegal, and they must be held accountable. It is also past time for their taxpayer federal funding to be redirected to other entities that provide woman's health care without doing abortions. While our nation is divided on abortion, we shouldn't force the taxes of Americans who strongly oppose organ harvesting or abortion to continue to fund an organization that carries out these inhumane practices. In July 2015, Lankford joined Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Rand Paul (R-KY) to introduce a bill to defund Planned Parenthood and redirect its taxpayer funding to other entities that provide women's health care services. Shortly after videos revealed Planned Parenthood's practice of harvesting human body parts from abortions, Lankford delivered a passionate speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate. In January 2016, Congress passed a law to defund Planned Parenthood, but President Obama vetoed the bill. The Judiciary Committee ReportConcludes: Despite the clear legislative history of the 1993 NIH Revitalization … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/russell-s-air-traffic-control-bill-signed-law | Russells Air Traffic Control Bill Signed into Law | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Del City, OK – Congressman Steve Russell’s (OK-5) bill, H.R. 5785 – a measure that eliminated the annuity cap for retired Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) who work as ATC instructors, was signed into law by President Barack Obama. U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla) championed this bill through the Senate and Congressman Tom Cole (OK-4) co-sponsored the bill in the House. This annuity income cap disincentivized retired air traffic controllers from working full-time as instructors and thus created the need for several part-time instructors to fill the void. The enactment of this law will encourage instructors to work full-time, create more continuity in the classroom, reduce training costs, and help ensure the safety of our skies. “I would like to thank President Obama for signing this bill into law,” Congressman Russell said. “It is paramount that we secure our skies with the expertise of well-trained air traffic controllers and their instructors. We should encourage exceptional controllers to work full-time as instructors, rather than financially penalize them for training the next generation. I am pleased that this will increase efficiency at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center training academy and simultaneously save millions of American taxpayer dollars while keeping our skies safe.” “I am pleased that as we wrap up this year, the President has signed a bill into law that ensures the next generation of air traffic controllers have a consistent training environment and experienced instructors,” Inhofe said. “Hundreds of instructors are needed to make sure our nation’s air traffic controllers are prepared to manage the complicated network of air traffic in the National Airspace System and this law has removed the government red tape impeding that effort. I appreciate the work of my Oklahoma colleagues for their work on this important bill.” “I am thankful that the President has signed this bill into law, which will help support experienced air traffic control instructors to teach a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-praise-senate-passage-of-veterans-healthcare-and-education-priorities | Inhofe, Lankford Praise Senate Passage of Veterans Healthcare & Education Priorities | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford Praise Senate Passage of Veterans Healthcare & Education Priorities Monday, December 12, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), and U.S. Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) today praised the passage of S. 3021, a bill that advances key healthcare and education priorities for our veterans. The bill passed the Senate on Dec. 10 by unanimous consent. “Improving health care and education benefits for our veterans has been one of my top priorities for my entire tenure in Congress,” said Inhofe. “I am glad the Senate passed the important legislation and I look forward to finishing this work in both chambers early next year. Building on recent changes in leadership and the third party investigation of the VA centers in Oklahoma, this legislation ensures that care will continue to improve in Oklahoma and across the country as VA’s regional directors are permanently empowered to hire qualified third party entities to audit their health care facilities. This will hold them accountable to providing care at the same level of excellence as private hospitals.” “I am also proud that this legislation fixes a frivolous law that prevented veterans from fully exercising their GI benefits at Career & Technical Education Centers,” Inhofe continued. “Career & Technical Education Centers equip our veterans for the workforce and teach skills that translate into good paying jobs. We have a responsibility to those who have served and we must work to ensure they have access to opportunities that will ensure their success after they return home; this legislation does just that.” “This bill will ensure veterans have access to educational assistance and career training at accredited career technical training centers in Oklahoma and across the country,” said Lankford. “This also fixes issues with veteran access to vocational rehabilitation services. I’m pleased this bill was advanced by the Senate and I loo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-russell-cole-on-atc-bill-signed-into-law- | Inhofe, Lankford, Russell, Cole on ATC Bill Signed Into Law | 2016-12-12 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford, Russell, Cole on ATC Bill Signed Into Law Monday, December 12, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe and James Lankford, as well as U.S. Reps. Steve Russell and Tom Cole, today praised H.R. 5785, a measure that eliminated the annuity cap for retired Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) who work as ATC instructors, as it was signed into law by President Obama. This annuity income cap disincentivized retired air traffic controllers from working full-time as instructors and thus created the need for several part-time instructors to fill the void. The enactment of this law will encourage instructors to work full-time, create more continuity in the classroom, reduce training costs, and help ensure the safety of our skies. “I am pleased that as we wrap up this year, the President has signed a bill into law that ensures the next generation of air traffic controllers have a consistent training environment and experienced instructors,” Inhofe said. “Hundreds of instructors are needed to make sure our nation’s air traffic controllers are prepared to manage the complicated network of air traffic in the National Airspace System and this law has removed the government red tape impeding that effort. I appreciate the work of my Oklahoma colleagues for their work on this important bill.” “I am thankful that the President has signed this bill into law, which will help support experienced air traffic control instructors to teach a new generation of air traffic control students,” Lankford said. “The passage of this common-sense legislation will mean the FAA will be able to continue hiring new air traffic controllers to address the staffing shortages that exist across the nation. This bill was vital for the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, and the training they provide for new controllers that will report to control towers and en route centers all across America.” “I would like to thank President Obama for signing this bill into law,” Russell said. “It is paramount that we secur… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/cole-joint-op-ed-oklahoman-importance-higher-ed-research | Cole Joint Op-Ed in The Oklahoman: The importance of higher ed research | 2016-12-11 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | The Oklahoman - Congressman Tom Cole and Chancellor Glen D. Johnson Supporting our higher education institutions and providing adequate resources for them is a priority that Americans can agree on. Higher education is the backbone for American ingenuity and innovation, and Oklahoma is home to many colleges and universities committed to quality education. Along with groundbreaking research and enhanced learning opportunities, we must recognize that it takes a dedicated team to establish solid programs. From the security officers who keep our campuses safe to the academic advisers who improve student success, each role is crucial to the vitality of our colleges and universities. Critics continue to refer to “administrative bloat” in higher education, yet in reality, state system campuses have invested significantly more in academics than in administration during the past nine years. Oklahoma public higher education institutions have increased investment in academic services from 75 to 78 percent of total budgeted revenue while decreasing administration costs from 6.6 to 5.7 percent. Recent criticism has focused on the number of noninstructional staff in higher education, as though these positions contribute less to overall student success. In reality, these positions manage the very systems that support the academic enterprise. The expansion of in-state health care services provided by the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences resulted in a combined 67 percent increase in noninstructional staff during the past 15 years, including physicians, clinicians and researchers. In fact, approximately 74 percent of employee growth during that time period is directly tied to health care services and research, both of which are largely supported by nonappropriated dollars, including revenue from medical practice plans, health research grants and private donations. Growth in noninstructional staff also reflects specific requirements to meet federal… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-water-infrastructure-bill | Senator Lankford Supports Water Infrastructure Bill | 2016-12-10 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.10.16 Senator Lankford Supports Water Infrastructure Bill WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) made the following statement today in support of the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (S. 612), which passed the Senate by a vote of 78 to 21: The Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act is a solid infrastructure bill that provides much-needed innovation for numerous projects across the nation, and Oklahoma. It authorizes essential navigation, flood control, and restoration projects, many of them backlogged by the Army Corps of Engineers for years. Of particular interest to Oklahomans are provisions for the Port of Catoosa, federal authorization for the southeast Oklahoma water settlement, a property conveyance for the Grand River Dam Authority, and study of the Tulsa levees, which are in serious need of repair. This legislation allows for continued efforts to ensure life and property in the area are properly protected from flood damage. I am pleased that this bill directs the Army Corps of Engineers to complete, within one year, a previously mandated study to determine whether they hold non-essential properties on their inventory, so that we may turn over these non-essential properties to other entities and reduce the burden on the Corps' maintenance budget. I applaud Senator Inhofe for his tireless work on this bill, and I'm glad Congress has worked together to see this through. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=419 | Further Continuing and Security Assistance Appropriations Act, 2017 | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Further Continuing and Security Assistance Appropriations Act, 2017 f t # e Washington, DC, December 9, 2016 My line-by-line assessment of the pros and cons contained inside of the Further Continuing and Security Assistance Appropriations Act, 2017, often referred to as a Continuing Resolution (CR), can be found below. CR Pro-Con List 12.7.16.pdf f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-oklahoma-industry-leaders-praise-final-passage-of-wiin-oklahoma-priorities | Inhofe, Oklahoma Industry Leaders Praise Final Passage of WIIN, Oklahoma Priorities | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Oklahoma Industry Leaders Praise Final Passage of WIIN, Oklahoma Priorities Friday, December 9, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, praised the final passage of S. 612, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, which passed with a strong bipartisan vote of 78-21 and includes a number of provisions integral to Oklahoma. “I am pleased that the WIIN Act has crossed the finish line with strong, bipartisan support,” Inhofe said. “This bill – soon to be law – fulfills many important Oklahoma priorities. It helps Oklahoma rural electric cooperatives and the families they serve by returning the regulation of coal combustion residuals to states and stopping the Corps from charging fees to cross Corps land. The WIIN bill addresses Army Corps projects in Oklahoma by letting the Port of Catoosa and the Port of Muskogee provide services and funds to keep their ports and locks operational, by preventing deauthorization of the project to deepen the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, and by directing the Corps to find solutions for the Tulsa and West Tulsa Levee System. The bill also addresses recreation at Corps lakes in Oklahoma, continuing a program to encourage recreation opportunities, and transferring easements at Grand Lake to the state. WIIN also addresses the Oklahoma, Chickasaw, and Choctaw water agreement and creates opportunities to increase water supplies at Corps reservoirs. “Another integral aspect of this bill is the assistance it provides to disadvantaged and rural communities in Oklahoma by helping these communities comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act. I am proud of the bipartisan efforts that got this bill across the finish line and I look forward to seeing the benefits to Oklahoma in action.” “I commend the efforts of Sen. Inhofe for putting forth a bipartisan WRDA bill and keeping the commitment of passing a bill every two year… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-senate-passage-of-cr | Inhofe Statement on Senate Passage of CR | 2016-12-09 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Senate Passage of CR Friday, December 9, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), today released a statement in response to the Senate passage of H.R. 2028, the Continuing Resolution (CR), which prevents a government shutdown, provides additional funding for U.S. troops overseas and funds the government through April 28, 2017. The CR passed the Senate by a vote of 63-36. The CR passed the House of Representatives Dec. 8 by a vote of 326-96. “Unfortunately, and only because of Senate Democrats Obstruction, passing the Continuing Resolution today was a necessary measure,” Inhofe said. “Senate Democrats prevented this Republican-led congress from passing the 12 appropriations bills through regular order, which is what we should be doing every year. In fact, Senate Democrats blocked defense related appropriations bills six separate times; essentially using our military as their negotiating tool in their attempt to increase federal funding for social program slush funds. “This CR, was a last resort but will keep the government open and will allow us to proceed into next year and the new administration smoothly. Passing the CR ensures essential funding for our troops overseas who have been chronically underfunded by the Obama Administration. Lastly, this CR includes language that will allow for a quick confirmation of Gen. Mattis as President-elect Trump’s Secretary of Defense. It is my hope that next year we return to funding our government through regular order.” Sen. Inhofe authored the following op-eds on the importance of funding the government through regular order: Back to Work: Supporting Veterans & Military Bases Back to Work: Supporting Transportation & Aviation Back to Work: Supporting Energy & Infrastructure Back to Work: Funding our Military Background: Defense Spending The CR includes a $1.6 billion increase in defense spending over current levels. Additionally, $5.8 billion in new funding is being provided to su… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://mullin.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=418 | Mullin Applauds Passage of Water Bill | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Markwayne Mullin | M001190 | mullin.house.gov | legacy | Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2) released the following statement after the House passed S. 612, Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN): “WIIN delivers a major victory for Oklahoma and includes several priorities important to its citizens, and I am proud to support its passage,” Mullin said. “I’d like to thank Senator Inhofe for the role he has played in the inclusion of Oklahoman priorities to WIIN. As the Chairman of the Energy and Public Works Committee, he has been instrumental in crafting these provisions for the benefit of Oklahomans.” Within the WIIN is the final water settlement agreed upon between the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes and Oklahoma City. The settlement will allow the state to maintain its permitting and administrative authority, and the Indian tribes will undergo evaluations of water allocation processes. Additionally, it will include lake level release restrictions to allow Oklahoma City to continue to utilize Sardis Lake for recreation, fishing, and wildlife habitats. “The water rights dispute in south-central and southeastern Oklahoma has a long and complex history, and I am glad to see the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations, the State of Oklahoma, and Oklahoma City work together to agree upon this settlement,” Mullin added. “Water is one of our most precious resources, and I am pleased that parties with differing interests can come to an agreement for the good of Oklahoma, and its natural resources.” It also includes a provision that allows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to accept and use funds, equipment, and labor from private entities in the event of a failure or maintenance issue that the Corps does not have the resources to fix. The McClellan–Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS) and the ports in Oklahoma’s Second District brings in millions of dollars each day to Oklahoma’s economy. “The McClellan-Kerr and its ports are essential to Oklahoma’s revenue stream and we can’t allow a lock or dam failure to impede it as a source of income … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-nomination-oklahoma-attorney-general-scott-pruitt-epa | Cole Supports Nomination of Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt for EPA Administrator | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after President-Elect Donald Trump nominated Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt to serve as Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Pruitt has served as the Oklahoma Attorney General since 2010. “I am extremely pleased with President-Elect Trump’s decision to appoint Attorney General Scott Pruitt to lead the EPA,” said Cole. “This is what I predict to be one of Mr. Trump’s best appointments.” “I’ve been privileged to know Scott Pruitt since he was a young State Senator in Oklahoma back in 1996. During his time in the State Senate and as Attorney General, he has proven to be an energetic, hard-working visionary, and an exceptional public servant. He is a person of absolute integrity and a man with rock-solid conservative credentials and convictions.” “Scott knows how to enforce regulations in a way that values economic opportunity, while simultaneously protecting the health and safety of the American people. I have no doubt he will strike the right balance between protecting our land, air and water while respecting the rights of property owners and entrepreneurs,” concluded Cole. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-passage-further-continuing-and-security-assistance | Cole Supports Passage of the Further Continuing and Security Assistance Appropriations Act, 2017 | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the passage of the short-term Further Continuing and Security Assistance Appropriations Act, 2017 (Continuing Resolution), H.R. 2028, which passed by a vote of 326-96 . This legislation prevents a government shutdown and will continue funding federal programs and agencies until April 28, 2017. “Funding our federal government is perhaps the most basic responsibility of Congress. I’m pleased that we met this responsibility, and prevented another government shutdown,” said Cole. “I’d like to congratulate Chairman Hal Rogers and Ranking Member Nita Lowey for crafting an important appropriations measure and ensuring that critical programs and agencies have the resources they need to serve our citizens.” “I am also pleased that several adjustments were made to make sure important defense programs will continue to function without interruption, and that important healthcare initiatives in Oklahoma will continue support our Native American communities.” “While the government will be funded through April, this is certainly not an ideal way to run the government. “Congress could have, and should have, passed the necessary appropriations bills that would have funded the government through Fiscal Year 2017. Instead, we are essentially putting the government on auto-pilot without taking into consideration the changing needs and circumstances of each government agency.” “Rather than finishing its work, Congress is kicking the can down the road. I encourage my colleagues to proceed expeditiously in consideration of appropriations measures for the rest of Fiscal Year 2017 and for Fiscal Year 2018. I hope we can do a better job returning to regular order in the New Year, and get things done,” concluded Cole. Of importance, the Continuing Resolution (H.R. 2028) will include: Maintains key defense programs to continue, including the KC-46A Tanker More than $9 billion for Overseas Contingency Funding (OCO… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-passage-s-612-and-oklahoma-water-rights-settlement | Cole Supports Passage of S. 612 and Oklahoma Water Rights Settlement | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the passage of S. 612, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act, which was passed by a vote of 360-61. This legislation would authorize appropriations for numerous water infrastructure projects, natural resources projects, settlements, and much more. Included as well is the Oklahoma Water Rights Settlement between the city of Oklahoma City, the state of Oklahoma, the Chickasaw Nation and the Choctaw Nation. “This bill is a comprehensive piece of legislation that will improve the well-being for millions of Americans through valuable water projects,” said Cole. “It will address the on-going water issues in Flint, Michigan, provide federal funds for numerous water infrastructure projects and consummate many water settlements for Native American tribes across the United States. For Oklahomans, it will finalize the water settlement between the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations and Oklahoma City.” The Oklahoma Water Rights Settlement has been litigated for over five years, and upon passage of S. 612, the settlement is made final. The areas of contention are the Sardis Lake and Kiamichi watershed in south-central and southeastern Oklahoma. The conflict has grown over the water rights ownership and regulatory authority between the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations’ territories, and the city of Oklahoma City. In 2011, the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations filed a lawsuit against the city of Oklahoma City for withdrawing water from Sardis Lake. “This has been an on-going conflict that not only affects the parties involved, but everyone in these areas as well,” said Cole. “This is important to many people. But we must realize that Tribal Sovereignty, the right to govern and the defining of those rights must be honored for the Chickasaws and the Choctaws. This settlement allows them to retain that distinction, protects the interests of the people living in those areas and provides security for Oklahoma City’s water needs.”… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-russell-issues-statement-passing-john-glenn | Congressman Russell Issues Statement on the Passing of John Glenn | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) issued the following statement after hearing about the passing of Senator John Glenn: “Today, we lost a pioneer, a distinguished statesman, and an honored World War II and Korean War veteran. Any one of these accomplishments would be worthy of praise, but John Glenn did it all. From flying 59 combat missions in the Pacific and 63 in Korea, to being the first American to orbit the Earth, to running for President and serving the people of Ohio as their Senator for 25 years, John Glenn was an inspiration to our country, and he will be missed. I pray for his family, loved ones, and all who knew him.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-supports-passage-of-fy17-ndaa-includes-key-oklahoma-provisions | Inhofe Supports Passage of FY’17 NDAA, Includes Key Oklahoma Provisions | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Supports Passage of FY’17 NDAA, Includes Key Oklahoma Provisions Thursday, December 8, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2017 (FY 17). The legislation passed by a vote of 92 to 7, sending the bill to the president for his signature. The NDAA passed the House by a vote of 375 to 34 on Friday, Dec. 2. “For the 55th consecutive year, Congress is sending a defense authorization bill to the president. This bill begins a turnaround for our national security and our military, halting eight years of personnel cuts and a dramatic decline in readiness” said Inhofe. “I voted to advance this legislation once again because it authorizes necessary funding for our national security, focuses on increasing combat readiness, authorizes additional resources for our troops overseas, institutes efficiency and cost-saving reforms and supports our service members and their families.” “This bill ensures our service members will receive pay and benefits, training, education, and ready equipment. It funds increased troop strength for every service over the President’s Budget Request, raises service member pay 2.1 percent, protects and improves military health care for service members, their families and our veterans, protects our commissaries, funds acquisition and modernization of our equipment, and increases funding of the depot maintenance of our vehicles, ships and aircraft.” “This bill authorizes a $9 billion increase in defense spending over the President’s Budget Request including $5.8 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations budget and an additional $3.2 billion to address readiness issues in the base budget. While this funding is a step in the right direction, it does not come close to addressing the defense readiness shortfalls created over the past eight years. Finally, this bill prohibits another Base Realignment … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-ndaa-conference-report | Senator Lankford Supports NDAA Conference Report | 2016-12-08 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.08.16 Senator Lankford Supports NDAA Conference Report WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) made the following statement today in support of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Report (S. 2943), which passed the Senate by a vote of 92 to 7: I'm pleased that Congress has passed a responsible bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act, which gives our military the funding and direction it needs to protect our national security. Providing for the defense ofour nation is one of Congress' most important responsibilities. With international instability and conflict on the rise, it is important to ensure that our men and women in uniform have what they need to keep us safe and protect our freedom. I'm pleased that this bill supports the Air Force's KC-46A Tanker program in Oklahoma, increases depot maintenance, supports facility modernization, andit prevents the closure of the Guantanamo Bay detention facility. This bill does not include a provision, that existed in previous versions, that would require women to register for military Selective Service. In September, Lankford and Senator Jim Inhofe asked Congressional conferees of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees to remove this provision. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-applauds-passage-hr-1219-arbuckle-project-maintenance-complex-and | Cole Applauds Passage of H.R. 1219, the Arbuckle Project Maintenance Complex and District Conveyance Act of 2015 | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole released the following statement after passage of his legislation, H.R. 1219, the Arbuckle Project Maintenance Complex and District Conveyance Act of 2015. This bill was passed by a vote of 412-1 in the House. H.R. 1219 authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to convey all right, title and interest in the Maintenance Complex and District Office of the federal Arbuckle project to the Arbuckle Master Conservancy District in Murray County, Oklahoma. “I was proud to sponsor this legislation, which will put ownership back in the hands where it belongs,” said Cole. “The Arbuckle Maintenance Complex provides numerous benefits to the surrounding areas including flood control, municipal water supply and many recreational water activities. The title of this complex will be given back to the county and serve as an Oklahoma stronghold.” In 1962, Congress passed a law to authorize payment of reimbursable costs for construction, operation and maintenance of the Bureau of Reclamation’s “Arbuckle Project” in south-central Oklahoma. Once conveyed, the federal government will be relieved of all future liability and financial responsibility related to the Arbuckle Project Maintenance Complex. For more information on H.R. 1219, please click here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-statement-in-support-of-scott-pruitt-for-epa-administrator | Inhofe, Lankford Statement in Support of Scott Pruitt for EPA Administrator | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford Statement in Support of Scott Pruitt for EPA Administrator Wednesday, December 7, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) committee, and U.S. Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.), today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate Oklahoma Attorney General E. Scott Pruitt as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Scott Pruitt has been a leader and a partner on environmental issues for many years,” Inhofe said. “Pruitt has fought back against unconstitutional and overzealous environmental regulations like Waters of the U.S. and the Clean Power Plan; he has proven that being a good steward of the environment does not mean burdening tax payers and businesses with red tape. In his appearances before the Environment and Public Works committee, Pruitt has demonstrated that he is an expert on environmental laws and a champion of states’ roles in implementing those laws. Scott is thoughtful, experienced and a natural pick for this role. I am pleased with President-elect Trump’s selection and I look forward to working with my fellow Oklahoman in his new capacity.” “I applaud President-elect Trump and his team for choosing Scott Pruitt to lead the Environmental Protection Agency,” Lankford said. “Pruitt has served Oklahoma as a tireless defender of justice and law, and I am confident that he will serve America well. I look forward to working with him to restore a balanced approach to regulations and governance that fosters economic growth, advances energy independence and ensures stewardship for the environment. Scott Pruitt knows the difference between a state responsibility and a federal responsibility. The American people deserve an EPA that rejects extreme activism and instead returns to its proper interpretation of environmental law.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-supports-bill-to-promote-drug-innovation-and-continue-to-address-opioid-crisis | Senator Lankford Supports Bill to Promote Drug Innovation and Continue to Address Opioid Crisis | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.16 Senator Lankford Supports Bill to Promote Drug Innovation and Continue to Address Opioid Crisis WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today voted for Senate passage of the 21st Century Cures Act (H.R. 34), a bill that removes burdensome regulations on the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to allow them to bring safe drugs and devices to the market more quickly, provide assistance to combat Oklahoma's growing opioid crisis, enhance electronic health records, and address the growing mental health emergency. Many Americans have experienced first-hand the effects of Alzheimer's, mental illness, cancer, or another debilitating illness. Potential cures are currently delayed behind miles of red tape. Today, Congress passed a landmark bill that allows innovation in healthcare and drug development that will encourage new medical discoveries. Our nation has tremendous research and health care capacity, but our innovators are trapped behind layers of bureaucracy. This bill lays the foundation to continue the momentum we have built in medical innovation and discovery for many years to come. Additionally, the bill continues to support states with the means necessary as they address the rapid expansion of prescription opioid drug crisis that continues to devastate communities across the country, including Oklahoma. Currently, it can take up to a decade for medical discoveries to be considered by the FDA, and the cost for a single drug to go through the regulatory process and to get to the patient's medicine cabinet averages over $1 billion. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 94-5. Last week, the House of Representatives passed the bill 392-26. The bill will now go to the president to be signed into law. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-inhofe-statement-in-support-of-scott-pruitt-for-epa-administrator | Senators Lankford, Inhofe Statement In Support of Scott Pruitt for EPA Administrator | 2016-12-07 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.16 Senators Lankford, Inhofe Statement In Support of Scott Pruitt for EPA Administrator WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford and Jim Inhofe today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate Oklahoma Attorney General E. Scott Pruitt as Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: I applaud President-elect Trump and his team for choosing Scott Pruitt to lead the Environmental Protection Agency, said Lankford. Pruitt has served Oklahoma as a tireless defender of justice and law, and I am confident that he will serve America well. I look forward to working with him to restore a balanced approach to regulations and governance that fosters economic growth, advances energy independence and ensures stewardship for the environment. Scott Pruitt knows the difference between a state responsibility and a federal responsibility. The American people deserve an EPA that rejects extreme activism and instead returns to its proper interpretation of environmental law. Scott Pruitt has been a leader and a partner on environmental issues for many years, said Inhofe. Pruitt has fought back against unconstitutional and overzealous environmental regulations like Waters of the U.S. and the Clean Power Plan; he has proven that being a good steward of the environment does not mean burdening tax payers and businesses with red tape. In his appearances before the Environment and Public Works committee, Pruitt has demonstrated that he is an expert on environmental laws and a champion of states' roles in implementing those laws. Scott is thoughtful, experienced and a natural pick for this role. I am pleased with President-elect Trump's selection and I look forward to working with my fellow Oklahoman in his new capacity. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Prev… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-urges-house-leadership-reauthorize-indian-health-care-improvement | Cole Urges House Leadership to Maintain the Indian Health Care Improvement Act | 2016-12-06 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he sent a letter to Chairman Fred Upton, Chairman Kevin Brady and Speaker Paul Ryan, urging them to retain the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA) in any contemplated Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) repeal. These provisions are the bedrock legal authorities for health care services for American Indians and Alaskan Natives. “Ever since President-Elect Donald Trump was elected President, tens of millions of Americans have celebrated his promise to repeal and replace Obamacare,” said Cole. “We now know that this is a priority. Having affordable and quality health care is critically important to American families, and Republicans have a plan that will do just that.” “There are a few provisions within the Affordable Care Act that we all agree should remain, and lift them into our new plan. One such provision is the Indian Health Care Improvement Act,” continued Cole. “This legislation was included in PPACA purely as “vote bait” to secure Democratic votes and has nothing to do with PPACA. It is vital and ensures that Native Americans have quality health care available to them and their families. There is no controversy here – it sets the national policy for many programs and services provided by the Indian Health Service. I urge my colleagues to maintain this important program throughout the repeal process, and understand the tremendous benefit it has for the Native American communities across the country.” To view the letter as a PDF, please click here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/new-leadership-new-era | New Leadership for a New Era | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As President Obama’s days in office come to a close, the specter of significant change is on the horizon. While President-Elect Donald Trump assembles his leadership team, Congress is busy preparing our own agenda to repeal, reform and replace some of the most onerous policies of the Obama Administration. With the right people, Congress and the new President can bring badly needed change to the political atmosphere in our nation and finally begin to get things done. I’ve been very impressed with the initial choices President-Elect Trump has made for his cabinet. Some are friends I have known for a long time, others are leaders I have admired for their previous service in politics, industry, medicine and the military. But they are all very talented and highly qualified and are men and women of whom all Americans can have confidence in. One of our greatest concerns and highest priorities we have as a nation is the state of our national security and homeland defenses. In the past eight years, we have seen growing terror threats and a tentative, unsteady, foreign and military policy. The next Secretary of Defense will have many reforms and changes to make, and must be strong in leading our military. General James Mattis, who has recently been nominated to the position, will be that leader our nation needs to both strengthen as well as streamline the Department of Defense. His extensive record of service and fearless leadership will be crucial in combating our enemies wherever they may be. And I believe he is a choice both Democrats and Republicans can and should get behind. Our military will continue to be the greatest force of strength in the world under General Mattis. As Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee that funds the Departments of Health and Human Services, Education, and Labor, I’ve overseen the budget for many critical programs that effect millions of Americans. Sometimes, people are affected in a helpful fashion like the Alzheimer’s research being conducted at the National Institutes of Hea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-russell-announces-new-dc-based-scheduler | Congressman Russell Announces New DC Based Scheduler | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – Congressman Steve Russell (OK-5) announced the hiring of Hannah Dirks, a native of Woodward, OK, to be his new scheduler in his Washington, DC Office. “I am excited to announce a fellow Oklahoman is joining our fine staff in Washington, DC to be our new scheduler,” Congressman Russell said. “I have no doubt that Hannah will hit the ground running and will get acclimated to Washington quickly.” Hannah Dirks graduated with a degree in History from NW Oklahoma State University in Alva, OK and just completed a Master’s Degree in Media and Society at the University of Kent in England. She is replacing Savannah Jolly, an Air Force Reservist, who was tasked to do an active duty tour in the Air Force at Joint Base Andrews Headquarters. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-applauds-senate-passage-of-21st-century-cures-act | Inhofe Applauds Senate Passage of 21st Century Cures Act | 2016-12-05 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Applauds Senate Passage of 21st Century Cures Act Wednesday, December 7, 2016 WASHINGTON– U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), today voted for H.R. 34, the 21st Century Cures Act, which provides $4.8 billion in new funding to the National Institute of Health (NIH), increased funding for Alzheimer’s and cancer research and provides $1 billion in grants to states to fight the opioid abuse epidemic. The funding is fully offset. This bill passed the Senate by a vote of 94-5. “The 21st Century Cures Act is an important piece of legislation that addresses the opioid epidemic devastating Oklahoma and the country as a whole, as well as advancing medical research for illnesses like Alzheimer’s, cancer and rare pediatric diseases ” Inhofe said. “This bipartisan bill will lead to lifesaving medical breakthroughs that will benefit all Oklahomans. The passage of this legislation creates new hope among doctors, researchers, and patients alike in its effort to spur advancements in biomedical research.” “This increase in funding to the NIH will provide a major shot in the arm for medical research across the United States. By bolstering support for initiatives ranging from Alzheimer’s to cancer, promising projects that otherwise might have gone unexplored will now be undertaken. The payoffs will come in the form of heightened activity in this key sector of our nation’s economy and, ultimately, in new treatments and better outcomes for patients suffering from devastating diseases.” – Stephen Prescott, M.D. President, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation 21st Century Cures Act passed the House last week by a vote of 392–26. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://bridenstine.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=763 | National Defense Authorization Act Includes Bridenstine Provisions | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Jim Bridenstine | B001283 | bridenstine.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim Bridenstine voted for the FY17 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference report. The NDAA conference report reconciles differences in the House and Senate versions passed earlier this year. NDAA is a bipartisan bill that authorizes funding for America’s armed forces and sets Department of Defense policy. Congress has passed the National Defense Authorization Act 55 years in a row. The NDAA conference report includes a number of critical provisions: Pay raise for the troops above the President’s request Additional funding to stop the drawdown in Army soldiers and Marines Expanded care at military hospitals The NDAA conference report rejects a number of controversial policy changes in the Senate NDAA including: Requiring women to register with Selective Service Cuts to housing allowance (including dual military families) The NDAA conference report includes several provisions from Rep. Bridenstine’s American Space Renaissance Act (ASRA). In April 2016, Congressman Bridenstine introduced ASRA, groundbreaking legislation to enact bold reforms across military, civil, and commercial space sectors. NDAA is the first step in Bridenstine’s strategy to enact ASRA piece-by-piece using different legislative vehicles. The conference report includes ten ASRA provisions, including: Section 1605 - Modifies the terms of the Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) to ensure DOD uses accurate cost estimates and fully considers commercial SATCOM technologies. The Pentagon uses AoAs to help select new weapons systems to replace old programs. DOD will start the SATCOM AoA shortly to help choose a successor system to the current Wideband Global SATCOM satellite constellation, which provides long-distance communications capabilities to our warfighter. Section 1606 – Redirects funding to jump start a pilot program to test next-generation SATCOM technologies. Private sector SATCOM companies are offering leap… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-supports-passage-ndaa-fiscal-year-2017 | Cole Supports Passage of NDAA for Fiscal Year 2017 | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed S. 2943, the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2017 (FY 17) by a vote of 375 to 34. This bill authorizes funding and operations for the Department of Defense and our nation’s Armed Services. “Congress has no greater responsibility than that of providing for our common defense through the annual National Defense Authorization Act,” said Cole. “I am pleased that Congress today, as it has for the past 54 years, passed a strong bi-partisan bill that will give our armed forces the tools necessary to keep our nation safe and secure.” “There are a number of key provisions of which I am particularly pleased, including a well-deserved pay raise for our troops and procurement reforms that help save billions of dollars. Further, important benefits like the commissaries and health care will continue to be provided and the legislation keeps costs low for our service members and their families.” Other key provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 include: Halting the drawdown and increasing the end strength of our military troops Continuing the authorization for the Air Force’s KC-46A Tanker program and the Army’s Paladin PIM which are key programs for Oklahoma Providing for a larger force, including increased depot maintenance, facilities sustainment and modernization Continuing the operation of Guantanamo Bay detention camp and prohibiting its closure “Providing the necessary resources for our nation’s military should always be among our highest priorities. We can never falter on our promise to provide for those who defend us selflessly each day. I am proud to support its passage, and will continue to advocate for appropriations measures that are consistent with the authorized funding for FY 17. Now Congress needs to actually fund these reforms, programs and changes by passing a Defens… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-gen-mattis-as-secretary-of-defense | Inhofe Statement on Gen. Mattis as Secretary of Defense | 2016-12-02 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Gen. Mattis as Secretary of Defense Friday, December 2, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate retired Marine Gen. James N. Mattis as secretary of defense. “Our country is being confronted with more threats than I have seen in my lifetime,” Inhofe said. “This demands strong U.S. leadership and I believe that Jim Mattis can provide that leadership for the Department of Defense. I have great respect for retired General Mattis and the candor, honesty, expertise and leadership he has provided this nation. I support his nomination.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/about/books-im-reading/books-im-reading-december-2016 | Books I'm Reading: December 2016 | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | 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: On My Desk The Field of Fight by Lt. General Michael T. Flynn and Michael Ledeen | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/more-russell-reforms-move-through-congress | More Russell Reforms Move Through Congress | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington DC, - Congressman Steve Russell’s (OK-5) H.R. 5384 The Federal Register Printing Savings Act of 2016, passed the House without objection Wednesday. Congressman Russell, author of Waste Watch, wrote this legislation to save hundreds of thousands of dollars each year by prohibiting the mandatory printing and distribution of the Federal Register. The Federal Register is available online and is searchable in this format. Yet, the Federal Register is printed and distributed daily to Congressional offices and often goes directly into the trash. This legislation will end this practice and members of Congress and committee offices will no longer receive automatic printed copies of the Federal Register. “How many Americans did it take to pay the taxes to throw a half a million dollars in the trash every year? The answer to that is what drives me to make this kind of waste stop,” Congressman Russell said. “Every wasteful practice, no matter how trivial, should be evaluated and eliminated. We got into these habits one poor decision at a time and we can get out of them one good decision at a time.” Congressman Russell has highlighted roughly $90 billion in wasteful government spending in his five Waste Watch reports, and has also introduced legislation to save more than $21 billion, with over $4 billion worth of cost cutting measures being signed into law.Also on Wednesday, Congressman Russell’s H.R. 6009 The Federal Agency Mail Management Act passed the House unanimously as well. This legislation amends the Presidential and Federal Records Act Amendments of 2014 to fix an error Congress made some years ago that put mail processing guidance under the National Archives authority. Now it has been rightly restored back to the General Service Administration (GSA). Both the National Archives and the GSA welcomed the legislation. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-firmly-stands-in-support-of-reauthorizing-the-iran-sanctions-act | Inhofe Firmly Stands in Support of Reauthorizing the Iran Sanctions Act | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Firmly Stands in Support of Reauthorizing the Iran Sanctions Act Thursday, December 1, 2016 WASHINGTON– U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today praised the passage H.R. 6297, the Iran Sanctions Extension Act. The bill renews current non-nuclear sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran for another ten years. The Legislation passed the Senate by a vote of 99-0 and the House of Representatives by a vote of 419-1. “In failing to adhere to United Nations Security Council Resolutions, Iran has repeatedly demonstrated it cannot be trusted,” Inhofe said. “Iran has not moderated its conduct since the implementation of the Iran Deal. Since agreeing to the Iran Deal in July 2015, Iran has harassed our Navy in international waters, illegally detained U.S. sailors, fired missiles within a mile of U.S. and coalition ships in the Strait of Hormuz, tested ballistic missiles, allowed Russian combat aircraft to operate from Iran, continued to support Hamas and Hezbollah, denounced Israel’s right to exist, and continued to chant 'Death to America.' Passing the Iran Sanctions Extension Act is a clear signal to Iran that their actions will not be tolerated.” The Iran Sanctions Act, the authority to impose sanctions on Iran, expires on December 31, 2016. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), or Iran Deal, is an international agreement reached in Vienna on July 14, 2015, between Iran and the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (China, France, Russia, United Kingdom, and the United States) to limit the nuclear program of Iran. Inhofe voted against this agreement on Sept. 10, 2015. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/events-senator-lankford-to-discuss-federal-fumbles-in-okc-tulsa | EVENTS: Senator Lankford to Discuss Federal Fumbles in OKC, Tulsa | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.01.16 EVENTS: Senator Lankford to Discuss Federal Fumbles in OKC, Tulsa On Friday, December 2, Senator James Lankford will participate in two events in Oklahoma to discuss his new government waste reportentitled, Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball. Both events are free and open to the public. CLICK HERE TO RSVP WHAT: Senator Lankford Speech at Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs WHEN: Friday, December 2, 7:30am-8:30amCT WHERE: Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs, Advance Center for Free Enterprise, 415 NE 13th Street, Oklahoma City, OK WHAT: Senator Lankford Speech at Americans for Prosperity Monthly Policy Lunch WHEN: Friday, December 2, 11:30am-1:00pmCT WHERE: Americans for Prosperity Oklahoma Headquarters, 3307 S. Harvard Ave, Suite C, Tulsa, OK Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous 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-iran-sanctions-act | Senator Lankford Applauds Senate Passage of Iran Sanctions Act | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.01.16 Senator Lankford Applauds Senate Passage of Iran Sanctions Act WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford today praised Senate passage of the Iran Sanctions Act (HR 6297), which extends existing sanctions' authority on Iran until December 31, 2026. The sanctions aim to deny Iran the resources to support terrorism or develop weapons of mass destruction. "I am encouraged that both the House and Senate have reasserted their authority as a co-equal branch of government and demonstrated overwhelming support of the Iran Sanctions Act.There are not many issues on which Congress is united, but it is clear that Republicans and Democrats alike are wary of Iran's pursuit of a nuclear weapon and consistent support of terrorism around the world.By extending the President's authority to pressure Iran with crippling sanctions, Congress has ensured the next administration has the appropriate tools at their disposal to rein in the world's largest state sponsor of terrorismIran. On July 14, Lankford and Deb Fischer (R-NE) introduced the Judgment Fund Transparency and Terrorism Financing Prevention Act, a bill to provide transparency and accountability for questionable taxpayer-funded payments to foreign nations, like Iran. On June 29, Lankford secured a provision in the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations bill to require the Administration to provide more details on the $1.7 billion legal settlement payment to Iran in January. The legislation awaits a vote on the Senate floor later this year. On April 6, Lankford introduced a Senate resolution to ensure President Obama follows through on his commitment to reimpose sanctions if Iran violates the Nuclear Deal. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-congress-should-repeal-renewable-fuel-standard-program | Senator Lankford: Congress Should Repeal Renewable Fuel Standard Program | 2016-12-01 | 2016 | 2016-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.01.16 Senator Lankford: Congress Should Repeal Renewable Fuel Standard Program Hearing With EPA, GAO Examines Problems With RFS Program WASHINGTON, DC The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management, under the chairmanship of Senator James Lankford (R-OK), today held a hearing to examine the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) management of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and discuss two Government Accountability Office reports about the program released earlier this week. The first report shows that the RFS program is unlikely to meet its targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and expanding the US renewable fuels sector. The second report shows that low expected production volumes make it unlikely that advanced biofuels can meet the RFS program's increasing targets through 2022. Witnesses for today's hearing included: EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation Janet McCabe and GAO Director of Natural Resources and Environment Frank Rusco. The ethanol Renewable Fuel Standard mandates have been unrealistic from the start, and that is exactly what this week's GAO report affirmed, said Lankford. The EPA's inability to release ethanol fuel blend requirements has created significant uncertainty and great challenges for blenders and biofuel producers. The RFS program isn't meeting the greenhouse gas emission goals, it is unsustainable, and it yields few benefits, while it has inflicted substantial costs on consumers. The renewable fuel standard mandate simply doesn't work. Just like Congress has done with No Child Left Behind education mandates with the passage of Every Student Succeeds Act this year, it is time for Congress to repeal the Renewable Fuel Standard mandate. During his opening statement, Director Rusco said, The RFS is expected to fall short of its goals because of limited production of advanced biofuels and relia… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-russell-cole-and-industry-leaders-praise-senate-passage | Inhofe, Lankford, Russell, Cole and Industry Leaders Praise Senate Passage of H.R. 5785 | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla) and Congressmen Steve Russell (R-Okla.) and Tom Cole (R-Okla.), today praised the passage of H.R. 5785, a bill which would ensure the continued safety of our nation’s airways by eliminating an unintended barrier to the hiring and retention of full-time Air Traffic Controller (ATC) Instructors. The bill removes a financial penalty for instructors willing to work full time in training our next generation of air traffic controllers. “Today’s passage of the Air Traffic Controller Instructor Bill ensures the next generation of air traffic controllers is prepared to manage the complicated network of air traffic in the National Airspace System,” Inhofe said. “This legislation removes government red tape impeding efforts by the private sector to recruit and retain the highest quality full-time air traffic controller instructors to teach at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and provide on the job training at airports across the country. I appreciate the support of my colleagues in passing this legislation that will provide future air traffic controllers a consistent training environment with experienced instructors.” “The passage of Congressman Russell’s bill will mean the FAA will be able to continue hiring new air traffic controllers to address the staffing shortages that exist across the nation,” Lankford said. “This bill was vital for the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, and the training they provide for new controllers that will report to control towers and en route centers all across America. It is very important that we keep experienced air traffic control instructors to teach a new generation of air traffic control students.” “I am proud to see this bill head to the President’s desk to be signed into law,” Russell said. “We will now help ensure that the best air traffic control instructors are incentivized to work full time, rather than penalized for investing in the next generation of controllers. This will lead to safer skies, not only in our… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-russell-cole-and-industry-leaders-praise-senate-passage | INHOFE, LANKFORD, RUSSELL, COLE AND INDUSTRY LEADERS PRAISE SENATE PASSAGE OF H.R. 5785 | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington, DC – U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla) and Congressmen Steve Russell (R-Okla.) and Tom Cole (R-Okla.), today praised the passage of H.R. 5785, a bill which would ensure the continued safety of our nation’s airways by eliminating an unintended barrier to the hiring and retention of full-time Air Traffic Controller (ATC) Instructors. The bill removes a financial penalty for instructors willing to work full time in training our next generation of air traffic controllers. “Today’s passage of the Air Traffic Controller Instructor Bill ensures the next generation of air traffic controllers is prepared to manage the complicated network of air traffic in the National Airspace System,” Inhofe said. “This legislation removes government red tape impeding efforts by the private sector to recruit and retain the highest quality full-time air traffic controller instructors to teach at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and provide on the job training at airports across the country. I appreciate the support of my colleagues in passing this legislation that will provide future air traffic controllers a consistent training environment with experienced instructors.” “The passage of Congressman Russell’s bill will mean the FAA will be able to continue hiring new air traffic controllers to address the staffing shortages that exist across the nation,” Lankford said. “This bill was vital for the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, and the training they provide for new controllers that will report to control towers and en route centers all across America. It is very important that we keep experienced air traffic control instructors to teach a new generation of air traffic control students.” “I am proud to see this bill head to the President’s desk to be signed into law,” Russell said. “We will now help ensure that the best air traffic control instructors are incentivized to work full time, rather than penalized for investing in the next generation of controllers. This will lead to safer skies, not o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-russell-cole-and-industry-leaders-praise-senate-passage-of-hr-5785 | Inhofe, Lankford, Russell, Cole and Industry Leaders Praise Senate Passage of H.R. 5785 | 2016-11-30 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford, Russell, Cole and Industry Leaders Praise Senate Passage of H.R. 5785 Wednesday, November 30, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla) and Congressmen Steve Russell (R-Okla.) and Tom Cole (R-Okla.), today praised the passage of H.R. 5785, a bill which would ensure the continued safety of our nation’s airways by eliminating an unintended barrier to the hiring and retention of full-time Air Traffic Controller (ATC) Instructors. The bill removes a financial penalty for instructors willing to work full time in training our next generation of air traffic controllers. “Today’s passage of the Air Traffic Controller Instructor Bill ensures the next generation of air traffic controllers is prepared to manage the complicated network of air traffic in the National Airspace System,” Inhofe said. “This legislation removes government red tape impeding efforts by the private sector to recruit and retain the highest quality full-time air traffic controller instructors to teach at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City and provide on the job training at airports across the country. I appreciate the support of my colleagues in passing this legislation that will provide future air traffic controllers a consistent training environment with experienced instructors.” “The passage of Congressman Russell’s bill will mean the FAA will be able to continue hiring new air traffic controllers to address the staffing shortages that exist across the nation,” Lankford said. “This bill was vital for the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, and the training they provide for new controllers that will report to control towers and en route centers all across America. It is very important that we keep experienced air traffic control instructors to teach a new generation of air traffic control students.” “I am proud to see this bill head to the President’s desk to be signed into law,” Russell said. “We will now help ensure that the best air traffic control instructo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-praises-nomination-betsy-devos-and-chairman-tom-price-cabinet | Cole Praises Nomination of Betsy DeVos and Chairman Tom Price for Cabinet Positions | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after President-Elect Donald Trump nominated Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education and Congressman Tom Price (GA-06) as Secretary of Health and Human Services. “As Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the budget for the Departments of Education and Health and Human Services, I want to congratulate President-Elect Trump on selecting two excellent choices for his cabinet. These two outstanding leaders are well-versed in their fields, and will bring much needed change for our education and healthcare systems,” said Cole. “Having been friends with Betsy DeVos for years, I know she believes strongly in the rights of parents to direct the education and upbringing of their children with minimal interference from the government. Like me, she is an advocate of charter schools, vouchers, opportunity scholarships and homeschooling. Her steady leadership and depth of knowledge will be fundamental in improving our nation’s education system,” continued Cole. “My colleague, Chairman Tom Price, is uniquely qualified to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. He has been a central part of our leadership in Congress, and will excel in leading our nation’s healthcare reform. As an expert in medicine and health, I am confident in his ability to lead this agency, and to finally repeal and replace Obamacare.” “I know that these two candidates will be exceptional public servants, and I am looking forward to witnessing the great work that they will do to help improve the lives of all Americans,” concluded Cole. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-elaine-chao-for-secretary-of-transportation | Inhofe Statement on Elaine Chao for Secretary of Transportation | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Elaine Chao for Secretary of Transportation Tuesday, November 29, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate Elaine Chao to be secretary of transportation. “By selecting Elaine Chao as his choice for secretary of transportation, President-elect Trump confirms his interest in addressing our nation’s infrastructure needs head on,” Inhofe said. “Chao is a fantastic pick for this role; she is ambitious and her prior cabinet experience will no doubt help her accomplish the goals the President-elect has set. I have known Elaine for many decades as a dedicated civil servant, a talented negotiator and have no doubt she will again prove to be a highly effective asset to the executive branch. I look forward to working with her on critical infrastructure issues again. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-votes-for-echo-act | Inhofe Votes for ECHO Act | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Votes for ECHO Act Tuesday, November 29, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today voted for S. 2873, the Expanding Capacity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act, which requires the Department of Health to study models that use interactive videoconferencing to link specialist teams with primary care providers in rural and underserved areas. This bill passed the Senate 97-0. “I am proud to have co-sponsored and voted for the ECHO Act,” Inhofe said. “Using technology to improve access to specialized health care is critical to rural communities in Oklahoma. Equipping physicians in these areas with interactive videoconferencing technologies means geographic location doesn’t determine whether or not a patient can receive the care they require. This legislation will help rural physicians as well by enabling them to learn more about diseases and conditions affecting patients in their area. I am proud my colleagues in the Senate have voted to pass this important measure.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-requested-gao-reports-prove-rfs-standard-is-unrealistic-and-ineffective | Lankford-Requested GAO Reports Prove RFS Standard Is Unrealistic and Ineffective | 2016-11-29 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.29.16 Lankford-Requested GAO Reports Prove RFS Standard Is Unrealistic and Ineffective Subcommittee to Hold Thursday Hearing on Newly Released GAO Reports WASHINGTON, DC The Government Accountability Office (GAO) today released two reports requested by Senator James Lankford (R-OK)a year ago on the long term feasibility of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. The first report shows that the RFS program is unlikely to meet its targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and expanding the US renewable fuels sector. The second report shows that low expected production volumes make it unlikely that advanced biofuels can meet increasing targets. On Thursday, at 2:30pm ET, Lankford will chair a Senate Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management hearingto examine both of these reports. The renewable fuel standard mandates are unrealistic and have caused higher fuel prices for consumers, said Lankford. The RFS mandate is unattainable, so it has led to arbitrary EPA regulations, uncertainty and great challenges for refiners and biofuel producers. The RFS is typical of many federal programs where expectations are not met, yet we continue down a path of federal mandates instead of simply recognizing that the directive will not work. We should repeal the RFS and allow ethanol producers to continue to provide their quality product to the market without the mandates, billions of dollars in taxpayer subsidies, and artificial RIN markets. The report also shows that advanced biofuelsfuels that achieve the most greenhouse gas reductionsaren't being produced at the necessary levels, and they likely will not be by 2022. Also, less than 5 percent of the 3 billion gallon cellulosic advanced biofuel RFS target was produced in 2015, and additional investments for commercialization seem unlikely. Highlights From The Reports: Program Unlikely to Meet Its Targets for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: It … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/finish-job | Finish the Job | 2016-11-28 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | As the 114th session of Congress begins to come to a close, many people – myself included - lament the time between now and the end of the year, also known as a “lame duck” session. Some believe that nothing should done until the new Congress and new President are sworn into office. Others believe this Congress should finish their jobs by passing a series of appropriations bills that have complied with the Budget Control Act. Contrary to many of the assumptions that are made about a lame duck session, much of that work has already been done - Congress just needs to complete our responsibility. A lame duck should not be a time where nearly completed bills are simply left unfinished. It’s a time to continue the hard, real work that we started in January of 2015. Perhaps second only to homeland and national security, the most fundamental responsibility of the Congress is to make sure we pass a budget, stick to that budget throughout the appropriations process, and make sure we don’t face yet another government shutdown. A government shutdown is an irresponsible option that should be considered unthinkable, and we must prevent it from happening before December 9th. The easy way to avoid this is to simply pass what is known as a continuing resolution. Think of it as cruise control or auto pilot. Each federal agency will get exactly what they received in Fiscal Year 2016. And while that might seem like an acceptable outcome, I fundamentally disagree. I believe the American voters sent a very clear message on November 8th that the status quo will no longer be acceptable. Yet that is precisely what a continuing resolution will mean. I believe the majority of voters believe we need to make our armed forces stronger, not to weaken them through sequester. Many of the people I have visited with in the Fourth District of Oklahoma believe the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Labor – just to name a couple – need to have their wings clipped by reducing the amount we spend on those departments in … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-letter-federal-fumbles-2016 | Lankford Letter: Federal Fumbles 2016 | 2016-11-28 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.28.16 Lankford Letter: Federal Fumbles 2016 CLICK HERE for the November 28, 2016 Federal Fumbles Lankford Letter. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-releases-federal-fumbles-govt-waste-report | Senator Lankford Releases Federal Fumbles Govt Waste Report | 2016-11-28 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.28.16 Senator Lankford Releases Federal Fumbles Gov't Waste Report WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford today released his second annual government waste and solutions report called, Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball. The report represents $247 billion in wasteful and inefficient federal spending and regulations, but also includes solutions to each of the examples of government waste. CLICK HERE to access the report. The American people have signaled a bold new direction for Washington with the election of President-elect Donald Trump, said Lankford. Although the federal debt wasn't a major focus during the presidential campaign, it remains a serious impending crisis that must be addressed. In Fiscal Year 2016 alone, we had a $587 billion deficit and our federal debt is now an outrageous $19.5 trillion. To lower the debt, we need to grow the economy, and we must root out inefficiencies, duplication, and wasteful spending wherever they exist. This Federal Fumbles' report provides specific examples of wasteful spending and unnecessary regulations that are not in the taxpayer's best interest. Lankford released the report during a press conference in Washington, DC this morning. CLICK HERE to play video. Senator Lankford Excerpts from Press Conference: This is the way the federal government has dropped the ball, and what we are trying to focus in on, is not trying to pick on one particular agency or entity, but to say we have got to be able to pay attention. We are really dealing with four different main areas as we walk through this; grants that need oversight, regulations and regulators that need oversight, agency bureaucracy and inefficiency, and then a lack of coordination between agencies. We are not just trying to raise the problem; we are also trying to raise how you solve it. Whether it is an administration action, whether it is a piece of legislation, whether it is just coordination between the two, or some of those things that have already happened, but we haven… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-james-lankford-statement-on-court-delay-of-federal-overtime-rule | Senator James Lankford Statement on Court Delay of Federal Overtime Rule | 2016-11-22 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.22.16 Senator James Lankford Statement on Court Delay of Federal Overtime Rule Federal Judge Blocks Overtime Rule Days Before December 1 Implementation OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today made the following statement on a Texas Federal District Judge granting an emergency injunction against the Labor Department's federal overtime rule: I am pleased that a Federal District Judge has, yet again, pumped the brakes on another harmful regulation from the Obama administration. This federal overtime rule is devastating for small businesses, colleges and nonprofits all across America, but particularly in states with a low cost-of-living. The economic realities and regional cost-of-living differences that exist throughout the country were completely ignored by the Department of Labor on this proposal. I am hopeful that this rule can be brought back to the drawing board for a new rule-making process that works for the entire nation. On September 29, Lankford introduced legislation to delay the rule from its current implementation date of December 1, 2016 to June 1, 2017. Lankford also co-sponsored legislation to change the timeline for implementation of the overtime rule. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/time-be-grateful | A Time to be Grateful | 2016-11-21 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | The past few weeks have brought profound and monumental change to the United States. While America remains a deeply divided country from a political standpoint, we all have many blessings to reflect upon – individually and collectively. I know my family and I do. Thanksgiving is a treasured time to gather with family and friends and to celebrate this time-honored American tradition. Although the story of Thanksgiving that most Americans allude to involves the first colonists and Native Americans, the designation of celebrating this day as a federal holiday came over a century later. This national holiday received its first federal recognition from George Washington in 1789, as a day for Americans to show gratitude for the era of a new nation. Other presidents such as John Adams and James Madison also participated in proclaiming a “day of thanks.” Thanksgiving did not become an official holiday until President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it in 1863. President Lincoln was faced with a nation burdened by war, and designated Thanksgiving to be a day to pray for those suffering from war and to “heal the wounds of the nation.” This Thanksgiving, we would be wise to emulate his admonishment and reflect on the blessings that we have as citizens of the United States of America. This Thanksgiving, I’ll be reflecting on the hope for a unified America and a nation that is on its way to greater prosperity. In the coming months we will take steps to make health care more affordable and accessible to all Americans. Many onerous federal regulations on businesses will be eliminated, so that our economy can grow and more Americans can get back to work. And our tax system will be reformed in a way that will treat individuals and small businesses in a simpler and more equitable way. With many challenges facing our nation, I believe Congress is ready to roll up our shirt sleeves and get to work in January with a new President and a fresh outlook. I realize there a number of our fellow citizens who are disappointed in the res… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-remembers-larry-derryberry | Inhofe Remembers Larry Derryberry | 2016-11-20 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Remembers Larry Derryberry Sunday, November 20, 2016 WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), today released a statement remembering former Oklahoma Attorney General, Larry Derryberry: "Larry Derryberry has been a close friend for many years and my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time," Inhofe said. "When I was elected, Larry was in the leadership for Democrats but nonetheless he and I became fast friends and our friendship has endured throughout the years. Larry's legacy and service to the state of Oklahoma will be remembered for many years to come." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-sen-sessions-for-attorney-general | Inhofe Statement on Sen. Sessions for Attorney General | 2016-11-18 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on Sen. Sessions for Attorney General Friday, November 18, 2016 WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today released a statement in support of President-elect Trump's announcement of his intention to nominate Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) to be attorney general of the United States: "I am pleased that President-elect Trump has announced his intention to nominate my good friend and colleague Jeff Sessions as attorney general," Inhofe said. "Sen. Sessions and I have worked closely together in the Senate for the last 20 years on the Armed Services and Environment & Public Works Committees. He is well respected on both sides of the aisle, in his home state of Alabama, and across the country. Sen. Session's experience as well as his deep respect for the rule of law leave no doubt in my mind that he is an excellent pick for attorney general." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/november-18_-lankford-letter | November 18 - Lankford Letter | 2016-11-18 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.18.16 November 18 - Lankford Letter CLICK HERE for the November 18, 2016 Lankford Letter. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-russell-s-federal-register-printing-savings-act-passes-out | Congressman Russells Federal Register Printing Savings Act Passes Out of OGR | 2016-11-17 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Washington DC, - Congressman Steve Russell’s (OK-5) Federal Register Printing Savings Act of 2016, passed by unanimous consent out of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee. In his continuing effort to cut federal spending, Congressman Russell authored legislation to prohibit the mandatory printing and distribution of the Federal Register, saving hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. The register is provided digitally and is also printed each day whether members want it or not. Under the Russell legislation, all members of Congress and committee offices will no longer receive automatic printed copies of the Federal Register. They can still request to receive a hard copy by exception, and a small number of hard copies of each Federal Register will still be printed and maintained for archival purposes. An annual subscription to the Federal Register costs $929, but members of Congress receive their copies for free, costing taxpayers more than a half a million dollars each year. Most of these printed copies end up in the trash because the register is online and can be searched as a database. Congressman Russell’s measure will save hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars every year. “When I think of how many Americans it takes to earn the money to waste on this mandatory printed register, it gives me motivation to fight waste even more,” Congressman Russell said. “We got into our national debt one wasteful practice at a time, and we will get out of it one sensible measure at a time. Every time we can save money, no matter how much, it begins to make our nation stronger.” In 2016, Congressman Russell, author of Waste Watch, introduced measures that would save more than $21 billion, with more than $4 billion worth of cost cutting measures signed into law. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-king-urge-president-elect-trump-to-quickly-nominate-director-of-national-intelligence | Senators Lankford, King Urge President-elect Trump to Quickly Nominate Director of National Intelligence | 2016-11-17 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.17.16 Senators Lankford, King Urge President-elect Trump to Quickly Nominate Director of National Intelligence WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and Angus King (I-ME), members of the Senate Intelligence Committee, today sent a letter to President-elect Donald Trump urging him to prioritize the nomination of the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and to select an experienced, collaborative individual who can advise on the nomination of other intelligence agency leaders. A successful DNI makes the intelligence community more efficient, more collaborative, limits redundancies, and advances seamless information sharing across our intelligence agencies, Senators King and Lankford wrote in their letter. As members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, we strongly encourage you to nominate an experienced DNI that can serve these functions and build an intelligence community leadership team that will put a high value on collaboration. Most importantly, if selected early, your DNI could advise on candidates for directors of the intelligence agencies he or she will work with most often. Lankford is the only Senator on both the Intelligence Committee and Homeland Security Committee. A PDF of the letter is available here, and the full text is below: November 17, 2016 The Honorable Donald J. Trump The President-elect 1717 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20006 Dear Mr. Trump: Congratulations on your recent election. As you undertake the important work of preparing for the presidential transition and your future intelligence team, we are writing to ask that you prioritize the nomination of the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI). In response to the 9/11 attacks, Congress created the position of the DNI to serve as the head of the intelligence community and establish an integrated framework to promote a more effective intelligence apparatus for our country. A successful DNI makes the intelligence community more efficient, more collaborative, limits … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-invites-oklahomans-to-request-tickets-for-2017-presidential-inauguration | Senator Lankford Invites Oklahomans to Request Tickets for 2017 Presidential Inauguration | 2016-11-16 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.16.16 Senator Lankford Invites Oklahomans to Request Tickets for 2017 Presidential Inauguration WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released information for Oklahomans interested in attending the 58th Presidential Inauguration on Friday, January 20, 2017. President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn in as the 45th President of the United States at the Inauguration. Each US Senate and Congressional Office will receive a small number of tickets for the ceremony. Tickets available are for standing room only access to the West Lawn of the US Capitol.Oklahomans interested in attending the inauguration should submit a request on Lankford's website by Friday, December 16. All submissions will be entered into a lottery; winners will be notified in writing by Wednesday, December 21. Individuals who do not obtain tickets can still view the Inauguration on giant video screens for spectators along the length of the National Mall. CLICK HERE to submit a ticket request on Lankford's website. On Inauguration day, Lankford will host an open house, similar to his weekly Java with James reception, for visitors from Oklahoma in his office in the Senate Hart Building, Room 316. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-votes-for-gold-star-families-voices-act | Inhofe Votes for Gold Star Families Voices Act | 2016-11-15 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Votes for Gold Star Families Voices Act Tuesday, November 15, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today voted for H.R. 4511, The Gold Star Families Voices Act, which authorizes the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP) to collect audio and video recordings of biographical histories by immediate family members of service members who died as a result of their wartime service or became missing in action. “I am proud to vote for the Gold Star Families Voice Act so that the legacies of our service members who made the ultimate sacrifice are remembered,” Inhofe said. “By allowing our Gold Star families to provide accounts and histories of these heroes, we ensure their lives are memorialized for generations to come.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-to-release-second-federal-fumbles-govt-waste-report | Senator Lankford to Release Second Federal Fumbles Govt Waste Report | 2016-11-14 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.14.16 Senator Lankford to Release Second Federal Fumbles Gov't Waste Report Lankford Encourages New Republican-Led Washington To Not Forget About Growing Federal Debt WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today announced that he will release a second Federal Fumbles government waste and solutions report on November 28. Lankford's 2015 report, called Federal Fumbles: 100 ways the government dropped the ball, identified $105 billion in wasteful federal spending, and about $800 billion in negative regulatory impact to the economy. This year's report will identify new examples of waste and duplication in government. The American people have signaled a bold new direction for Washington with the election of President-elect Donald Trump, said Lankford. Although the federal debt wasn't a major focus during the presidential campaign, it remains a serious impending crisis that will hurt job growth, social safety net programs, and the ability for America to remain a world leader. The federal debt is now approaching a staggering $20 trillion. Since I came to Washington in 2010, our Republican-controlled Congress has reduced our annual deficit, however, we haven't had a willing partner in the White House to make bold changes to stop the rising debt. Last year, our federal government spent $223 billion, or 6 percent of all discretionary spending, on debt interest payments alone. By the start of the next decade, we will spend more on debt interest than we do on our national defense. To lower the debt, we need to grow the economy, and we must root out inefficiencies, duplication, and wasteful spending wherever they exist. This Federal Fumbles' report will provide specific examples of wasteful spending and unnecessary regulations that are not in the taxpayer's best interest, and show specific solutions for how the federal government can become more efficient. We had some small victories, over the last year, from … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lucas.house.gov/frankly-speaking/tinker-and-oklahoma%E2%80%99s-legacy-service | Tinker and Oklahomas Legacy of Service | 2016-11-11 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | “An Osage leader is never at the back of his band of warriors” – Dr. James Crowder, historian at Tinker Air Force Base Clarence Leonard Tinker was the first Native American to attain the rank of Major General. Growing up in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, he revered the heroism of Osage military veterans and idolized the legends of Osage bravery in warfare. As a Major General during the Second World War, Clarence Tinker was not expected to enter direct combat, let alone lead a unit headfirst into front lines. Yet Tinker’s Osage upbringing instilled in him the importance of leading the fight himself. Sadly, Clarence was the first General to die in combat during WWII. He was shot down June 7, 1942 while flying a mission over the Pacific during the Battle of Midway. Tinker’s values were rooted in his Oklahoma upbringing. He spoke the Osage language and always maintained a close relationship with his father throughout his entire life. Today, the Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City bears the namesake of Major General Clarence Tinker. It is home to the 72nd Air Base Wing, providing material, support, and logistics for our nation’s armed forces. They have established themselves as an indispensable component of our country’s defense apparatus. Which is why it’s fitting the base is named after an Oklahoman who broke barriers, demonstrated tremendous leadership, and courageously laid down his life in combat. Those who serve at Tinker are representatives of the Oklahoma Way. They were some of the first responders at the Murrah building in the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing. And when so many homes and businesses were destroyed in the wake of the tornado in May 1999, Tinker servicemen and women were immediately on the ground providing humanitarian aid and support. Veteran’s Day is a moment to reflect on the legacy of those, like Maj. Gen. Tinker, who served our country. It’s a day to reflect on their sacrifices, their selflessness and their sense of duty that prompted them to join our nation’s armed ser… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/veterans-day | Protecting Those Who Have Protected Us | 2016-11-10 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | One of our most sacred, if not the most sacred American holiday is Veteran’s Day – the day we honor those who have served to protect our nation, and especially those who have paid the ultimate price to defend and preserve our freedoms. Veteran's Day began as “Armistice Day” in 1919. For decades it has drawn crowds to the many military memorials scattered across our nation. In a time of division and acrimony in our nation’s political discourse, I believe that there is one unifying sentiment that will always endure – the determination to honor and support our the men and women who have fought to defend our country and protect our liberty. Our nation has experienced danger and threats throughout its history. Many wars have been fought, and sadly, many lives have been lost in the defense of freedom. In recent years Americans have witnessed a challenging security environment. At the same time, the federal government has fallen short in keeping its commitments to many of our twenty five million veterans. With growing threats around the world, reductions in our defense budget, and detrimental problems with our Veterans Affairs agency, Congress and the next administration face the task of repairing the broken parts of our military establishment and our veteran's services. I consider it a privilege and an honor to have two important military bases in my district. Fort Sill Army Post is home to the United States Army Field Artillery School, and Tinker Air Force Base is the most important maintenance and repair air depot in the world. Meeting with many leaders and members of these military installations has given me an in-depth perspective and insight on the issues and needs our military face. Providing substantial assistance to our men and women in uniform, both retired and currently serving, is the highest priority in my daily work. Congress has made substantial strides in ensuring that our veterans are well taken care of, and that any pressing concerns are swiftly fixed. We have introduced many pieces of legislation t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-ahead-of-veterans-day | Inhofe Statement Ahead of Veterans Day | 2016-11-10 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement Ahead of Veterans Day Thursday, November 10, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today in recognition of Veterans Day: “This Veterans Day we pause to honor the men and women who have faithfully served and protected the liberties and freedoms we hold dear as Americans. These patriots and their families have made great sacrifices for our freedoms, many having paid the ultimate price – a constant reminder that freedom isn’t free. As a nation we must work continuously to ensure our national security, for which our veterans fought so hard to defend, remains as strong as ever and resilient to the increasing global threats to our life, liberty and freedom.” | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-announces-new-communications-director | Inhofe Announces New Communications Director | 2016-11-09 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today announced that Daisy Letendre will serve as his Communications Director, starting Thursday. Letendre has served in various press roles on the Senate (EPW) Environment and Public Works Committee, with her most recent title being press secretary for Chairman Inhofe. She replaces Donelle Harder, who has been serving as Communications Director for both the personal office and for the EPW Committee and will be moving on for a new opportunity in Oklahoma City. “Daisy is a talented individual who has effectively and proactively communicated my top legislative priorities while I have been chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee,” Inhofe said. “My top priority is to ensure Oklahomans are well informed of my efforts in the U.S. Senate, and I know Daisy will work hard to make this happen. She is a personable individual and gifted writer who will fill an important role on my team.” Prior to being press secretary on the EPW Committee, Letendre served as the new media director for the committee and as a communications associate for Generation Opportunity. Letendre graduated from Trinity College-Hartford with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and philosophy. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-2016-election-results | Inhofe Statement on 2016 Election Results | 2016-11-09 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Statement on 2016 Election Results Wednesday, November 9, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement on the 2016 elections: “Congratulations to President-elect Donald J. Trump who the American people voted to serve this great nation as our 45th president. A Republican-led Congress is ready to work with Trump and move our nation forward with a platform that promotes economic opportunity for all, values life at every stage, and is committed to bringing about peace and stability by strengthening our own national security. It was a privilege to serve on Trump's National Security Advisory Board. When I met with him in person, he was eager to listen to experts and weigh the facts presented to him, and I’m confident he will continue to do this now as president. I look forward to working with his administration on critical issues such as improving our nation’s infrastructure, ending a economically destructive era of federal overregulation, unlocking more of America’s energy, and rebuilding our military." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-statement-on-2016-presidential-election | Senator Lankford Statement on 2016 Presidential Election | 2016-11-09 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.09.16 Senator Lankford Statement on 2016 Presidential Election OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) issued the following statement on the results of last night's elections: "I congratulate President-Elect Trump and Vice President-Elect Pence on a solid victory. The American people have spoken. It is clear that they are tired of top-down mandates from Washington, extreme executive overreach, excessive regulations and weak foreign policy. Now, with a Republican-controlled Congress and a Republican in the White House, it is time to address the real concerns of the American people. Our nation is divided, but we must unite to solve the multitude of issues we face in our country." ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-invites-oklahoma-students-to-apply-for-senate-page-program | Inhofe Invites Oklahoma Students to Apply for Senate Page Program | 2016-11-08 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Invites Oklahoma Students to Apply for Senate Page Program Tuesday, November 8, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) announced today that his office is accepting applications to the U.S. Senate Page Program from now until Dec. 10, 2016. Rising high school juniors or seniors will have an opportunity to apply to be part of the page program for the spring 2017 session, which starts on Jan. 30, 2017. The Senate Page Program provides a unique opportunity for high school students who have a desire to learn and contribute to our nation’s legislative process. Selected students work with some of the nation’s most prominent leaders in a capacity which allows them to experience a variety of new ideas, perspectives, and issues. Page duties consist primarily of delivering correspondence and legislative material within the Congressional Complex. Other duties include taking messages for Members, calling them to the phone, preparing the Chamber for Senate sessions, and carrying bills and amendments to the desk. “The Page Program is a unique opportunity for Oklahoma’s youth to come experience the day-to-day inner workings of Congress,” Inhofe said. “Unlike interns, pages spend a majority of their time on the Senate floor working with every Member, handling legislative material and helping to deliver correspondence. They are on the front lines of history in the making." To apply for the Senate Page Program through Senator Inhofe’s office, you must be an Oklahoma resident, a junior in high school who will be 16 or 17 years of age, but not yet 18 years old on or before the date of appointment, and have a minimum 3.0 grade point average. Oklahoma applicants need to complete the online application. For any questions or for further assistance, please contact Inhofe’s office at (202) 224-4721. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/proud-heritage | A Proud Heritage | 2016-11-07 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | The life and culture of our nation’s Native American tribes are written in nearly every chapter of America’s story. It is rich with the traditions, languages, changes, notable names, and much more. Although we honor those legacies and traditions this month, we remember the contributions that our Native American ancestors brought before us every day. It is an honor and a privilege to be a member of the Chickasaw Nation, and a true blessing to have been surrounded by family members who were active in representing and preserving our heritage. My great, great grandfather served as the Chief 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 Native American storyteller and performer who had many opportunities to display her talents across the world, even for the President of the United States and the King and Queen of Great Britain. And I am most proud of my mother, Helen Cole, who has been the greatest influence in my life – she was the first Native American woman elected to the Oklahoma State Senate. Each time I walk into my office, I am reminded of the greater role that Native Americans have played in creating the relationship that our federal government and tribes have today, as well as their many contributions to our society. I am fortunate that I’ve been given the honor to represent Native Americans, and to have met many members and leaders of various tribes across the United States. Although I belong to the Chickasaw Nation, many tribes have walked through my office doors, and I make it a priority that they are well represented in Congress. In 1990, then President George H.W. Bush designated the month of November as "National American Indian Heritage Month." Numerous strides have been made since then in recognizing the many contributions Native Americans have made to our country, and the federal government and tribes have made significant strides towards building a stronger, more respectful relationship wit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bicameral-bipartisan-group-of-84-members-of-congress-urge-faa-to-implement-intent-of-third-class-medical-reform | Bicameral, Bipartisan Group of 84 Members of Congress Urge FAA to Implement Intent of Third Class Medical Reform | 2016-11-02 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Bicameral, Bipartisan Group of 84 Members of Congress Urge FAA to Implement Intent of Third Class Medical Reform Wednesday, November 2, 2016 WASHINGTON – A bipartisan, bicameral group of 84 Members of Congress sent letters on Wednesday to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Adm. Michael Huerta encouraging the agency to implement new regulations that follow Congress’ intent of the third class medical reform language signed into law on July 15, 2016, as part of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016. U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), authors of the Pilot’s Bill of Rights 2, led the Senate letter with 26 signatures, which can be read by clicking here. U.S. Rep. Todd Rokita (R-Ind.) and U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.) led the House letter with 58 signatures, which can be read by clicking here. In both letters, the Members wrote: “We encourage the FAA to ensure that these regulations follow the intent of the new law, which is to remove bureaucracy, red tape, cost, and delays from the cumbersome process that exists today while maintaining a safe general aviation pilot population. Moreover, this bipartisan compromise also relies on the education of general aviation pilots with respect to aeromedical awareness. “As you know, a 2014 safety enhancement, implemented by the FAA-Industry General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC) led the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association’s Air Safety Institute to develop a medical education course that can be used by all pilots for free, regardless of certification level, to educate them on medical fitness and certain health conditions that could impact the safe operations of an aircraft. The intent of the authors was to use this course to fulfill the requirements included in the statute. “We also understand that the course recommendations were developed by medical subject matter experts in partnership with the FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine and that the Agency will again review the AOPA… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://lucas.house.gov/frankly-speaking/president-obama%E2%80%99s-final-100-days-office | President Obamas Final 100 Days in Office | 2016-11-01 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Frank Lucas | L000491 | lucas.house.gov | legacy | Abraham Lincoln once commented, “Elections belong to the people. It’s their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will have to sit on their blisters.” With two of the most unpopular candidates in recent memory, Lincoln’s observation is fitting. If you were to pick solely on personality or likeability, you might not vote for either candidate in this election. In town hall meetings, my constituents have expressed the notion that politics is all about shades of gray because there is never any difference. While that may sometimes hold true, I can say with confidence that this time around, there is indeed a difference. President Obama is entering his final 100 days in office. In his first two years we got Obamacare, a law that raised the costs of healthcare and delivered so much less. We also saw the passage of Dodd-Frank, a regulatory framework that has torn the financial services industry to shreds. And towards the end of the president’s second term, we saw the beginnings of cap and trade, as federal agencies work with foreign entities to increase control over the production and consumption of our energy. But this election is not just a referendum on these policies. The next president should also be judged by the individuals they entrust with power. Today there are roughly 4,000 political appointees selected by the president to carry out the administration’s agenda. These individuals represent agencies ranging from the Department of Agriculture to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They are the apparatus that executes many of the president’s unilateral actions, such as EPA’s unpopular Waters of the U.S. rule that has impacted the agriculture, energy and construction industries here in Oklahoma. Presidential appointees are not accountable to the American voters, and in many cases, not even your elected representatives. Apart from the Senate nomination process, Congress has relatively limited oversight or legislative control over these… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://russell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-russell-releases-statement-rising-obamcare-costs | Congressman Russell Releases Statement on Rising Obamcare Costs | 2016-11-01 | 2016 | 2016-11 | Republican | House | OK | Steve Russell | R000604 | russell.house.gov | legacy | Del City, OK – Congressman Steve Russell offered the following statement regarding the increasing healthcare costs in Oklahoma and across the country: “All across the country we are seeing reports of drastic healthcare premium rate increases. Oklahoma is projected to have the highest healthcare premium increase in the nation, as much as 96% for some plans, and with an average increase of 76% due to the federal exchange. This is totally unacceptable. Neither is it surprising. Republicans have been warning all Americans about this since before this dreadful law was enacted and vindicates why Obamacare needs to be repealed and replaced. The people of Oklahoma and all across the country have a right to their own choices for good affordable healthcare. Obamacare is not it." ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/rule-can-put-you-out-business | This Rule Can Put You Out of Business | 2016-10-31 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | In a little more than six weeks, a new labor rule governing overtime pay for salaried workers is set to take effect. Like many of his economic policies, this is another example of the President’s fundamental lack of understanding of the free market and the job killing aspects of overbearing federal regulations. While he may think this new rule will result in a higher take home pay for middle class workers, it is more likely to force many workers to “punch a clock” and lose the flexibility that a salary provides. Contrary to what this administration seems to believe, businesses, especially small businesses, are not charities. Entrepreneurs know that keeping up morale among their employees is essential to their success. But they also know that making a profit is as well. No profits mean fewer jobs and lower pay. Current overtime rules require any salaried employee making less than $23,660 annually, or approximately $11.38 cents per hour based on a 40 hour week, to be paid time and a half for every hour over 40 hours that they work in a week - approximately $17.07 per additional hour. The new overtime rule set to go into effect on December 1st will increase that salary threshold to $47,476, or approximately $22.82 per hour. Overtime pay for these employees will be $34.24 per hour. For many salaried American workers this may initially look like a good thing. It will undoubtedly put more take home pay in their pockets - but at what cost? One of the unintended consequences of this rule will be the additional cost to employers to keep meticulous records of exactly how much time their employees making less than $47,476 are working each week. That money comes out of the business owners' profit so there will be less money to pay their workers. More onerously however is the fact that these employees now will have to “punch a clock,” and employers will be incentivized to make sure as few as possible of their salaried employees, many of whom are managers, work no more than 40 hours per week. Furthermore, the fl… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-responds-fbis-second-investigation-secretary-clinton | Cole Responds to FBI's Second Investigation on Secretary Clinton | 2016-10-28 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Norman, OK – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the FBI announced that it will reopen its investigation into Secretary Hilary Clinton’s use of an email server. Previously, the FBI had stated that it would not take any action against Secretary Clinton after its first investigation. “Secretary Clinton is not above the law, and this should have been the case months ago after the FBI’s initial investigation,” said Cole. “I’m glad that the FBI has realized that their work is not done, and that Secretary Clinton’s use of her email server was irresponsible, untrustworthy and quite possibly illegal. FBI Director James Comey described her actions as ‘careless’ at the end of the initial investigation – but that sort of carelessness puts our nation at risk. I hope that the FBI conducts a thorough investigation, and that Secretary Clinton will be held to the same standard as anyone else who engage in these activities.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-statement-on-reopening-of-fbi-investigation-into-hillary-clinton | Senator Lankford Statement on Reopening of FBI Investigation Into Hillary Clinton | 2016-10-28 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.28.16 Senator Lankford Statement on Reopening of FBI Investigation Into Hillary Clinton OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) issued the following statement on the FBI reopening its investigation into former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's email arrangement: Hillary Clinton has claimed for months that the FBI found no reason to prosecute her for her careless handling of classified information, but today reminds us again that the FBI can only examine what the Clinton's have not already destroyed or hidden. As more evidence is discovered, it is obvious to the American people, and now to the FBI Director, that this investigation is far from settled. No one in the American government uses a private server at their home to conduct classified work or to store sensitive government information. All of the recent Wikileaks emails remind us that unsecure servers are vulnerable to theft and exploitation by United States enemies. Americans who have served our nation are rightly frustrated that Hillary Clinton put her political future above our national security. Today, I renew my call for the suspension of Hillary Clinton's and her staff's security clearances, just like any other person under this type of investigation. In July, Lankford and a group of Senators requested that the Department of State suspend the security clearances of Secretary Clinton, Huma Abedin, Cheryl Mills, Jake Sullivan, and other former State Department employees for security violations. Lankford serves on the Senate Intelligence Committee. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-remembers-aviation-legend-bob-hoover- | Inhofe Remembers Aviation Legend Bob Hoover | 2016-10-26 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe Remembers Aviation Legend Bob Hoover Wednesday, October 26, 2016 WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today released a statement remembering legendary pilot Robert A. “Bob” Hoover “I am saddened by the passing of Bob Hoover and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. Bob was one of the best pilots in history and has been a stalwart in the aviation community for decades. Not only did Bob honorably serve our nation as a U.S. Air Force test pilot during World War II, but he worked tirelessly on behalf of pilots everywhere. After the FAA famously revoked his medical certificate without cause Bob became the driving force and inspiration behind my longstanding efforts to pass legislation that addressed the FAA’s bureaucratic red tape. I continued this work with the two Pilot’s Bill of Rights bills that made due process reforms to the FAA’s enforcement process and redesigned the FAA’s entire medical certification process for general aviation pilots. These accomplishments would not have been possible without Bob and I thank him for being a champion for pilots everywhere and for his contribution to the aviation community. They will surely never be forgotten.” In 1999, Sen. Inhofe introduced S. 722, which gave FAA certificate holders the ability to immediately appeal emergency revocations to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). This legislation was made law as a part of the FAA Reauthorization passed in 2000 and was initiated after FAA arbitrarily revoked Bob Hoover’s medical certificate. In 2011, Sen. Inhofe introduced S. 1335, the Pilot’s Bill of Rights. This bill makes FAA enforcement proceedings and NTSB reviews fair for pilots by providing them with the information they need to appropriately defend themselves. It was signed into law on August 3, 2012. In 2015, Sen. Inhofe introduced S. 571, the Pilot’s Bill of Rights 2. Among other things, this bill reformed the medical certification process for general aviation pilots and made the skies safe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-responds-revelations-rising-obamacare-premiums | Cole Responds to Revelations of Rising Obamacare Premiums | 2016-10-25 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement on the current state of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Recently, the Obama Administration revealed that premiums for enrollees will rise 76 percent for Oklahomans next year. “The Obama Administration has confirmed what we knew would become a reality: Obamacare is simply unaffordable and just does not work,” said Cole. “From the beginning, the system has been flawed in both quality and quantity. Premiums and deductibles are outrageous, people can’t access their doctors and insurance companies are frantically drawing back their participation. These are all real problems that are proof that one-size-fits-all healthcare simply does not work.” “Since its initial passage, Republicans have predicted that Obamacare would fail, and it’s beginning to unfold right in front of us,” continued Cole. “I’m glad to support the blueprint that Republicans in Congress have set forward to replace this deeply flawed healthcare system. The Better Way Agenda will provide a healthcare system that embraces free markets, consumer choice and minimal regulations and mandates and puts back quality and consumer choice in American healthcare.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/cole-statement-pentagon-demand-bonus-repayment | Cole Statement on Pentagon Demand for Bonus Repayment | 2016-10-25 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the Pentagon demanded the California National Guard members repay decades-old reenlistment bonuses. Additionally, it has been reported that while this controversy is currently only impacting California National Guardsmen, It could potentially apply to Guardsmen throughout the country. “I am extremely dismayed that the Pentagon has asked the California National Guard to ‘repay’ their bonuses,” said Cole. “This is downright wrong. Our men and women in uniform, especially those who have seen combat, are responsible for protecting our national security and that of our allies. Demanding repayment of the bonuses awarded to them for reenlisting severely undermines and disrespects the sacrifice and honor that they gave in order to defend our nation and our freedoms." "Our service members protect all of us in many ways and they do not deserve these kind of surprises from our government,” continued Cole. “Congress needs to act in whatever way is necessary to stop this absurd policy and to make sure that service in the National Guard is respected and rewarded in a way commensurate with their selfless service to our nation. The good news is, the House has a provision in the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act which would protect our men and women in uniform from mindless policies such as this one. It should be acted upon immediately" ### Contact: Teresa Davis (202) 225-6165 | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-james-lankford-obamacare-is-not-working-for-all-americans | Senator James Lankford: Obamacare is not working for all Americans | 2016-10-25 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.25.16 Senator James Lankford: Obamacare is not working for all Americans OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today released the following statement after the Obama administration announced that premiums for Obamacare will increase by an average of 25 percent next year. The Obama administration's confirmation of 25 percent premium hike is yet another in a long line of broken promises from the unaffordable Affordable Care Act. The news for Oklahomans is actually much worse, as 2017 premiums will now rise by 76 percent and Blue Cross Blue Shield is now the only health insurer offering plans on the federal exchange in 2017. Clearly, Obamacare is not working for all Americans. This is not just a partisan criticism; even Bill Clinton called Obamacare the craziest thing in the world' and Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton said that Obamacare is no longer affordable to increasing numbers of people.' Congress put a bill to repeal Obamacare on the President's desk this year but he vetoed it. Now, more than ever before, we need a President in the White House that is willing to work with Congress to realistically address skyrocketing health care costs and dwindling options. What we need is a legislative replacement that lowers the cost of providing quality care, increases competition, expands health saving accounts, and allows each state to manage health care for their citizens, like my Health Care Compact legislation. ### Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/its-time-save-social-security | It's Time to Save Social Security | 2016-10-24 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Since it was established in 1935, the Social Security program has become one of the most popular, and relied upon, government programs. A typical retired American will derive more than fifty percent of their income from Social Security. And approximately twenty five percent of American retirees rely on Social Security for nearly ninety percent of their income. Unfortunately, according to the latest Social Security Trustees’ Report, unless significant reforms are made to the system, the Social Security Trust Fund will be broke by 2033 and America's senior citizens will face an immediate twenty three percent cut to their benefits. Unfortunately, Congress has been unable or unwilling to make the reforms that are necessary to ensure that the Social Security Trust Fund remains solvent. The sad reality is that whenever any policy to reform Social Security is proposed, certain politicians and special interest groups take the opportunity to engage in scare tactics aimed at the very people who rely upon Social Security for their livelihoods. Consequently, some have called Social security the "third rail" of politics - touch it and you will die. This has to change. The reality of the challenge facing Social Security is that without reforms, the program will go broke. The options for saving the program are numerous, and straight forward. One option would be to reduce Social Security benefits for the top twenty five percent of earners. Wealthier retirees typically have greater savings and other sources of income to fund their retirement. Another option is to raise the retirement age from 66 to 68, 69 or even 70. The average life expectancy in the United States continues to rise so an argument can be made that the eligibility age for Social Security should increase as well. Some have proposed to raise the income level subjected to the Social Security tax. Currently that figure is $113,700. Increasing that number to $215,000 would reduce the Social Security shortfall by nearly a third. Eliminating the cap altogether wo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-and-mullin-statements-on-oklahoman-killed-in-afghanistan | Inhofe, Lankford and Mullin Statements on Oklahoman Killed in Afghanistan | 2016-10-21 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford and Mullin Statements on Oklahoman Killed in Afghanistan Friday, October 21, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC); Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Rep. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) released the following statements today regarding news that Michael G. Sauro of McAlester, Okla. was killed Wednesday from hostile fire at an Afghan military ammunition supply point outside of Kabul, Afghanistan: “My prayers and thoughts go out to the family and friends of Michael Sauro who was killed in Afghanistan serving our nation,” Inhofe said. "Michael is one of our civilian warriors and heroes who serve alongside our uniformed members, performing critical tasks to ensure mission success. It is times like this that we must remember our nation remains at war, and the service and sacrifice of our active duty, Guard, Reserve, and civilians is what helps to keep America safe. Michael’s bravery and commitment to his nation, through repeatedly volunteering to serve and provide his military expertise in combat zones overseas, will never be forgotten.” “I'm saddened by the death of Michael Sauro in Afghanistan this week,” Lankford said. “America is grateful for his sacrificial service to protect our freedoms. Mr. Sauro honorably served our nation as an Army civilian at the McAlester Ammunition Plant like so many Oklahomans and people from across the nation come to McAlester to do. Our nation understands that freedom is not free and that it is protected by our law-enforcement, our intelligence community, and our civilian, reserves and active-duty military who work every day to keep us safe. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.” “This is a tragic loss for MCAAP and the people of McAlester," Mullin said. "Mr. Sauro dedicated his life to working with the Armed Services to ensure the warfighter was equipped with the best we had to offer. My prayers are with his family and friends, and I grieve with them for the … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-lankford-and-congressman-diaz-balart-challenge-obamas-latest-cuba-directive | Senator Lankford and Congressman Diaz-Balart Challenge Obamas Latest Cuba Directive | 2016-10-21 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.21.16 Senator Lankford and Congressman Diaz-Balart Challenge Obama's Latest Cuba Directive Human Rights Conditions Worsen Since President's Cuban Policy Shift OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) today sent a letter toPresident Obama, stating their profound concern regarding the recent Presidential Policy Directive with the communist Castro regime in Cuba. On October 14, the President issued the directive to ease the economic embargo between America and Cuba. The directive is an overreach of Executive authority regarding congressionally-enacted sanctions with Cuba, and it contradicts America's commitment to human rights. Throughout the last two years, Lankford has been critical of the President's growing diplomatic relationship with Cuba. Earlier this year, Lankford challenged the President to reevaluate his decision to open diplomatic and trade relations with Cuba because of their poor human rights records. In 2015, Lankford also criticized the Obama administration for making a major policy shift without the input of the American people. A PDF of the letter is available here, and the full text is below: October 21 2016 President Barack Obama President of the United States of America The White House,1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: We write to express our profound concern regarding your recent Presidential Policy Directive which further seeks to weaken the congressionally-enacted sanctions against the communist Castro regime. These changes, which your Administration alleges are intended to help create more economic opportunity, circumvent current law yet again and sidestep Congress and the American people. Since you laid out your vision for reestablishing diplomatic relations with Cuba in December 2014, human rights conditions in the country have worsened. As former Treasury official and executive … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/new-cold-war | A New Cold War | 2016-10-17 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | Our nation has been fortunate in the past to have strong leaders who have recognized the threat posed by an aggressive Russia. Virtually every president since Harry Truman has known that maintaining a strong national defense and a healthy skepticism of the former Soviet Union was our highest national security priority. But since this Administration has taken office, Russia has taken full advantage of the weak foreign policy of President Obama. While President Obama lauded the “reset” of our relations with Russia in 2009, it has become painfully clear that this policy has not only been a resounding failure, but that Russia has taken advantage of the Obama Administration’s naïveté. In 2009, the United States and Russia came to a ten-year agreement, negotiated by Secretary of State Clinton, which reduced nuclear arms and weaponry. The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) was intended to replace an arms-control treaty that expired at the end of 2009. The new treaty went into effect in early 2011 and is due to be fully implemented in 2018 and remain in place for ten years. The agreement essentially requires both nations to limit their deployed nuclear arms. Specifically, each country is limited to 1,550 strategic deployed warheads, and 700 deployed heavy bombers and missiles. Although at the time the treaty was heralded as an improvement between our relations with Russia, many Members of Congress questioned the significant flaws the Treaty contained, specifically with regards to verification protocols, a lack of limits on tactical nuclear weapons, and rail-mobile intercontinental ballistic missiles. The United States has complied with the provisions of the treaty, by reducing its deployed weapons. However, Russia has continued to increase their number of deployed warheads since the treaty was agreed upon. In addition to this, Russia has been taking advantage of the treaty by utilizing its ability to modernize its weapons stockpile. It’s taking old stockpiled weapons that are considered under the p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/october-14_-lankford-letter | October 14 - Lankford Letter | 2016-10-14 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.14.16 October 14 - Lankford Letter CLICK HERE for the October 14, 2016 Lankford Letter. Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-question-top-pentagon-officials-about-obama-administrations-17-billion-cash-payment-to-iran | Inhofe, Lankford Question Top Pentagon Officials About Obama Administrations $1.7 Billion Cash Payment to Iran | 2016-10-12 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Lankford Question Top Pentagon Officials About Obama Administration’s $1.7 Billion Cash Payment to Iran Wednesday, October 12, 2016 WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and James Lankford (R-Okla.) today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Joseph Dunford regarding their recent testimony before a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing about the Obama administration’s $1.7 billion cash payment to Iran, and the fact that top military officials were not notified before the payment was made. Following reports that Iran has funneled this money into its military budget, the senators also note that the payment may further embolden Iran, resulting in our troops and allies confronting more lethal and better-equipped adversaries. Iran is still listed by the State Department as a state sponsor of terrorism. “While we understand that other agencies and departments would be in the lead for such a transaction, we are deeply concerned that President Obama and the rest of the administration did not think it was necessary to even notify the Secretary of Defense or the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that the United States was about to provide the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism with $1.7 billion in cash,” the letter reads. “It seems clear that the Obama administration’s injection of substantial, liquid financial resources into Iran’s military budget also has significant and obvious implications for America’s national security interests and required military posture in the Middle East.” Fifteen other Senators joined the letter, including Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Mark Kirk (R-IL), David Perdue (R-GA), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Michael Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), David Vitter (R-… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-lankford-and-inhofe-press-top-pentagon-officials-about-obama-administrations-17-billion-cash-payment-to-iran | Senators Lankford and Inhofe Press Top Pentagon Officials About Obama Administrations $1.7 Billion Cash Payment to Iran | 2016-10-12 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.12.16 Senators Lankford and Inhofe Press Top Pentagon Officials About Obama Administration's $1.7 Billion Cash Payment to Iran Top Military Officials Were Not Notified Before the Cash Payment Was Made OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jim Inhofe (R-OK) today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Joseph Dunford regarding their recent testimony before a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing about the Obama administration's $1.7 billion cash payment to Iran, and the fact that top military officials were not notified before the payment was made. Following reports that Iran has funneled this money into its military budget, the senators also note that the payment may further embolden Iran, resulting in our troops and allies confronting more lethal and better-equipped adversaries. Iran is still listed by the State Department as a state sponsor of terrorism. While we understand that other agencies and departments would be in the lead for such a transaction, we are deeply concerned that President Obama and the rest of the administration did not think it was necessary to even notify the Secretary of Defense or the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that the United States was about to provide the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism with $1.7 billion in cash, the letter reads.It seems clear that the Obama administration's injection of substantial, liquid financial resources into Iran's military budget also has significant and obvious implications for America's national security interests and required military posture in the Middle East. Fifteen other Senators joined the letter, including Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Susan Collins (R-ME), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Cory Gardner (R-CO), Orrin Hatch (R-UT), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Mark Kirk (R-IL), David Perdue (R-GA), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Michael Ro… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-menendez-congratulate-taiwan-on-double-ten-day | Inhofe, Menendez Congratulate Taiwan on Double Ten Day | 2016-10-11 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Inhofe, Menendez Congratulate Taiwan on Double Ten Day Tuesday, October 11, 2016 WASHINGTON — In a letter to President Tsai Ing-wen, Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), co-chairs of the Senate Taiwan Caucus, congratulated the people of Taiwan on "Double Ten Day," the national day of celebration. The letter follows: October 10, 2016 Her Excellency Tsai Ing-wen President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) No. 122, Sec. 1, Chongqing South Road, Zhongzeng District Taipei City 10048, Taiwan (ROC) Dear Madam President: As the Co-Chairs of the Senate Taiwan Caucus, we send our warmest greetings to you and the people of Taiwan as you celebrate the National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan). As longstanding friends of Taiwan, we join you in celebrating the history and importance of this day. As you know, our two peoples are bound by shared interests and values—namely, our commitments to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and free enterprise. We appreciate that freedom, security, and the exchanges of ideas, goods, and services are keys not only to a prosperous United States and a prosperous Taiwan, but also to a prosperous Asia-Pacific region and a prosperous world. We are also pleased to note that bilateral trade between the United States and Taiwan continues to grow, and that Taiwan was our 9th-largest trading partner last year. Increased trade and tourism brought about by Taiwan’s participation in the Visa Waiver Program has markedly improved mutual understanding. The 148 U.S.-Taiwan Sister Cities, three of which are located in New Jersey and two in Oklahoma, provide rich opportunities to cultivate personal relationships at the individual level. Finally, this past April marked the 37th anniversary of the enactment of Taiwan Relations Act (TRA), a pivotal event in our shared history and emblematic of our strong bilateral relations. In the coming year, we look forward to working with you to build on this legacy to increase our econom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media-center/weekly-columns/unlikely-alliance | An Unlikely Alliance | 2016-10-10 | 2016 | 2016-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | legacy | When the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, was passed in the spring of 2010 it was done so with no Republican votes. Since then, the Republican controlled House of Representatives has voted more than sixty times to repeal the law. Republican animosity towards this destruction of our health care system is well established. But recently another high profile political leader added his voice to the chorus of well deserved criticism of the disastrous consequences of Obamacare. “People gained access to health insurance but wind up with their premiums doubled and their coverage cut in half...The people getting killed in this deal are the small businesspeople and individuals who make just a little too much to get in on these subsidies...It’s the craziest thing in the world.” The sentiments expressed in these statements aren’t a surprise - they are shared by a majority of Americans. However, the fact that these sentiments were expressed by former President Bill Clinton, arguably the most revered figure in the Democratic Party, speaks volumes about the real impact Obamacare is having on the American middle class. The American people have known since it’s inception that Obamacare is a disaster. It has done lasting damage to individual health care options and to the market for health insurance. And in the waning days of his presidency, President Obama himself is even recognizing that the flaws the program has might give way to its demise. Even Congressional Democrats have been developing buyer’s remorse for blindly supporting the law in the first place. Dissent of Obamacare has suddenly become a bipartisan issue as evidenced by Bill Clinton’s unexpected candor. I could say that I’m shocked that one of the country’s leading Democratic leaders has pulled the curtain back on the truth of Obamacare. But the reality is that like most Americans, Bill Clinton has come to the conclusion that Obamacare just does not work. I give President Clinton credit for this one and I fully agree with him – the law … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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