Press releases
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1,182 rows where chamber = "House", state = "OK" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending
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- 2020 · 1,182 ✖
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- OK · 1,182 ✖
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- House · 1,182 ✖
| 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/press-releases/cole-supports-presidents-request-increase-stimulus-checks | Cole Supports President’s Request to Increase Stimulus Checks | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he supported the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help Act of 2020, which would increase the amount on the coming stimulus checks to be received by most Americans to $2,000 per adult along with $600 per child. "The wrath of the coronavirus pandemic has caused unprecedented hardships for many Americans, and I applaud President Trump for urging Congress to deliver more targeted relief to individuals and families in the form of stimulus checks. I am proud to support the president's request to increase the amount on checks soon to reach most Americans, providing additional help as we continue to grapple with the uncertainties and challenges facing our communities." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-override-veto-ndaa | Cole Votes to Override Veto of NDAA | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives voted to override the recent presidential veto of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2021. With Cole's support, the House voted 322-87 to override the veto. "I am disappointed by the president's decision to veto the National Defense Authorization Act, which is vitally important to supporting and strengthening our common defense and ensuring our service members have the resources they need to keep us safe. As the representative for the Fourth Congressional District of Oklahoma, which includes Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City and Fort Sill in Lawton, I could not vote to sustain the president's veto. If Congress does not enact the NDAA for fiscal year 2021, it will cost military families their extra combat and flight pay, effectively giving them an undeserved pay cut for Christmas and shamefully disregarding the selfless sacrifices they daily make to ensure our shared safety and security. "While I understand the president's concerns with certain provisions, I believe that this NDAA, in its entirety, makes essential progress in meeting our national security objectives. To be clear, we can and should address the president's valid concerns in other legislation, but I will certainly not jeopardize the important missions at Tinker and Fort Sill or the brave men and women who carry them out." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=276 | Hern supports Trump amendments to funding package | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement in response to President Trump’s announcement of his intent to veto the Consolidated Appropriations Act last night. “I agree with the President: the American people deserve more,” said Rep. Hern. “I am ready to return to Washington to work with him to pass his proposal to increase the funds returning to the American people. I believe that we can pay for these direct payments by eliminating the waste and unnecessary spending in the package that Americans, including myself, disdain. “I do wish that Secretary Mnuchin, whom I have been critical of in the past, would have been honest with us when he said he spoke for President Trump asking Republicans to vote for the previous proposal. I supported getting what aid that we could to American taxpayers and small businesses as quickly as possible, but I believe we now have an opportunity to fix this legislation so that we can bring effective help to the American people.” Rep. Hern continued, “As incoming Chairman of the RSC Budget and Spending Task Force, I will be working in the new year with a group of strong fiscal conservatives to propose a budget that will balance and start paying down our national debt. We have a long road ahead to get our spending under control. I hope over the next week that I can work with President Trump to cut this out-of-control spending in order to move the money into direct payments to American citizens.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-statement-on-fiscal-year-2021-national-defense-authorization-act | SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021: The NDAA has become law every year for 59 years straight because it's absolutely vital to our national security and our troops. This year must not be an exception. Our men and women who volunteer to wear the uniform shouldn't be denied what they need ever. This NDAA cements all the remarkable gains our military has made thanks to President Trump's leadership and sends a strong message of support to our service members and their families. I hope all of my colleagues in Congress will join me in making sure our troops have the resources and equipment they need to defend this nation. We can and should use another legislative vehicle to repeal Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act a priority the President and I share. The National Defense Authorization Act is the primary vehicle by which Congress fulfills its Constitutional duty to provide for the common defense. The legislation, which has been enacted into law every year for the last 59 years in a row, authorizes funding and provides critical authorities for the U.S. military to strengthen national defense and take care of U.S. service members and military families. The Senate approved the bill with a vote of 84-13; the House approved it with a vote of 335-78-1. For a summary of the FY21 NDAA, please click here. For the text of the Conference report, please click here. For the text of the joint explanatory statement, please click here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-supports-full-year-funding-and-coronavirus-relief | Cole Supports Full-Year Funding and Coronavirus Relief | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee, released the following statement after the United States Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021. The legislative package passed yesterday provides full-year funding for the annual operations across the entirety of the federal government as well as $900 billion of coronavirus pandemic relief. Cole supported the legislation. "Although I wish Congress had acted sooner, I am grateful that lawmakers ultimately fulfilled one of their most fundamental responsibilities by passing legislation to fully fund the government for fiscal year 2021 and also deliver desperately needed and long-awaited pandemic aid," said Cole. "While the resulting bill is massive and far from perfect, at the end of the day, it reflects the priorities and best interests of the American people for the months to come. Moreover, it prevents the added pain of a government shutdown amid the ongoing hardships our country and people have faced this year. "In completing the annual appropriations for the whole of government, I am encouraged by the increased funding devoted to the National Institutes of Health to further support vital biomedical research and pandemic preparedness, which must remain at the forefront for years to come. I am also proud that it provides the funding and resources for our nation's defense to tackle the evolving challenges of our day. "After months of needless stalling by Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats, I am relieved that targeted coronavirus relief will finally be able to make its way to Americans struggling because of the pandemic. This includes finally extending the Paycheck Protection Program to help small businesses keep their employees on the payroll, renewing unemployment insurance for unemployed workers and providing a second round of economic impact payments to most Americans. And rightly so, the coronavirus aid supports vaccine distribution as more start to become available." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-secures-oklahoma-provisions-in-americas-water-infrastructure-act-of-2020 | Inhofe Secures Oklahoma Provisions in America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2020 | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, praised the inclusion of America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2020 in the year-end appropriations bill and announced provisions in the legislation that will benefit Oklahoma. Inhofe's provisions focus on the future of Oklahoma, including the next step in ensuring the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levees project becomes a reality. I am incredibly pleased we have passed the fourth consecutive two-year water resources bill. This critical legislation contains a number of provisions that will benefit people across Oklahoma, including ensuring the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levees project becomes a reality. Not only that, this bill provides certainty in water storage pricing for Enid, prioritizes investment in the MKARNS and ensures Oklahoma will not have to wait almost a year after a disastrous flood for waterborne commerce to recover. The following provisions in America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2020 will directly benefit the state of Oklahoma: Tulsa-West Tulsa Project Authorization and Financing This provision is the next step in ensuring the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levees project becomes a reality if funded through the regular appropriations process. On April 23, Inhofe announced that Lt. Gen. Todd Semonite signed the Chief's Report for the Tulsa-West Tulsa Levees project. This Chief's Report is the formal recommendation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the improvements necessary so the Tulsa Levees can continue to minimize the risk to life and property in communities they protect from flooding. On average, once funded, it takes three years to complete a feasibility study and Chief's Report. Because of Inhofe's persistence, the Chief's Report for this project was completed in just 19 months, making it eligible for authorization this year. Furthermore, this bill formalizes the recommendation in the Chief's Report that the non-federal cost share for this project be financed over a 30 year period. Limitation on Water Storage Cos… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-votes-for-bill-to-bring-relief-to-oklahoma-families-as-christmas-approaches | Inhofe Votes for Bill to Bring Relief to Oklahoma Families As Christmas Approaches | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement after voting for legislation that would provide needed coronavirus relief to families in Oklahoma and fund the government until September 30, 2021. After Senate Republicans have been working to pass additional COVID relief for months, I am pleased to announce we finally have responsible, bipartisan legislation that will provide direct and targeted coronavirus relief for families, hospitals and small businesses. In addition to continuing successful CARES Act programs, like the Paycheck Protection Program that already saved 625,102jobs in Oklahoma, it will provide needed funds for vaccine distribution for all Americans, continue unemployment benefits and provide a new round of stimulus payments for households to help with immediate expenses. The legislation will also continue to make sure our hospitals, especially rural hospitals, and doctors, nurses and public health workers have what they need to keep fighting the coronavirus while also distributing the vaccine. I am glad Congress could come together to focus on the urgent needs of Oklahoma families as we look to a new year. Additionally, I'm pleased this legislation fully funds the Department of Defense through the fiscal year. Time and time again, we hear from our military leaders that the most critical thing they need is consistent, regular funding. This legislation will fully fund my NDAA, as well as all Oklahoma defense priorities. Additionally, the legislation contained provisions that will enact key priorities Senator Inhofe has been working on for years: Fully Funds Veterans Care Improvements in Eastern Oklahoma One of Inhofe's top priorities is ensuring veterans get the care they deserve. This legislation ensures veterans care improvements in eastern Oklahoma Inhofe has fought for are fully funded. Read more about Inhofe's plan to ensure veterans are well taken care of in his Tulsa World op-ed here. Funding for MKARNS Operations and Critical Maintenance Another major priority of Inhofe's is e… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-receives-covid-19-vaccine | Cole Receives COVID-19 Vaccine | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after receiving the first of two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and BioNTech over the weekend. As part of continuity of government protocols, the Office of the Attending Physician has made available and recommended administration of the vaccine to all members of Congress. "The fact that the United States has deployed a vaccine to fight COVID-19 within less than a year is not only a scientific marvel but a testament to American brilliance and ingenuity. This achievement would not have been possible without Operation Warp Speed, which envisioned and forged a way to rapidly discover and deliver a safe and effective vaccine to save lives – without cutting any corners. At the recommendation of the Office of the Attending Physician and to demonstrate my total confidence in this vaccine, I received my first dose over the weekend. While vaccinations are a personal decision, defeating this terrible coronavirus is a war we must fight and win together. We can all do our part by taking the vaccine as soon as it becomes available to us all." Cole is Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, which provides annual funding for the Department of Health and Human Services. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=275 | Hern votes in favor of COVID relief and federal funding package | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after voting for the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. “It’s been a long weekend in DC,” said Rep. Hern. “I’ve spent the weekend working to ensure key priorities were included in this funding deal, like funding for the new Tulsa VA hospital, construction of the border wall, raises for the military, and funds for the long-awaited Tulsa levee improvements. Typically, our federal government is funded through 12 appropriations bills each year. This year, 10 one-sided appropriations bills passed the House, littered with poison pills. Because Pelosi was unwilling to work with Republicans, the bills never passed the Senate. Tonight’s bill included funding for the entire government, and those unnecessary policy riders were removed, maintaining the pro-life and 2nd amendment protections that are a top priority for me and my constituents. I am proud to see bipartisan progress on this legislation and am happy to bring home these victories after a season of bitter partisan divides. “Regarding the COVID relief funds, frustration and confusion have been the theme of all my conversations with my colleagues on either side of the aisle for the past six months. In July, Republicans pushed for the same COVID relief provisions that were included in today’s bill, but Pelosi refused to work across the aisle before the election, baffling even members of her own party. This bill, although six months late, includes much-needed funding for small businesses and families. I am heartened that the unrelated policy riders previously included in negotiations were removed from the final version of this bill, essentially back to the language we began with this summer. Pelosi’s petty vendetta against President Trump is the only reason we are voting tonight and not six months ago.” Rep. Hern concluded, “With our expanded Republican Conference in the new year, I hope to see more similar bipartisan work and good-faith legislating happen in the House. For now, I am ready to g… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/covid-relief-bill-includes-lankfords-provisions-for-americas-nonprofits-and-houses-of-worship | COVID Relief Bill Includes Lankfords Provisions for Americas Nonprofits and Houses of Worship | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.20 COVID Relief Bill Includes Lankford's Provisions for America's Nonprofits and Houses of Worship WASHINGTON, DCSenator James Lankford (R-OK), member of the Senate Committee on FinanceandSenate Committee on Appropriations, applauded the extension of a proposal that hesuccessfully advocated for under the CARES Act, to allow a $300 deduction ($600 for those filing jointly) for charitable giving on federal income taxes in the latest COVID relief package, which the Senate is set to vote on later today. Americans are at our best when we are helping each other.Our nation'snonprofits and houses of worship have walked with families and served communities throughout this difficult year, said Lankford. They know names and stories of each individual they serve. But, this year's pandemic has stretched nonprofits thin as they work to serve the homeless, hungry, and hurting in our nation.I'm grateful we'll continue to empower nonprofits by includingacharitable giving proposalthat I have long supportedin the latest relief bill to incentivize giving to nonprofits by allowinga$300charitablededuction for individuals and $600charitabledeductionfor families on their federal taxes.Every person in our nation can give to the charity of their choice and get a direct benefit on their taxes at the end of the year while those in need get a direct benefit from their assistance right now. Lankford supported several targeted COVID relief bills that came to the floor earlier this year. In October,he voted to support $500 billion coronavirus relief packagethat focused on COVID-19 testing and vaccines, additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), unemployment benefit support, and $100 billion for schools so children and staff can return safely. After pushing for targeted COVID relief in September,Lankford spoke on the Senate floorin support of getting resources to families, charities, schools, and small businesses. In August, hehighlighted his priorities for getting reliefto Oklahomans, specifically throug… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-supports-covid-relief-slams-broken-process | Lankford Supports COVID Relief, Slams Broken Process | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.21.20 Lankford Supports COVID Relief, Slams Broken Process WASHINGTON, DCSenator James Lankford (R-OK)today issued a statement following passage of HR 133, Consolidated Appropriations Act, which includes targeted relief in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The bill now heads to the President. Oklahomans and Americans have endured a year with too many challenges. That includes waiting for relief that Congress should have provided months ago. We have agreed for months that another relief package is needed for those directly affected by Covid, the unemployed, small businesses and educators. Today, we have finally passed needed targeted relief that provides direct payments to Americans in need, extends the pandemic unemployment program for those out of work, and provides support for small businesses who are struggling, including our essential nonprofits. Most importantly, it provides funding for every Oklahoman to receive any of the Covid vaccines for free if they choose to take it. Those who are hurt the most by the pandemic get the most help in this bill. But, the bill also includes all twelve appropriations bills to fund every program in the federal government for the rest of the fiscal year, an energy bill, tax policy, homeland security bills, an end to surprise billing in hospitals and more. There are many essential bills in this package, but each of them should have been done individually over the past seven months, rather than crammed into the last legislative week of the year. The process to get to this final bill has been the ugliest I've seen in my time in Congress. Excuses about Covid, the election and a failure to even try the committee process has stacked up a year's worth of work for the last week of the year. This isn't sustainable. Amendments were behind closed doors, arguments were conducted through the media and the bill grew larger the longer it stayed in the dark. This process needs sunshine. It took three short-term spending bill extensions in the last week to get to a fin… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-senators-lankford-smith-and-rep-mullin-ensure-legal-fund-access-for-urban-indian-health-providers | PASSED: Senators Lankford, Smith & Rep. Mullin Ensure Legal Fund Access for Urban Indian Health Providers | 2020-12-20 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.20.20 PASSED: Senators Lankford, Smith & Rep. Mullin Ensure Legal Fund Access for Urban Indian Health Providers WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tina Smith (D-MN) and Representative Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) today applauded final passage of their legislation, Coverage for Urban Indian Health Provider's Act which passed both the US House and Senate this week. Lankford introduced the Senate bill in May in response to issues impacting Tribal health care. Urban Indian health providers should not have to pay more for their liability insurance simply because they are in an urban area. This bill will ensure Tribal health providers can focus funds on care, not court costs, said Lankford. This bill helps clear up disparities in the law that unfairly limit Urban Indian Health Organizations because they cannot currently access liability protection available to other health entities. That omission takes healthcare dollars away from Tribal members. I'm glad we can fix this error of omission for our Tribal members in Oklahoma and nationwide. This bipartisan legislation will create parity within the Indian Health System so urban Indian health organizations can spend their money on efforts to provide care rather than onlegal fees,said Smith.Thislegislationis especially important during the pandemic, which has hit Minnesota's urban Indigenous communities hard and has forced urban Indian health organizations to experience financial hardship or even close operations. I'm glad to have worked in a bipartisan way to bring some relief to urban Indian health organizations. Urban Indian Health Organizations play a critical role in providing health care to Native Americans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,Mullin said.Our bill ensures they are covered by the FTCA so they won't have to use their limited resources to cover costly liability insurance. I want to thank Congressman Gallego and Senators Lankford andSmithfor working with me on this bipartisan legislation to improve health care for Nativ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-grassley-hassan-introduce-retirement-bill-to-give-small-businesses-more-flexibility | Lankford, Grassley, Hassan Introduce Retirement Bill to Give Small Businesses More Flexibility | 2020-12-19 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.20 Lankford, Grassley, Hassan Introduce Retirement Bill to Give Small Businesses More Flexibility WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) along with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NN) to introduce theImproving Access to Retirement Savings Act.This bill will build off the successful implementation of theSECURE Actand make improvements so that more organizations and small businesses can participate in multiple employer plans (MEPs). Everyone knows that saving for retirement is important. These policies will make it easier for employers to offer retirement plans, improve accessibility, and encourageretirement saving for employees,Lankford said.By allowing more employers join together to offer retirement plans, and ensure employers have the resources and flexibility to begin and operate retirement plans, this proposal helps Oklahomans save more, sooner. This legislation will help more Americans save for their retirement while also giving our small businesses and nonprofits another avenue to invest in their employees' future financial security. Government should be doing everything it can to help Americans save more of their own hard-earned money so they can retire with peace of mind and independence,Grassley said. Every Granite Stater and American deserves to retire with dignity. This bipartisan effort builds on a law we passed last year to make it easier to save for retirement, saidHassan. This commonsense bill will help expand retirement plan options for small businesses, nonprofits, and employees and I will keep working across the aisle to strengthen retirement security. TheImproving Access to Retirement Savings Actwill allow more groups to participate in MEPs by allowing 403(b) plans, which are prevalent among tax-exempt organizations, to participate. It also clarifies that small employers that join a MEP may take the small employer pension plan start-up credit for their first three years in a MEP, regardless of how long the MEP … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-lankfords-international-call-for-repeal-of-blasphemy-laws | PASSED: Lankfords International Call for Repeal of Blasphemy Laws | 2020-12-19 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.19.20 PASSED: Lankford's International Call for Repeal of Blasphemy Laws WASHINGTON, DC- Senator James Lankford(R-OK) today issued a statement after a resolution he introduced passed the Senate unanimously. Lankford along with Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced a resolutionlast yearto call for the global repeal of blasphemy, heresy, and apostasy laws.According to a recent report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), 84 countries still have criminal blasphemy laws,many of whichpunish individuals who engage in expression deemed by the government to be blasphemous, heretical, apostate, defamatory of religion or insulting religion.Last week, the House of Representatives passed a similar resolution condemning blasphemy laws 386-3. The right to live your faith is one of the most basic human rights, said Lankford. We should not turn a blind eye to the mistreatment of religious minorities across the globe when we have the responsibility to advance our core value to have a faith, live a faith, change your faith, or have no faith at all. We are standing for and with those who cannot speak for themselves. Blasphemylaws affect Christians, Muslims,Jews,Hindus, Bah',secularists, and many other groups. The resolution Lankford and Coons introduced urges foreign countries to repeal such laws, release individuals who have been prosecuted or imprisoned on charges of blasphemyand ensure the safety of those individuals and their families. USCIRFresearch has found that blasphemy charges are often based on false accusations, are used for sectarian or political purposes, and foster religious intolerance, discrimination, and violence. They have found that at least41countriesenforcedblasphemy lawsbetween 2014-2018. Today's resolution follows the announcement by the State Department to designate Countries of Particular Concern based on religious freedom violations.Lankfordprovided opening remarks at the USCIRF virtual hearingentitled, Blasphemy Laws and the Violation of Internat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-lankford-receive-covid-19-vaccine | Inhofe, Lankford Receive COVID-19 Vaccine | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) released the following statements after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine: Today, because I wanted to show my confidence in the safety of the vaccine and as part of the continuity of government protocols, I received the COVID-19 vaccine from the Office of the Attending Physician, Inhofe said. Because of the incredible work of scientists and researchers, along with the health professionals at the FDA, Operation Warp Speed and the Trump Administration, we have a safe vaccine in record time. I am fully confident in its safety and efficacy, and I urge all Oklahomans and Americans to get the vaccine when it is available to them. Any funding bill must have resources for distribution to make sure the vaccine gets to our frontline health care workers and all Americans." Operation Warp Speed is the result of public-private partnership and American ingenuity, said Lankford. Through a great deal of hard work and innovative science, we have two safe and effective vaccines and more in the pipeline. Today the US Capitol's Office of Attending Physician encouraged Members of Congress, under the continuity of government protocols, to take the vaccine as soon as possible. I received my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine this afternoon. I will receive the second dosage in 21 days. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-continues-to-defend-right-to-freely-exercise-religion | Lankford Continues to Defend Right to Freely Exercise Religion | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.18.20 Lankford Continues to Defend Right to Freely Exercise Religion WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) and their colleagues in introducing a resolution defending the First Amendment of the Constitutionthe right to the free exercise of religion. This resolution was also sponsored by Senators Tom Tillis (R-NC), Roger Wicker (R-MS), John Boozman (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), David Perdue (R-GA), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Hoeven (R-ND), Mike Braun (R-IN), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS). It is supported by the Family Research Council and Alliance Defending Freedom. The American people value their right to freely exercise their faith, yet during this pandemic, they have continually seen challenges to that constitutional freedom, said Lankford. People want to protect the health and safety of others, but also balance our First Amendment freedoms. Now, we are raising our voices in the Senate with the American people to reaffirm the First Amendment and demonstrate our commitment to preserving every American's right to have a faith, live their faith, change their faith, or have no faith at all. That is one of our highest values as a nation, and I intend to always protect and preserve that right. Religious liberty is our first freedom, and there is no pandemic exception to the First Amendment, said Scott. Unfortunately, liberal governors and mayors across the country have used their emergency powers as a sword to go after churches, synagogues, mosques and other houses of worship, instead of a shield to protect the public health. For months, they have argued that these houses of worship should not meet and congregants could not sing, while they applaud massive political protests. That's wrong. Today, my colleagues and I stand together against these misguided and hypocritical attempts to target religious institutions. We will always fight for the religious liberty of a… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-inhofe-receive-covid-19-vaccine | Lankford, Inhofe Receive COVID-19 Vaccine | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.18.20 Lankford, Inhofe Receive COVID-19 Vaccine WASHINGTON, DCToday, Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jim Inhofe (R-OK)released the following statements after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine: Operation Warp Speed is the result of public-private partnership and American ingenuity,said Lankford.Through a great deal of hard work and innovative science, we have two safe and effective vaccines and more in the pipeline. Today the US Capitol's Office of Attending Physician encouraged Members of Congress, under the continuity of government protocols, to take the vaccine as soon as possible. I received my first dose of the Pfizer vaccine this afternoon. I will receive the second dosage in 21 days. Today, because I wanted to show my confidence in the safety of the vaccine and as part of the continuity of government protocols, I received the COVID-19 vaccine from the Office of the Attending Physician,Inhofe said.Because of the incredible work of scientists and researchers, along with the health professionals at the FDA, Operation Warp Speed,and the Trump Administration, we have a safe vaccine in record time. I am fully confident in its safety and efficacy, and I urge all Oklahomans and Americans to get the vaccine when it is available to them. Any funding bill must have resources for distribution to make sure the vaccine gets to our frontline health care workers and all Americans." ### 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/passed-lankfords-bill-to-help-states-prepare-for-disasters-heads-to-president-trumps-desk | PASSED: Lankfords Bill to Help States Prepare for Disasters Heads to President Trumps Desk | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.18.20 PASSED: Lankford's Bill to Help States Prepare for Disasters Heads to President Trump's Desk WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) applauded passage of the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act, which the senators introduced earlier this year to establish loans that local governments could access to help mitigate the damage caused by natural disasters in a more cost-effective way. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers more than $6 for every dollar invested. The STORM Act now heads to the President's desk to be signed into law. Natural disasters are unavoidable, but what we can avoid is being unprepared when they strike, said Lankford. Every Oklahoman knows how to prepare their family for a disaster; the challenge is actually taking the time to do it. The STORM Act ensures states and local communities take proactive steps now to prepare for disasters. I'm grateful for the House of Representatives' work to pass this two-part aid program for states so they can quickly act to help small communities affected by disasters, rather than having to wait on the federal government. Providing cost-effective tools directly to local communities across Michigan is critical to helping them stave off the harmful effects that coastal erosion, flooding and rising water levels have on people's lives and livelihoods, said Peters. I want to thank Congresswoman Craig for leading this bipartisan, commonsense legislation through the House and urge the President to sign it as soon as possible so that we can ensure that Michigan's coastlines remain safe and pristine for generations to come. Current hazard mitigation funds, such as those provided through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities progr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-bill-to-honor-clara-luper-rename-okc-post-office | Senate Passes Bill to Honor Clara Luper, Rename OKC Post Office | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.18.20 Senate Passes Bill to Honor Clara Luper, Rename OKC Post Office WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and Representative Kendra Horn (D-OK) to celebrate Senate passage of a bill to rename the downtown Oklahoma City post office in honor of civil rights hero Clara Luper. Passed by the House in September with the support of Oklahoma's full congressional delegation, the bill now heads to the White House to be signed into law. On August 19, 1958, Luper and the NAACP Youth Council led a civil rights sit-in at Oklahoma City's Katz Drug Store, the first civil rights lunch counter sit-in in America. The sit-in was the first in a series of successful nonviolent protests that led to the desegregation of Oklahoma City establishments. These sit-ins helped inspire lunch counters protests across the South, occurring years before the Woolworth's lunch counter sit-in in Greensboro, NC. In 1969, Luper was also the spokesperson for striking sanitation workers in Oklahoma City. Naming a post office in Oklahoma Cityin the heart of Ms. Luper's professional, social, and political lifeis a meaningful way to honor Clara Luper's tireless work toward helping our nation form a more perfect union,said Lankford. In the years ahead, when kids see Clara Lupers name on the building, parents can tell the next generation of Oklahomans about her legacy and work for equality in Oklahoma City and around the country. Designating the Clara Luper Post Office is long overdue recognition of a remarkable Oklahoman, and I am pleased we passed this legislation today to establish it,Inhofe said. Clara Luper had a profound impact on the civil rights movement not just in Oklahomabut across the country. I am proud that Oklahoma can honor her and her accomplishments permanently in this way, and applaud Sen. Lankford for his years of work to acknowledge, celebrate and affirm the legacy of Oklahomans like Clara Luper. Clara Luper and the sit-inners are true civil rights heroes who never stopped… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-leaders-inhofe/reed-statement-on-massive-cyber-hack-targeting-us-government | SASC Leaders Inhofe/Reed Statement on Massive Cyber Hack Targeting U.S. Government | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.), chairman and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement on the extensive cyber hack that breached the cyber networks of U.S. federal agencies and private companies: We have received initial information on the significant, sophisticated, and ongoing cybersecurity intrusion against the United States. We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to get updates. There is still much we don't know about the massive cyber hack that breached U.S. cyber defenses, including federal agencies and major private sector companies. But we do know the cyber intrusion appears to be ongoing and has the hallmarks of a Russian intelligence operation. The U.S. government must do everything possible to counter it. One of the immediate steps the Administration can take to improve our cyber posture is signing the NDAA into law. This year's National Defense Authorization Act provides critical tools and authorities to help defend against and disrupt malicious cyber activity and effectively hunt for threats and vulnerabilities on the federal cyber network. The bill ensures a coordinated response across the whole of government. The NDAA is always must-pass' legislation but this cyber incident makes it even more urgent that the bill become law without further delay. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-gives-eerily-familiar-floor-speech-about-his-solution-to-take-shutdowns-off-the-table-as-congress-nears-another-funding-deadline- | Lankford Gives Eerily Familiar Floor Speech about His Solution to Take Shutdowns Off the Table, as Congress Nears Another Funding Deadline | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.17.20 Lankford Gives Eerily Familiar Floor Speech about His Solution to Take Shutdowns Off the Table, as Congress Nears Another Funding Deadline Lankford: You get to the end of the fiscal year, whatever that may be, if we have not finished all of the appropriations work, we continue working until it gets done. CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's remarks on the Senate floor. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's remarks from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today gave remarks the Senate chamber has now heard several times before, as he pressed for his bipartisan solution to take government shutdowns off the table when Congress fails to come to an agreement on spending billsa precipice Congress is once again nearing as the Friday, December 18 deadline to fund the government nears. Lankford raised the issue of his bill, the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act, when Congress passed the Continuing Resolution to bring us to last week's deadline back in September, and he pressed for the bill on the Senate floor. Transcript This all feels strangely familiar. It's the middle of December, facing a government shutdown, arguing behind the scenes over the final details, discussing whether we're going to do a short-term CR, wondering what's going to happen, everyone has the sense if we don't get the bill done by tomorrow we're going to end up in shutdown and all the problems that that causes. Senator Hassan and I stand in the back and hold up our hand and say in February of last year, we proposed a solution to this that fits this exact scenario to keep us from holding federal workers and all of our agencies in harm's way. The ending government shutdowns bill is designed for this moment. And for whatever reason, we have not been able to agree to pass it. It's a process document. It doesn't solve all the policy issues we have, we have real policy differences, but we should not have process differences… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-coons-celebrate-40-years-of-the-us-african-development-foundation | Inhofe, Coons Celebrate 40 Years of the U.S. African Development Foundation | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced a resolution to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the United States African Development Foundation (USADF), an independent U.S. government agency that supports community development in sub-Saharan Africa. I am proud to introduce a resolution today with Senator Coons honoring the United States African Development Foundation's 40th anniversary, Inhofe said. USADF has for years given local entrepreneurs resources and opportunities to develop, grow and scale their businessesimproving their lives. Africa holds a special place in my heart and I look forward to continuing to support the USADF and the U.S.-Africa relationship for years to come. The USADF and the people that support their work are dedicated, results-oriented champions of the U.S.-Africa relationship. As the only U.S. government agency focusing 100% on the continent and largely with Indigenous peoples USADF's style of community development has contributed to four decades of improved relations and better livelihoods for people across Africa,said Coons.Today, we celebrate 40 years of progress and look toward USADF's continued role in a more peaceful and prosperous continent. Founded on December 16, 1980, the USADF has invested in a pan-African network of local implementing partners to promote entrepreneurship, food security, and economic development in underserved and hard to reach communities. USADF is consistently ranked as one of the most efficient providers of U.S. foreign assistance by the Center for Global Development. The full text of the resolution is available here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-statement-on-sanctions-on-turkey | SASC Chairman Inhofe Statement on Sanctions on Turkey | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement regarding the Trump administration's announcement that it will impose sanctions on the government of Turkey as a result of its purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air and missile defense system: "President Trump has taken the right step in holding Turkey to account for the ill-advised step of acquiring a Russian air and missile defense system instead of turning to its Western partners to fulfill its security needs. Sanctioning Turkey forpurchasing, accepting and testing the Russian-made S-400 air defense systemcontinues President Trump's proven track record of being tough on Russia. The consequences of President Erdogan's decision to jeopardize U.S. national security and support Russian interests were consistentlymade clear on numerous occasions there is no surprise here. I applaud President Trump's removal of Turkeyfrom the F-35 program andhis imposition ofsanctions as required by the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. President Trump's tailored, targeted sanctions send Turkey, and other countries looking to do Russian arms transactions, the exact right message: this will undermine and not enhance your security." | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-defends-americans-questions-regarding-election-fraud | Lankford Defends Americans Questions Regarding Election Fraud | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.16.20 Lankford Defends Americans' Questions Regarding Election Fraud Lankford Questioned Witnesses in Homeland Security Hearing on Security of US Election in 2020 CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's Q&A. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today participated in a hearing of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee entitled, Examining Irregularities in the 2020 Election. The Committee discussed the several irregularities in the 2020 election and how states can protect against election fraud moving forward. Lankford has discussed the need for states to secure their elections for several years and being the only member to lead in an effort to secure the cyber integrity of US elections domestically and abroad, including a push to ensure states have a paper ballot back-ups to audit elections. President Trump and his Administration implemented several of his ideas to protect US elections prior to the 2020 election. In June, Lankford joined Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), and Mike Lee (R-UT) to submit a joint amicus brief asking the Supreme Court of the United States to hear the case ofDNC v. Hobbsbecause the lower court's decision would jeopardize scores of neutral voting laws that are designed to prevent and deter election fraud. Excerpts December 2016, there was a poll that was done on if the American people believe the Russians interfered and changed our election. At that time 32 percent of the people believed that the Russians had influenced the outcome of the electionin December of 2016. Based on that belief and what was going it launched a whole series of hearings. Certainly the Russians were trying to interfere in our elections, but we spent millions and millions of dollars investigating it, going through it, ramping up entities like CISA and others to be able to go engage to be able to protec… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-joins-vice-president-pence-at-white-house-event-to-highlight-progress-in-protecting-lives-of-the-unborn | Lankford Joins Vice President Pence at White House Event to Highlight Progress in Protecting Lives of the Unborn | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.16.20 Lankford Joins Vice President Pence at White House Event to Highlight Progress in Protecting Lives of the Unborn WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined Vice President Mike Pence to acknowledge and celebrate pro-life progress in our nation during the Trump Administration at the Life is Winning event. Today's event included remarks by several federal agency leaders involved in President Trump's pro-life initiatives, including Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Alex Azar. Earlier this year, Lankford joined President Trump on stage at the March for Life, marking the first time a US President has attended the pro-life rally. I am grateful President Trump and Vice President Pence have worked so closely with me and other pro-life legislators to implement numerous pro-life policies, press for legislative solutions to protect life and conscience like the actions announced today, and help ensure women have access to the important health care they need, said Lankford. I believe all peoplefrom fertilization to natural deathhave value and worth. We still have much work ahead of us to fully protect and honor the lives of unborn children in our nation, but we have taken numerous positive steps toward that important goal in the last few years. I appreciate the opportunity to come together to acknowledge our progress and our ongoing commitment to life at all stages. Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar announced at the White House today that the HHS Office of Civil Rights will take action in Vermont and California concerning the enforcement of federal conscience protections for Americans. Lankford's Conscience Protection Act would codify these in law for all Americans. Lankford raised the issue of conscience protections at a Senate hearing earlier this year. In September, Lankford applauded President Trump's Executive Order Protecting Vulnerable Newborn and Infant Children, which took an extraordinary step to protect newborns, pre-mature babies, and infant lives. Lank… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/passed-lankfords-extension-for-scholarship-eligibility-to-gold-star-families | PASSED: Lankfords Extension for Scholarship Eligibility to Gold Star Families | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.16.20 PASSED: Lankford's Extension for Scholarship Eligibility to Gold Star Families WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) todayapplauded the passage of the Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvements Act of 2020 which includes his legislation to extend eligibility for the Fry Scholarship to spouses and children of National Guard and Reserveservice members who died of service-connected causes but whose deaths did not occur when the member was on active duty. TheFryScholarshipprovides Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to the children and surviving spouses of service members who died in the line of duty while on active duty after September 10, 2001. The bill now goes to the President's desk. Our men and women of the National Guard and Reserve and their families make tremendous sacrifices to serve our country, said Lankford. Under current law if a member of the National Guard or Reserve dies from service-connected causes but not an active duty, their families are ineligible to receive their rightful benefits. It's a disservice to those who give their lives in service to our nation. I'm grateful today we were able to take a step forward in better serving them by correcting this discrepancy and extending the eligibility for the Fry Scholarship. I'm hopeful the President will be swift in signing this bill into law. In May 2019, Lankfordintroducedlegislation to extend eligibility for the Fry Scholarship. He includedsimilar languagein a Comprehensive Veterans Benefits Package introduced in August of this year. ### 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/the-latest-lankford-successful-in-call-for-sanctions-on-turkey | THE LATEST: Lankford Successful in Call for Sanctions on Turkey | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.14.20 THE LATEST: Lankford Successful in Call for Sanctions on Turkey WASHINGTON, DC- Senator James Lankford(R-OK) today applauded a move by President Trump at therecommendation of Secretary of State Mike Pompeoand through the US Department of Treasurytoimpose Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) sanctionsagainst Turkey for the procurement of the Russian S-400 missile system. This is absolutely the right first stepin the right direction, said Lankford. Turkey is a NATO ally but is not behaving like one. They continue to compromise our national security by engaging with Russia.Today's action further demonstrates to President Erdogan that what they're doing is unacceptable. I appreciate the Administration's engagement with Congress to assess the available diplomatic options for addressing Turkey's recalcitrance. Now that we have taken this important step, I hope Turkey will carefully consider their next movehopefully back toward their friends in the US. The United States should also impose targeted sanctions on officials and entities responsible for the purchase and use of the S-400 if Turkey does not reverse course. Lankford firstcalled for targeted sanctionson Turkish officials in an appropriations bill in 2018 and days laterintroduced a bill to prevent the transfer of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighteraircraft to Turkey. Hesecured his plan to remove Turkey from participationin the F-35 program in the initial Fiscal Year 2019(FY19)National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Congress's annual defense bill. In 2019,Lankford led a group of his colleagues to introduce a billthat would prohibit the transfer of the F-35 aircraft to Turkey if they accepted delivery of Russia's S-400 air defense system, which would compromise US technologyfor Turkey to ownboth. After the bill was introduced,the Pentagon announced it would suspend deliveries of the F-35to Turkey. Lankford'sproposal to prohibit the transfer of the F-35 aircraft to Turkey was includedin the annualdefense bill for… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-rosen-statement-applauding-the-council-of-the-eus-declaration-on-combating-anti-semitism | Lankford, Rosen Statement Applauding the Council of the EUs Declaration on Combating Anti-Semitism | 2020-12-12 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.12.20 Lankford, Rosen Statement Applauding the Council of the EU's Declaration on Combating Anti-Semitism OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism, released the following statement applauding the Council of the European Union's declaration prioritizing the fight against anti-Semitism: "At a time when anti-Semitism is on the rise in Europe, in the United States, and globally, we applaud the Council of the European Union for making it clear that the EU has no tolerance for anti-Semitic bigotry and hatred,said the Senators.We welcome the Council's recommendation for consistent use of the IHRA Working Definition of anti-Semitism and urge EU members to implement the policies called for in the declaration. We look forward to our continued global partnerships in the mission to clearly define and fight back against anti-Semitism. Last year, Lankford and Rosen launched theSenate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism. The Task Force now has 38 Senators, with an equal number of Democrats and Republicans. On December 2, the Council of the EU adopted a declaration making the fight against anti-Semitism an EU priority. The document states, in part: With this declaration the Council emphasises that the fight against antisemitism is a cross-cutting issue involving various levels of government and policies at local, national and European level Awareness of antisemitism therefore needs to be raised across policy areas and responsibilities. The EU member states have agreed to mainstream the prevention and countering of antisemitism in all its forms. On December 11, the European Council, which defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union, welcomed the Council of the EU's adoption of the declaration. In 2016, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) consortium of 31 countries at the time, including the United States, Israel, and most of… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/community-action-development-corporation-receives-head-start-grant | Community Action Development Corporation Receives Head Start Grant | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) this week congratulated Community Action Development Corporation (CADC), headquartered in Frederick, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.3 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Beckham, Cotton, Jefferson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, Tillman and Washita counties. "Community Action Development Corporation has long provided assistance to those in need across several counties and many communities in Oklahoma. This includes fulfilling developmental, educational and nutritional needs of young children," said Congressman Tom Cole. "I am delighted that this incredible agency is receiving an HHS grant to support its Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families. These programs make a huge difference in the early development and well-being of children, helping provide a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school." "Through educational, employment, and health service programs, Community Action Development Corporation is improving the lives of countless Oklahomans and their families. I'm proud to join my friend, Congressman Tom Cole, in applauding the Agency for their work in Southwestern Oklahoma and announcing a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helping administer Head Start and Early Head Start programs," said Congressman Frank Lucas. "Since 1965, Head Start programs have served over 36 million children from low-income families, including infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children, by helping promote school readiness, development, and well-being through an array of services. Early childhood education plays a key role in a child's life and puts them on the path to success, both in school and in the future. I thank Community Action Development Corporation for their work, and I applaud them on their recent announcement, which will… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-applauds-key-oklahoma-military-victories-in-fy21-ndaa | Inhofe Applauds Key Oklahoma Military Victories in FY21 NDAA | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, praised the Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act Conference Report. The legislation passed with a bipartisan vote of 84-13. For the 60th year in a row, we have successfully come together to pass the National Defense Authorization Act Conference Report, Inhofe said. I am incredibly proud of the work put in to this for our nation's military and especially the military communities in Oklahoma.Oklahoma's five military installations and the people who keep them running go above and beyond to protect usthe least we can do is make sure they have the resources to do their job. We can never thank them fully for their service and sacrifice to our state and nation, but I hope passing this year's NDAA is a small token of our appreciation. Read the Senate Armed Services Committee press release here. Read the full summary of the NDAA Conference Report here. Read Sen. Inhofe's statement on why he couldn't include Sec. 230 repeal in the NDAA, despite his desire to repeal it. Oklahoma specific provisions are as follows: Tinker and the Oklahoma City Community Inhofe secured countless wins for Tinker Air Force Base and the surrounding Oklahoma City community. By fully funding the KC-46 and the B-21, he ensured Tinker Air Force Base's role as the hub for aircraft sustainment for years to come. By including provisions that increase the capacity of the workforce, such as the authority to appoint recently retired service members to DOD civilian positions, we can be confident there will be ample, well-trained civilians employed at Tinker to meet the future growth. Inhofe also secured provisions to build on his landmark housing reforms from last year's NDAA by strengthening oversight over the new reforms and creating more effective assessment measures for housing. In addition to the large procurement programs, Sen. Inhofe looked to the future with this legislation to find creative solutions for maintenan… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-celebrates-senate-passage-of-60th-annual-national-defense-authorization-act | Inhofe Celebrates Senate Passage of 60th Annual National Defense Authorization Act | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today praised Senate passage of the Conference Report on the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. The Senate approved the Conference Report with a vote of 84-13. There isn't much that happens around Capitol Hill with the kind of track record that the National Defense Authorization Act has, but there's a reason this bill gets done every single year for the last 59 years: It's the most important bill we'll do all year, Inhofe said. It's what the Constitution tells us we have to do. We must protect freedom, democracy and peace, and support our troops. This is the heart of the National Defense Authorization Act, and I look forward to it becoming law before the end of the year. The National Defense Authorization Act is the primary vehicle by which Congress fulfills its Constitutional duty to provide for the common defense. The legislation, which has been enacted into law every year for the last 59 years in a row, authorizes funding and provides critical authorities for the U.S. military to strengthen national defense and take care of U.S. service members and military families. For a summary of the FY21 NDAA, please click here. For the text of the Conference report, please click here. For the text of the joint explanatory statement, please click here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-speaks-on-the-senate-floor-showing-support-for-president-trumps-accomplishments | Inhofe Speaks on the Senate Floor Showing Support for President Trump’s Accomplishments | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | This week, U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) spoke on the Senate floor about successes we have seen under President Donald Trump's leadership.I was listening to the previous speaker from Rhode Island and I figure it's time to clarify a few things that are said about our President. I know that right now a lot of people are believing that we are going have a changehave a democrat president. A lot of decisions are being made. But, to show you that there is a big difference of opinion, I want to say a few things about our President just to remind people. You know, they've forgotten what has happened. Now I know that there are differing opinions on thatpartisan opinions. My very close friend from the Democrat aisle and I are going to hopefully have a vote tomorrow that will take place on the defense authorization bill. The biggest bill of the year. The most significant bill of the year. Senator Reed and I have an agreement on almost every element of it and we both have come to the conclusion it's a tremendous bill. It's one that you really can't justify opposing. A lot of things have been said that are not true. I want to just mention a couple things because this is a good time to do it. We have a president who has done things that have never been done before in terms of accomplishmentspositive accomplishments. I remember two years ago I wrote this little card because I was taking track of all these good things that have happened. I remember showing it to the president at that time. He read that and he was very excited about the way that we have composed it, but keep in mind, this was two years ago. Look at these ten things that this president has done. First of all, the big tax cut that he had. And by the way, when we look at the fact that he did such great things for the economy, prior to the pandemic, we had the best economy we've had in my lifetime. Then the pandemic changed all that. But he did this by looking back at history. It was not a republican, it was a democratit was President … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-urges-support-for-the-most-important-bill-of-the-year_the-national-defense-authorization-act | SASC Chairman Inhofe Urges Support for 'The Most Important Bill of the Year' — The National Defense Authorization Act | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor to urge his colleagues to vote for the Conference Agreement on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. The legislation will receive a final vote at 12:30 p.m. Eastern. It is my honor to present the 60thannual National Defense Authorization Act. For 59 straight years, you can't say this about any other piece of legislation, all year or any time, except the defense authorization bill. We've passed this bill we pass it every year for 59 years. This will be 60 years, and I anticipate that we'll pass it now. There isn't much that happens around the Capitol that has a track record like that, but this is the bill. Maybe I'm biased. Maybe in some people's minds I'm wrong, but I think this is the most important bill of the year. I really believe that. I've believed that since 1987. This is something that we have to do. There's an old document nobody reads anymore called the Constitution. In there, it tells us what we need to be doing. That's exactly what we're going to be doing today provide for our defense. So it's simple, what this bill does. It makes our country more secure, and it supports our troops who defend it. Right now, this couldn't be more important. As President Trump's National Defense Strategy tells us, we're up against the most serious threats we've seen maybe forever, and it's coming from China and Russia. These countries who stand against everything America stands for, are building. You know, it bothers me that we went through the last five years of the Obama Administration that would have been from 2010 through 2015 where he criticized the military. We didn't have to have the military, he feltDuring that time, during the Obama Administration, during those five years, he reduced the funding for the military by 25 percent. This has not happened in my memory, and it hasn't happened since World War II that we've gone through a five-year period of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-supports-annual-defense-bill-prioritizing-service-members-and-national-security- | Lankford Supports Annual Defense Bill Prioritizing Service Members and National Security | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.11.20 Lankford Supports Annual Defense Bill Prioritizing Service Members and National Security WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today supported the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) conference report. Lankford worked to secure a number of provisions to continue or enhance the missions of our Oklahoma military installations and a number of important policy provisions that benefit our nation and our national defense in the long-term. This year's defense bill includes a provision on which Lankford has worked for almost a decade, theTaxpayers Right-to-Know Act,whichrequires the federal government to publicize the details, costs, and performance metrics of governmentallprograms. This legislation, which would increase transparency and curb wasteful spending, unanimously passed the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee last year. Our nation's service members and national security are well-supported by this vital legislation. Our military personnel and military communities serve our nation and Senator Inhofe has done an excellent job to serve them by prioritizing their needs this year, said Lankford. With this critical legislation, Oklahoma's military installations will have what they need to continue defending our nation. The NDAA included a number of important provisions that help Oklahoma military installations and the federal workforce, including: Athree percent raisefor all service members. Tinker Air Force Base: Provides full funding for the B-21 Raider program as well as the first year of procurement dollars. It also funds procurement of 15 KC-46s. Encourages the use of additive manufacturing capabilities to repair aircraft more quickly. Altus Air Force Base: Funds procurement of 15 KC-46s. Altus AFB is set to receive eight aircraft. It currently has six of the eight aircrafts. Prohibits the Air Force from divesting older KC-10 and KC-135 tankers until technical issues with the new KC-46 are fixed Vance Air Forc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=272 | Hern named Chairman of the RSC Budget and Spending Task Force | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) has been named the Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC) Budget and Spending Task Force. “My top priority for the last two years has been federal spending,” said Rep. Hern. “Our government hasn’t operated under a budget in years, which should concern every American citizen. I am elated to lead the RSC Budget and Spending Task Force next year. Speaker Pelosi instructed the Budget Committee not to draft a budget in 2020 – this will not happen again. Whether the majority chooses to abandon responsibility or not, we will present a federal budget this spring.” RSC Chairman-Elect Jim Banks said, “Kevin is a small business champion and conservative fighter, and I’m proud to have him on the leadership team for RSC. As Budget and Spending Taskforce Chairman, he will help us advance fiscal responsibility at a time our country desperately needs it.” The Republican Study Committee is the largest conservative caucus in the House of Representatives. RSC drives conservative policy for the Republican Conference. The RSC Budget and Spending Task Force produced the only budget proposal from any party in the 116th Congress. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-60th-annual-ndaa-does-the-right-thing-for-our-troops-in-harms-way | Inhofe: 60th Annual NDAA "Does the Right Thing for Our Troops" in Harm's Way | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor in support of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021: Mr. President, I will sound a little redundant here because we've been talking about this bill for a long time now, for several months. People don't realize how long it takes to get a defense authorization bill all the way through the system. There is no doubt in my mind this is the most important bill of the year, every year, and the importance, I think, is pretty well demonstrated by the fact that we have successfully passed a defense authorization bill every year for 60 years. I feel we'll do the same thing it could be today, it could be tomorrow, but nonetheless, it's a bill that has to pass. Now, when President Trump came into office four years ago, we had a problem. He inherited a military that had been had serious problems. In fact, during the last four years of the previous Administration, that would have been 2010 to 2015, the President depleted the budget, reduced the budget for the military by 25 percent. I don't say that really critically of President Obama because he had different priorities. He was upfront about it and didn't consider this to be high enough of a priority. Now the sad thing about this is at the same time he was reducing our military spending by 25 percent, Russia was increasing theirs threefold, and China was increased by 83 percent. So we dropped ours by 25 percent at the same time China increased theirs 83 percent. That's really serious. You know, people have this assumption that America has the best of everything and that we don't have a problem out there, but we do. We found several systems where they were actually getting ahead of us. So working with Congress to pass the NDAA and appropriations bills, we secured nearly $3 trillion in funding in our nation's defense. This year alone, his Administration will provide more than $740 billion for the resources our milit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-western-sahara | Inhofe Statement on Western Sahara | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement on Western Sahara: I think that all countries should recognize Israel, and applaud the president's unprecedented efforts to foster recognition between Israel and Arab nations through the Abraham Accords. Today's White House announcement alleging Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara is shocking and deeply disappointing. I am saddened that the rights of the Western Saharan people have been traded away. In 1966, as West Africa was being decolonized, the UN General Assembly agreed that a referendum on self-determination should be held for the benefit of the Sahrawi people. Since that time, the international community has had one clear, defined policy: Western Sahara deserves a referendum of self-determination to determine its own future. The United States has supported this policy for decades and has worked to accomplish a referendum of self-determination. Until today, this Administration had continued our long history, one that has remained consistent across administrations. We're not alone in this position: the African Union, the United Nations, the International Court of Justice and the European Union have all agreed the Sahrawi people have the right to decide their own future. The president has been poorly advised by his team; he could have made this deal without trading the rights of a voiceless people. During my most recent visit to the Sahrawi refugee camps, I visited with the children that lived there. They were joyous, happy, ordinary children who didn't know yet that they were part of a frozen, forgotten conflict where their hopes and freedoms were dying a cruel death. I'm thinking about them and all the Sahrawians today. I won't stop fighting for them and I won't let the world forget them. Today's announcement does not change the United Nations or EU positions, nor the charter of the African Union, nor the opinion of the ICJ a referendum must still happen. I urge these organizations to stand strong to support Western Sahara's right … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-colleagues-push-bill-to-help-communities-better-prepare-for-disasters- | Lankford, Colleagues Push Bill to Help Communities Better Prepare for Disasters | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.10.20 Lankford, Colleagues Push Bill to Help Communities Better Prepare for Disasters WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) applauded passage of the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act, which the senators introduced earlier this year to establish loans that local governments could access to help mitigate the damage caused by natural disasters in a more cost-effective way. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers more than $6 for every dollar invested. As Oklahomans, we deal with our fair share of natural disasters every year, said Lankford. When we lend a helping hand to our neighbors in the aftermath, we often take time to think about how we can be better prepared next time around.This bill will encourage communities to be better prepared and ensure taxpayer dollars are targeted efficiently to those who have prepared for the natural disasters that will inevitability happen. Michigan's communities around the Great Lakes continue to be threatened by rising water levels, coastal erosion, and flooding that are wreaking havoc on people's lives and causing damage to public and private property, said Peters. I am committed to ensuring that Michiganders and our beautiful coastlines are protected. I am proud that my bipartisan bill has passed the Senate and I will continue to fight to ensure that it is signed into law as soon as possible so we can provide our communities with the cost-effective and commonsense tools needed to mitigate the effects of these natural disasters. Current hazard mitigation funds, such as those provided through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program authorized under the Disaster Recovery Reform Act, are made available to communities only after disasters st… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-coons-and-tillis-honor-human-rights-day | Lankford, Coons, and Tillis Honor Human Rights Day | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.10.20 Lankford, Coons, and Tillis Honor Human Rights Day WASHINGTON, DC- Senator James Lankford(R-OK), Senators Chris Coons (D-DE),and Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Representatives Alan Lowenthal (D-CA) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) today introduced resolutions in the United States Senate and House of Representatives recognizing Human Rights Day and the 72ndanniversary of the United Nations' adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.Forty-seven also joined the resolution. Seventy-two years ago, the Universal Declaration on Human Rights was adopted, acknowledging every person is of equal worth and deserves equal dignity,"said Lankford.The United States should continue to stand for fundamental human rights the right to life, the right to freely speak and access information, and the right to freely practice your faith, change your faith, or have no faith at all. I'm proud to reaffirm that commitment today. It's an honor to co-chair the Senate Human Rights Caucus with my good friend Sen. Coons,said Tillis.The mission of the Caucus is to defend and promote internationally recognized human rights norms around the world and contribute to global leadership in advocating for and protecting human rights. At the end of this difficult year, it is important that we take time to recognize these universal values as well as the courageous individuals who have dedicated their lives to upholding them by honoring the 72ndanniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. As co-chair of the Senate Human Rights Caucus, I am proud to introduce this resolution on the occasion of Human Rights Day,said Coons.Inthe face of growing illiberalism and authoritarianism around the world, let us celebrate the brave individuals striving for fundamental rights and freedoms, and fight for those who suffer from violence and oppression. Looking to the future, we must rededicate ourselves to the principles outlined in theUniversal Declaration of Human Rights 72 years ago. "Since I joined Congress in 2013, I have joined w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-discusses-work-to-protect-religious-freedom-around-the-world-at-virtual-event-hosted-by-us-agency-to-advance-international-freedom-of-religion- | Lankford Discusses Work to Protect Religious Freedom Around the World at Virtual Event Hosted by US Agency to Advance International Freedom of Religion | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.10.20 Lankford Discusses Work to Protect Religious Freedom Around the World at Virtual Event Hosted by US Agency to Advance International Freedom of Religion CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's opening remarks. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's remarks from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) provided opening remarks at the US Commission on International Religious Freedom's (USCIRF) virtual hearing entitled, Blasphemy Laws and the Violation of International Religious Freedom, about new findings from USCIRF's new report on the enforcement of global blasphemy laws and the multiple ways they promote violence against minority religious communities. Today the world recognizes the 72nd anniversary of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, also known as Human Rights Day, which Lankford honored in a bipartisan resolution on the significance of this day and the importance of protecting the rights of every person's worth and equal dignity, including their right to have the faith of their choice, change their faith, or have no faith at all. USCIRF's report, entitledViolating Rights: Enforcing the World's Blasphemy Laws, highlights 84 countries around the globe that maintain laws that criminalize expression that is contrary to a country's declared majority religion. This report examines and compares the criminal enforcement of blasphemy laws between 2014 and 2018, identifying 732 total cases in 41 countries. For two years, Lankford has pushed for passage of his resolution calling for the termination of blasphemy laws around the world. This week, the US House passed its resolution to condemn blasphemy laws in a vote of 386-3. Earlier this year, an American citizen was killed in Pakistan due to the country's blasphemy law. In today's remarks, Lankford called on his Senate colleagues to finally pass the Senate's version of that resolution. Transcript I appreciate the introduction, and I appreciate even more the work that this body is doing, the research that has happened to be able to pull t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-issues-statement-on-israel-and-moroccos-peace-agreement- | Lankford Issues Statement on Israel and Moroccos Peace Agreement | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.10.20 Lankford Issues Statement on Israel and Morocco's Peace Agreement WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) issued the following statement today after President Trump announcedthat Morocco and Israel have reached an agreement to normalize relations between the two nations: As we begin to celebrate the Jewish tradition of the festival of lights, President Trump has continued to lead the region to greater peace between Israel and its Arab neighbors. I commend both nations for taking this step and encourage other nations to open diplomatic ties with Israel. This is the fourth peace agreement that the President and his team have brokered this year. This is a significant achievement for our nation's diplomacy. The United States should continue to build on the success of the Abraham Accords and work to foster lasting peace in the region. ### 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/lankford-colleagues-lead-letter-to-request-additional-grant-funds-to-protect-nonprofits-from-terrorist-attacks | Lankford, Colleagues Lead Letter to Request Additional Grant Funds to Protect Nonprofits from Terrorist Attacks | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.09.20 Lankford, Colleagues Lead Letter to Request Additional Grant Funds to Protect Nonprofits from Terrorist Attacks WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford (R-OK), co-chair of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism and member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, sent a letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee today requesting that the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) be adequately funded to meet the needs of at-risk organizations this fiscal year. The funding allocated by this program will support nonprofit organizations most at risk of terror attacks through the acquisition and installation of physical target hardening measures, related preparedness and prevention planning, training, and exercises, and contracted security personnel so faith- and community-based organizations have the critical resources and tools they need to protect lives and property. According to a recent FBI report on hate crime statistics in 2019, 60.2 percent were victims of crimes motivated by offenders' anti-Jewish bias. Joining Lankford in sending the letter are Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rob Portman (R-OH), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). This grant program is vital to ensure faith- and community-based nonprofits and houses of worship can keep people safe as they engage with those they serve, said Lankford. As anti-Semitism reached a frightening new high last year, we must continue to find ways to help prevent terrorist acts and also empower our nonprofits to proactively establish safeguards and security measures, which they sadly need to do but don't necessarily have the funds to fully accomplish without these opportunities for federal assistance. The rise in anti-Semitic and hate-fueled crimes across New York is unconscionable. No community should have to live in fear due to who they are or how they worship, said Gillibrand. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program is an initiative committed to keeping nonprofits deemed at risk of terrorist att… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-supports-ndaa-conference-report-fy-2021 | Cole Supports NDAA Conference Report for FY 2021 | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 6395, the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2021. With Cole's support, the conference report passed the House today by a bipartisan vote of 335-78. "Authorizing resources to support our nation's common defense through passage of the National Defense Authorization Act each year is a critical responsibility of Congress. This year is no exception," said Cole. "This vital legislation rightly authorizes funding for programs and resources to keep our nation safe while also supporting the devoted and brave individuals who make every mission possible. Indeed, along with their usual assignments and duties, many of our devoted service members have navigated new and unexpected challenges, including being called upon to serve on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic. Whether they directly aid in the fight to eliminate this terrible virus or continue to dutifully protect us in the field at home and abroad, I am encouraged that the NDAA conference report generously delivers resources to keep our service members safe and healthy – including maintaining a sufficient Department of Defense supply of personal protective equipment, ensuring access to diagnostic equipment and testing capabilities and providing health benefits for our National Guardsmen courageously aiding in coronavirus response efforts at home. "I am encouraged that the NDAA conference report also prioritizes investments in critical emerging technology and cybersecurity, which is vital to strengthening our military force and protecting our country against increasingly aggressive adversaries like China and Russa. I applaud the leadership of Oklahoma's own Senator Jim Inhofe, who helped negotiate this bipartisan and bicameral conference report. As Chairman of the Senate Armed Service Committee, he understands the needs that must be fulfilled an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=271 | Hern votes for NDAA, supports separate action on Section 230 | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after voting in support of the NDAA Conference Report. “The most important function of the NDAA is funding our military,” said Rep. Hern. “Our service men and women are stationed across the country and globe defending American freedoms and interests around the world. Continuity within our military should be of the utmost importance to every American. When I voted against the original NDAA in July, I was concerned with a litany of unrelated issues that were included in the legislation, as well as a rushed process that lacked transparency with the Members of Congress who weren’t directly involved in the creation of the bill. With this NDAA Conference Report, Senator Inhofe has done a fantastic job championing the needs of our military and our constituents back in Oklahoma as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. I am glad to see that bipartisan work on this bill has resulted in legislation that we can pass and put into action quickly.” Rep. Hern continued, “I am aware that President Trump is still concerned about issues with Section 230 and has threatened to veto the NDAA over this issue. I believe the President is founded in his concerns, but it is in our nation’s best interest to pass the NDAA without unrelated measures. We must hold tech giants accountable, but that can and should happen separate from the NDAA. I am proud to vote for this legislation today and I look forward to working with the President and my colleagues in Congress to address selective censorship and biased actions from social media companies impeding the First Amendment rights of American citizens.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-inhofe-speaks-on-senate-floor-in-support-of-strategic-arms-sales-to-the-united-arab-emirates | ICYMI: Inhofe Speaks on Senate Floor in Support of Strategic Arms Sales to the United Arab Emirates | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today spoke on the Senate floor regarding arms sales to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). I support the pending sales to the United Arab Emirates, and therefore oppose the Joint Resolution of Disapproval. The agreement between Israel and the UAE one of the Abraham Accords - is one of President Trump's signature achievements and a major step forward in the Middle East. Arab-Israeli peace is not unprecedented, but the agreement between Israel and the UAE has moved further and faster than the other agreements that preceded it. It seems that the UAE and Israel are finding new areas of cooperation almost every day. They are now working together on security, pandemic response, education, and even media. This partnership is deep, and reflects the growing acceptance of our friend Israel in the region. Most important, it did not require Israel to surrender anything. President Trump treated Israel like a friend, and other countries have rushed to join that friendship.Now, it is our task to solidify these gains. The sale ensures that Israel's qualitative military edge is not affected, and we know this because the Israelis themselves have said so. Moreover, this sale deepens the UAE's partnership with the United States, and prevents it from turning toward China or Russia for its security needs. The UAE is worthy of this sale because it is strongly aligned with the United States in the Middle East.It is a vital counterterrorism partner. The UAE has fought alongside our troops in Afghanistan and against ISIS. It is also vital to U.S. efforts against Iran both Iran's ambition of regional dominance and its support for terrorist proxies. Voting down this sale would signal to our partners that even when they do everything we ask fight alongside our soldiers, pursue shared interests in the region, and make meaningful peace with Israel the U.S. won't have their backs.This would be a terrible message to send, especially at a mo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-reed-statement-on-fort-hood-independent-review-committee-report | Inhofe, Reed Statement on Fort Hood Independent Review Committee Report | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.), chairman and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement on the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee report: After we visited Fort Hood in September, we saw clearly how the lack of cohesion among units caused many problems but we also saw new leadership making positive changes that will improve the safety and wellbeing of our soldiers. Today, we received a copy of the report of the Army's Fort Hood Independent Review Committee, which we are now reviewing. This is a sweeping assessment that delves into the specifics of what went so wrong at Fort Hood and what additional steps the Army can take to remedy the situation. First, we are encouraged that the Army is taking steps to demand accountability of its leaders at every level, through leadership changes and disciplinary action. The fact of the matter is, many of the problems stem back to egregious mistakes made by the chain of command that created an unacceptable environment for soldiers at Fort Hood, especially for female soldiers. What's worse is leaders weren't held accountable. When that happens, the process breaks down. Fixing this problem is the right first step. We're also glad to hear Secretary McCarthy has issued a directive clarifying what should happen after a soldier fails to report for duty. When a soldier goes missing, the Army must take every step to find that person. However, this report made it clear that there are other, serious challenges facing Fort Hood, especially when it comes to implementation of the SHARP program, as we saw during our visit in September. We're glad that Secretary McCarthy is establishing the People First Task Force to address the recommendations of the report, and we offer our commitment to making sure these issues are addressed. We must restore our soldiers' faith and trust in their commanding officers, their unit and their service. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-pushes-for-targeted-covid-19-relief-gives-update-on-vaccine- | Lankford Pushes for Targeted COVID-19 Relief, Gives Update on Vaccine | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.08.20 Lankford Pushes for Targeted COVID-19 Relief, Gives Update on Vaccine Lankford: The first vaccine will come on the market by this Friday. It will be in arms by this weekend or at the latest Monday in my state, in Oklahoma. CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's remarks. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's remarks from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today spoke on the Senate floor about the ongoing negotiations in the Senate to finalize an additional COVID-19 relief package before the end of the year. Lankford offered an update on the timeline for a first vaccine available to certain groups, particularly essential workers, in Oklahoma by as soon as this weekend. Lankford has worked for months in the negotiations toward further targeted COVID-19 relief and has worked to provide oversight of existing COVID-19 relief programs. Transcript Four different times in the last four months we've had votes on this floor to talk about COVID relief. There's a real need to be able to get relief to people in my state, quite frankly in states around the country. There are individual items that need to be done, that are unfinished, and I think we need to actually finish them. We have this week and next week to be able to finish the tasks at hand. We have twelve appropriation bills. We have a National Defense Authorization. But in my state, people want to know most: what's going to happen with COVID relief? Where's that going to go? Well, apparently now we can actually have the debate. After the election was over, Speaker Pelosi announced that she was actually ready to negotiate the bill now that the election's finished. Well, great. The folks in my state have been waiting because four times in the last four months we've brought up bills that were serious bills to be able to actually debate this out and to be able to get the aid that's needed to be done, starting with additional money for distribut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-sinema-introduce-bill-to-clarify-federal-retirement-pension-for-federal-law-enforcement- | Lankford, Sinema Introduce Bill to Clarify Federal Retirement Pension for Federal Law Enforcement | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.08.20 Lankford, Sinema Introduce Bill to Clarify Federal Retirement Pension for Federal Law Enforcement WASHINGTON, DC Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management, today introduced the Retirement Annuity Supplement Clarity Act. The bill addresses an issue with the way the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) calculates the retirement annuity supplement for federal employees, mainly federal law enforcement officers, who have a divorce settlement dividing their annuity. Lankford and Sinema worked directly with the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA) to develop this legislative proposal. Federal law enforcement officers stand on the front lines to defend our families and our communities every day. They should always be able to focus on their mission, rather than federal regulations that complicate their retirement calculations, said Lankford. This bill will resolve a years-long problem so OPM has a clear directive for how to handle these payments, and it empowers OPM to consider court orders when divvying up annuity payments for divorced retirees. Federal law enforcement officers across Arizona secure our border and keep Arizonans safe. The government owes it to these brave officers to keep its promises and protect the retirement benefits they've earned, said Sinema. For the past four years, FLEOA has challenged this fundamental reinterpretation of the divisibility of an annuity supplement, which has threatened the financial security of retired federal law enforcement officers across this country, said President Larry Cosme of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA). FLEOA appreciates the leadership of Senators Lankford and Sinema in bringing forward this important legislation and helping us to restore the hard-earned retirement benefits of those who spent a career protecting and serving our nation. OPM c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-fourth-district-winners-congressional-app-challenge | Cole Announces Fourth District Winners of Congressional App Challenge | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Image Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) today announced that Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh are the Fourth District of Oklahoma winners of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge, an annual and nationwide competition that fosters engagement and educational growth in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) among middle and high school students. Smith attends Moore High School and Ashpaugh attends Norman High School. Both students also attend Moore Norman Technology Center, where they teamed up to develop their winning app. "I am delighted to congratulate Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh as the first Fourth District of Oklahoma winners of the Congressional App Challenge," said Congressman Cole. "Their app is a wonderful introduction for beginners of all ages to learn basic coding and have fun in doing so. I am very impressed by their applied skills and knowledge. Certainly, they have very bright futures." Working together, Lauren Smith and Katrina Ashpaugh created their winning app "Homeward Guides," which focuses on teaching basic coding techniques through a series of games and obstacles. The app, created for Mobile Android, tells a story of guiding a snake home by using various data types used often in coding and displays different coding languages. "The Congressional App Challenge helped me learn a lot about teamwork and innovation. I had a lot of fun making an app about something important to me," said Lauren Smith. "The Congressional App Challenge has given me the opportunity to learn how to work with others virtually and helped me learn how to communicate goals while working on big programming projects," said Katrina Ashpaugh. A video demonstration of the app can be found here. Background on the Congressional App Challenge Launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, the Congressional App Challenge each year invites students to create an application ("app") for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, raspberry Pi or other devices using any programming language – such as C, C… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-applauds-department-of-labors-rule-to-ensure-faith-based-organizations-can-contract-with-the-federal-government- | Lankford Applauds Department of Labors Rule to Ensure Faith-Based Organizations Can Contract with the Federal Government | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.20 Lankford Applauds Department of Labor's Rule to Ensure Faith-Based Organizations Can Contract with the Federal Government WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded the finalization by theUS Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP)to clarify the equal participation of religious organizations as federal contractors. After six years of questions as to the scope of the religious exemption for entities that seek to contract with the federal government,today's rule makes clear thatthe religious exemption allows religious contractors not only to prefer in employment individuals who share their religion, but also to condition employment on acceptance of or adherence to religious tenets as understood by the employing contractor. Religious entities, just like thousands of non-religious entities, provide services and fulfill the needs of many in our communities.No one should be prohibited from participating in the public square because of their faith, and the government should not dictate certain conditions of participation on entities simply because of their faith, said Lankford. This clarification is a significant step to ensure that religious organizations, many of which are small non-profits, will not have to surrender their sincerely held religious beliefs, including those related to employment decisions, to help their neighbor. This final rule makes clear that you can live your faith and still receive equal opportunity from the Department of Labor to serve as a federal contractor. Our government should serve everyone equally under the law, and no one should have to abandon their faith to partner with their own government. In 2017, theSupreme Court affirmed 7-2 in theTrinity Lutherancase that all organizations, whether religiously based or not, are constitutionally guaranteed the same right and opportunity to participate with the government. Lankfordissued a statement in August 2019when the OFCCP announced plans to clarify the civil rights… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-joins-cruz-and-colleagues-to-submit-amicus-brief-to-supreme-court-in-brnovich-v-dnc_ | Lankford Joins Cruz and Colleagues to Submit Amicus Brief to Supreme Court in Brnovich v. DNC | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.07.20 Lankford Joins Cruz and Colleagues to Submit Amicus Brief to Supreme Court in Brnovich v. DNC WASHINGTON, DCSenatorJames Lankford (R-OK),led by Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), along with Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Mike Lee (R-UT), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Rick Scott (R-FL), Thom Tills (R-NC), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Mike Braun (R-IN) today submitted a joint amicus brief to the Supreme Court of the United States in support of the petitioners in the case of Brnovich v. Democratic National Committee and in defense of laws that combat election fraud. The amicus brief argues that the Voting Rights Act does not prevent states from enacting neutral election integrity measures like Arizona's ban on ballot-harvesting, or other measures such as in-precinct voting requirements, voter ID requirements, election observer zones, and straight-ticket voting. The full text of the amicus brief may be viewedhere. Excerpts are below. The risk of voter fraud [is] real.' As this Court has repeatedly confirmed, States have the authority and responsibility to ensure the integrity of their elections. These measures do not deny anyone the equal opportunity' to vote on account of race or color.' [] In the past decade, plaintiffs have pushed an aggressive Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act theory seeking to invalidate voting laws regulating absentee voting, precinct voting, early voting, voter identification, election observer zones, voter registration, durational residency, and straight-ticket voting. [] In the past few years, many recommended election-integrity regulationswhich impose no more than the usual burdens of voting,'have been challenged in a wave of novel Voting Rights Act litigation. [] Were this Court to adopt the sweeping interpretation [] advocated by Respondents, these recommended laws and other neutral time, place, and manner voting laws would be put in grave danger across the country. ### Print Email … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=270 | Hern joins bipartisan, bicameral letter urging adoption of No Budget, No Pay in year-end omnibus | 2020-12-04 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) joined a bipartisan, bicameral letter to House and Senate leadership urging inclusion of the No Budget, No Pay Act in any end-of-year budget discussions and government funding legislation. The No Budget, No Pay Act incentivizes Members of Congress to pass a budget by withholding pay until the budget is completed. “No Budget, No Pay is something my constituents have heard me talk about over and over for the last two years,” said Rep. Hern. “It’s a common-sense idea that if Congress doesn’t do our job, we shouldn’t get paid. In business, I don’t pay employees to sit around and do nothing – that’s a sure-fire way to get terminated. In Congress, however, there are very rarely consequences for Members who refuse to do their job. This letter has support from Senators and Representatives on both sides of the aisle; this kind of unified support is not something you see often in Congress. I hope our leadership understands the gravity of this moment and the importance of getting our country back on track with a budget.” The letter was also signed by: Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-GA) Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) Senator David Perdue (R-GA) Representative Jack Bergman (R-MI) Representative Vern Buchanon (R-MI) Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI) Representative Lance Gooden (R-TX) Representative Ralph Norman (R-SC) Representative Scott Perry (R-PA) The letter can be found here and below. December 3, 2020 The Honorable Mitch McConnell Majority Leader United States Senate The Honorable Charles Schumer Minority Leader United States Senate The Honorable Nancy Pelosi Speaker of the House United States House of Representatives The Honorable Kevin McCarthy Republican Leader United States House of Representatives Dear Congressional Leadership: Appropriating funds is the most basic duty of Congress, bu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-section-230-and-ndaa | Inhofe Statement on Section 230 and NDAA | 2020-12-04 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) made the following statement on Section 230 and the NDAA: For the past four years, I've worked hand and hand with President Trump to rebuild our military, support our troops and defend American families. Under his leadership, we've made gains in our national security that would not have been possible under any other president and this year's NDAA continues that work. The NDAA, or National Defense Authorization Act, has to be passed every year so the troops get what they need. "The president knows that I agree with him 100 percent on the need for a full repeal of Section 230. I've made that clear publically as well. It's unfortunate that Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle disagree with the need for a full repeal but, because of that, it is impossible to add a repeal of Section 230 to the defense authorization bill. The only other option would mean that for the first time in 60 years, we would not have an NDAA. Without an NDAA, our troops would not get flight pay. They wouldn't get hazard pay or any other specialty pay that requires annual authorization for our service members overseas get what they need. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-joins-37-senate-republicans-to-file-brief-urging-supreme-court-to-reaffirm-religious-liberty-still-exists-in-a-pandemic | Lankford Joins 37 Senate Republicans to File Brief Urging Supreme Court to Reaffirm Religious Liberty Still Exists in a Pandemic | 2020-12-04 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.04.20 Lankford Joins 37 Senate Republicans to File Brief Urging Supreme Court to Reaffirm Religious Liberty Still Exists in a Pandemic OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today joined Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senators Rand Paul (R-KY), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), David Perdue (R-GA), John Thune (R-SD) ,John Barasso (R-WY), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Todd Young (R-IN), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), John Boozman (R-AZ), Mike Braun (R-IN), Richard Burr (R-NC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Hoeven (R-ND), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Ron Johnson (R-WI), Mike Lee (R-UT), Jerry Moran (R-KS), James Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Ben Sasse (R-NE), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-SC), Richard Shelby (R-AL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Roger Wicker (R-MS), issued the following statement Friday regarding the amicus brief they are submitting to the Supreme Court concerning Danville Christian Academy v. Beshear after submitting an amicus brief to the US Supreme Court in support of Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron's religious liberty lawsuit. In the brief, the senators explain that the Constitution cannot permit the selective and overzealous targeting of religious institutions by local officials who seek to impose stricter restrictions in the name of public health than the restrictions enforced against similar but non-religious establishments. In this case, Governor Beshear in Kentucky has unconstitutionally ordered K-12 schools including religious schools to shut their doors while permitting preschools, colleges, business offices, entertainment venues, and many other secular institutions to remain open. Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, our states and nation must continue to balance health, safety, and the protection of our constitutional rights, said Lankford. I am grateful… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/delta-community-action-foundation-awarded-grant-head-start-programs | Delta Community Action Foundation Awarded Grant for Head Start Programs | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) congratulated the Delta Community Action Foundation, based in Lindsay, after it was named a grant recipient by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The grant, totaling more than $1.5 million, will support the administration of Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Garvin, McClain and Stephens counties. "I am very proud that Delta Community Action Foundation is receiving a substantial grant to support facilitation of Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving children and families," said Congressman Cole. "Last year, I had the great privilege of visiting Delta Community Action Foundation, including one of their Head Start classrooms. Throughout my visit and during conversations with leadership, teachers and staff, I was greatly moved and inspired by their heart for the community and their commitment to the well-being and success of children at every stage of development. As they continue to serve South Central Oklahoma, this new investment in early childhood education, development and nutrition will help ensure even more children have a solid foundation for learning and thriving in school." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=265 | Hern introduces HERCULES Act to limit federal waste | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) introduced the Help End Redundant Claims Unnecessarily Leaving Employers Suffering Act (HERCULES Act) this morning. This is Rep. Hern’s 13th original piece of legislation this Congress. “Government waste is one of the biggest hurdles we face,” said Rep. Hern. “It’s also one with a seemingly easy solution: audit, streamline, and eliminate redundancies. That’s what I’m aiming to do with HERCULES. The current adverse action decision-making process in federal agencies is a nightmare. Because of the bureaucracy, it’s hard to make staffing changes; the result is an inflexible workforce resistant to adopt the changes of the modern workplace. By streamlining the adverse action process, we allow issues to be resolved efficiently and give our federal agencies more room to modernize.” Rep. Hern introduced the bill today with 15 original co-sponsors: Rep. Ted Budd (NC-15) Rep. Thomas Tiffany (WI-07) Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14) Rep. Matt Gaetz (FL-01) Rep. John Joyce, M.D. (PA-13) Rep. Scott Perry (PA-10) Rep. Jim Banks (IN-04) Rep. Bill Flores (TX-17) Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05) Rep. Fred Keller (PA-12) Rep. Austin Scott (GA-08) Rep. Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) Background Information Adverse action occurs when an employer behaves in a way that puts an individual or a group of people at a disadvantage. If any employee believes that his or her employer has taken adverse action against them, they may file a grievance. Currently, federal employees can file grievances with up to four entities: U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB), U.S. Federal Labor Relations Authority (FLRA), Office of Special Counsel (OSC), and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Additionally, grievances can be filed through a union or federal court. Federal employees can also appeal formal disciplinary actions, such as a demotion, compensation disparities, or steps towards firing. The current appeals process in response to adverse action is overly broad and redundant. The p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-announces-completion-of-conference-on-fiscal-year-2021-national-defense-authorization-act | Inhofe Announces Completion of Conference on Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.), chairman and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today released the following statement on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021: Just as Congress has done for the last 59 years in a row, we have reached a bipartisan, bicameral agreement on the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. This Conference Agreement fulfills our most important constitutional duty: to provide for the security of this nation and the men and women who lay their lives on the line to defend it. From the very beginning, we have committed to making this a Member-led bill, and this conference report is a reflection of that. With Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Thornberry, we have spent countless hours working through thousands of provisions to reach a final agreement. While the road wasn't always smooth, we have reached our final destination, and we are grateful to the conferees for their hard work and contributions. This year's NDAA will strengthen our national defense now and for years to come. The conference agreement accelerates implementation of the National Defense Strategy, ensuring we not only have the best planes, ships, and tanks, but that our forces are in the right places, at the right time, with the right capabilities. It pushes back on Chinese aggression by establishing the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, and includes numerous policies to counter Russia and other potential adversaries. The bill directs investments to encourage innovation and develop the groundbreaking technology that will keep our children's children safe. We encourage reform at the Pentagon that will allow it to operate more efficiently and effectively, and we secure our supply chain from overreliance on foreign adversaries. Most importantly, it takes care of our troops and their families providing a three percent raise, increasing hazardous duty pay, and improving access to high-quality housing, education, and child care. The NDAA is one of the few… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-presses-for-accountability-in-crossfire-hurricane-oversight-investigation | Lankford Presses for Accountability in Crossfire Hurricane Oversight Investigation | 2020-12-03 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 12.03.20 Lankford Presses for Accountability in Crossfire Hurricane Oversight Investigation CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's Q&A. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's Q&A from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today participated in a Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing entitled, Congressional Oversight in the Face of Executive Branch and Media Suppression: The Case Study of Crossfire Hurricane. Lankford questioned investigative journalists Lee Smith and Sharyl Attkisson and Former Assistant Director for Intelligence at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kevin Brock. On June 4, 2020, the Committee held a vote, which Lankford supported, to issue subpoenas for documents and testimony from key individuals and entities related to national security oversight investigations.On September 16, the Committee held a business meeting to issue additional subpoenas. One of those areas of oversight is the FBI's Crossfire Hurricane investigation that targeted members of the Trump campaign beginning in July 2016. The Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General (IG) Michael Horowitz's report regarding the Mueller probe outlined outrageous errors made in this investigation.In December, shortly after he released his report, IG Horowitz testified before the Committee. Excerpts On the importance of accurate reporting and local news Lankford: Mr. Smith, now I want to go back to that last statement that you made that journalism and media has become a platform for disinformation in many ways. How does that get turned around in your perspective? You've been around media your whole life. How do we get accurate information out? This is one of the top questions that I get asked by people in my state in Oklahoma is: how do I find out the facts? Mr. Smith: If you're talking about what people ask you back in Oklahoma, I would say that one of the central things is local news is very important. I'm not sure that anyone needs to be competing entirely with The Post… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-joins-cruz-colleagues-to-reintroduce-the-muslim-brotherhood-terrorist-designation-act | Inhofe Joins Cruz, Colleagues to Reintroduce the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act | 2020-12-02 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.)joined U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, this week to reintroduce the Muslim Brotherhood Terrorist Designation Act, a bill that urges the U.S. State Department to use its statutory authority to designate the Muslim Brotherhood as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). This measure requires the State Department to report to Congress about whether the Muslim Brotherhood meets the legal criteria for designation. U.S. Sens. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) also cosponsored the bill. Since the founding of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, Brotherhood affiliated groups have consistently preached and incited hatred against Christians, Jews and other Muslims while supporting designated radical terrorists Inhofe said. I am proud that under the Trump administration we continue to call out and combat radical terrorism and I am glad to join my colleagues today in reintroducing this legislation. We must continue to condemn Foreign Terrorist Organizations and hold them accountable for the evil they perpetrate. I am proud to reintroduce this bill and to advance America's fight against radical Islamic terrorism, said Cruz.I commend the current administration's work calling terrorism by its name and combatting the spread of this potent threat, and I look forward to receiving the additional information this new bill requests from the Department of State. Many of our closest allies in the Arab world have long ago concluded that the Muslim Brotherhood is a terrorist group that seeks to sow chaos across the Middle East, andI will continue working with my colleagues to take action against groups that finance terrorism. The full text of the bill can be viewedhere. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/native-american-heritage-month-resolution-filed-house | Native American Heritage Month Resolution Filed in House | 2020-11-20 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) this week led introduction of a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize November as National Native American Heritage Month, honoring tribal nations throughout history. Following introduction, the congressional delegation of Native Americans joined in issuing statements in support of the resolution. "Each year during the month of November, I am proud that we pause to reflect on the unique heritage, rich history and special contributions of Native Americans," said Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma. "Indeed, the enduring legacy of tribal nations and their members extends far beyond the birth of the United States, and that is a legacy that must be protected. I am pleased to join with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to introduce a resolution that not only celebrates an incredible heritage but affirms policies that respect the constitutional rights of tribes and preserve the promises made by the federal government." "Native American Heritage month is all about recognizing the contributions that American Indians, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiians have made to this country while reflecting upon the systemic racism and failures of the federal government to uphold promises to Native Nations. We must work to ensure the federal government upholds its trust obligation and promote tribal sovereignty so that we move toward a culture shift. We must learn from the dark pages of our history to build a more equitable and brighter future. By giving an elevated voice to Native Americans, we're also drawing attention to the challenges that our Tribal communities still face," said Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM-01), co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna. "This year's Native American heritage month comes at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting Native Americans and indigenous commu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:39:51Z |
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-supports-move-to-prevent-lender-discrimination- | Lankford Supports Move to Prevent Lender Discrimination | 2020-11-20 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.20.20 Lankford Supports Move to Prevent Lender Discrimination OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) issued the following statement today after the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency at the Department of Treasury announced a new proposed rule that would codify that financial institutions may not discriminate against certain industries in their lending practices: Financial institutions should consider credit-worthiness when deciding whether or not to issue a loan, not whether they agree with or use a legal business product or service, said Lankford. The attempt to pressure lenders to cancel' certain industries, including gun manufacturers and energy companies is inappropriate and discriminatory. I am glad Acting Comptroller of the Currency Brian Brooks is addressing this unfortunate trend to ensure all industries have the same access to opportunities regardless of whether lenders agree with their product or service. I support lending that focuses on good credit, legal operation, and good bookkeeping, rather than on a politically motivated agenda. ### 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/lankford-honored-as-first-senior-living-congressional-hero | Lankford Honored as First Senior Living Congressional Hero | 2020-11-19 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.19.20 Lankford Honored as First Senior Living Congressional Hero WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today was named the first Senior Living Congressional Hero by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) for his work to keep seniors and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lankford has worked to highlight the benefit of senior living communities and ensure they have the resources they need to provide and care for their residents, especially since the outbreak of COVID-19. Lankford joined ASHA during their virtual event. I am grateful to be recognized as a Senior Living Congressional Hero, and I will continue to advocate for our nation's elderly and the communities that assist them, said Lankford. For many of us, this year has been the most challenging year of our lifetimes. Despite these challenges, senior living communities and their staffs have served on the frontlines to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and provide support for the individuals that call them home. I am thankful for ASHA, their members, their advocacy, and their dedication to caring for our nation's elderly and most vulnerable, especially in such a challenging time. Senator James Lankford has provided critical leadership in Congress on issues of importance to seniors, their families, and the senior living industry during his time in the Senate, said David Schless, ASHA President.His diligence in securing our industry's much-needed access to the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund underscores his appreciation for the front line position our communities hold in keeping seniors and employees safe during these challenging times. He motivated his Senate colleagues to support his efforts in a bipartisan letter to HHS Secretary Azar calling attention to the extraordinary work by the senior living industry in caring for nearly two million seniors and one million employees. This created the necessary momentum to advance our calls for financial relief. I'm not sure our licensed assisted living providers would have had acc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-prioritizes-public-safety-needs-of-rural-communities-in-spending-bills | Lankford Prioritizes Public Safety, Needs of Rural Communities in Spending Bills | 2020-11-19 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.19.20 Lankford Prioritizes Public Safety, Needs of Rural Communities in Spending Bills WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) announced important policy updates in federal communications policies, provisions for the safe disposal of chemicals, and several provisions supporting law enforcement and drug interdiction in the Fiscal Year 2021 funding bills released by theSenate Appropriations Committee. Lankford serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee on the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittee. Our rural Oklahoma communities are counting on coordination from the federal government to keep moving toward expansion of rural broadband internet, and this bill continues that momentum, said Lankford. This bill also supports our federal law enforcement, who continue to work to keep us safe, prevent illegal drugs from coming into our country, and ensure the necessary, safe oversight of dangerous chemicals. We can and should continue to support them in those efforts through sound federal policies and adequate funding. I look forward to these important provisions for Oklahoma communities making their way to final passage soon. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) bill maintains funding for the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards (CFATS) Program, which provides oversight and security plans of chemicals at certain facilities. Lankford championed the CFATS authorization earlier this year. In addition to pressing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to ensure incarcerated individuals in federal prisons cannot harm innocent people outside of prison by using contraband cellphones, which Lankford announced last week, in the FSGG bill. Lankford also secured the following advancements: $15 million to the FCC for Broadband Mapping to accurately assess the needs for broadband deployment and service areas, which was authorized in the Broadband Data Act cosponsored by Lankford Requires the FCC to report on the lack of enforcement on potential violations of the Mo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-delivers-opening-remarks-at-bicameral-pass-the-gavel-meeting | SASC Chairman Inhofe Delivers Opening Remarks at Bicameral 'Pass the Gavel' Meeting on Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act | 2020-11-18 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today delivered opening remarks at the annual "pass the gavel" meeting, which is an opportunity for members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees to meet andwork together to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions of the defense authorization bill. Each year, the chairmanship of the NDAA conference committee alternates between the two chambers. This year, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Adam Smith (D-Wash.) passed the gavel to Inhofe, who is chairing the conference negotiations. As Prepared for Delivery:Thank you, Chairman Smith, and thank you all for being here today. I am looking forward to beginning the conference process with the traditional Pass the Gavel meeting.This process looks a little different from normal, but we still share the same goal: Finishing the Conference Report for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. If everything goes smoothly, this will be the 60thyear Congress has passed an NDAA. It's pretty much the only thing around here with that kind of track record. That's because we all know how important this bill is. It's the most important bill we'll consider all year, and we all take this responsibility, given to us by this little old document no one reads anymore, the Constitution, very seriously. Caring for our troops and providing for the common defense these are bipartisan priorities. On the Senate side, Senator Reed and I shared a commitment to upholding this bipartisan spirit and making this a member-led bill. In our committee markup, we considered nearly 400 amendments, and adopted over 229 of those. They were evenly split, Democrat and Republican, and the committee advanced the bill by a vote of 25-2. On the floor, we had a great process as well. We received another 800-plus amendments, with 145 amendments adopted, again on a bipartisan basis. The final vote reflected this bipartisanship 86 to 14. To get here, we have worke… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-chairs-hearing-on-lessons-learned-from-federal-telework-processes-during-covid-19-pandemic | Lankford Chairs Hearing on Lessons Learned from Federal Telework Processes during COVID-19 Pandemic | 2020-11-18 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.18.20 Lankford Chairs Hearing on Lessons Learned from Federal Telework Processes during COVID-19 Pandemic Lankford previously chaired a similar hearing examining private-sector best practices CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's Q&A. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's Q&A from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today chaired a hearing of the Homeland Security Committee Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Management entitled, Modernizing Federal Telework: Moving Forward Using the Lessons Learned During the COVID-19 Pandemic, to speak to federal agency leaders to help Congress assess how executive agencies viewed telework before COVID-19, which adjustments they made in the midst of the pandemic, and which telework strategies they plan to implement in the future based on what they have learned. On July 28, Lankford chaired the first hearing on this topic that focused on private-sector best practices for teleworking. Testimony for today's hearing was provided by leaders from the Department of Transportation, Social Security Administration, Government Accountability Office, and Department of Labor. Lankford's questions throughout the hearing focused on the impacts of teleworking on management success, the impact of teleworking on productivity, the cyber security infrastructure needed to telework safely, and onboarding hurdles with virtual-only workers. Lankford encouraged the witnesses to communicate their ongoing regulatory issues and process issues with the Committee to work on real solutions. Excerpts from Lankford's Opening Remarks Lankford: It's been a decade since the last significant piece of federal telework legislation with the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010it set the baseline standard for federal agencies to follow for telework. And in the last 10 years, we've seen great advances in technology, workforce expectations, and an increase in cybersecurity t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://horn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=366 | Horn Appointed to National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Committee | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Democrat | House | OK | Kendra Horn | H001083 | horn.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Kendra Horn (OK-5), a member of the powerful House Armed Services Committee, was appointed as a conferee to the House-Senate conference committee on the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). As a member of the bipartisan conference committee, Horn will lead efforts to find a bipartisan compromise, paving the way for final passage of the NDAA. This is the second year Congresswoman Horn has been appointed as an NDAA conferee. I am proud to be a strong voice for Oklahoma and our nation's Armed Forces, said Congresswoman Horn. Our national defense is an area where we can work together in a bipartisan way and find common ground. In last year's groundbreaking NDAA, we worked across the aisle to create a comprehensive bill that strengthened our national security and included a historic raise for our service members. This year, I look forward to working with my fellow conferees to pass another bipartisan bill that ensures our military continues to be the strongest in the world, creates more accountability, and supports our troops. I will also continue to fight for the Military HOMES Act, which we successfully included in this year's House NDAA. Congresswoman Horn led efforts during House NDAA deliberations to adopt the Military HOMES Act as an amendment to the NDAA. This legislation provides stronger protections for military families renting on-base housing from private contractors, building on the progress made under the Tenants Bill of Rights which passed last year. Text of the Military HOMES Act is available here. The NDAA which passed the House of Representatives this year also includes a three percent pay raise for uniformed personnel as well as targeted provisions to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill passed the House Armed Services Committee with unanimous support from both parties and passed the House with a majority of Democrats and Republicans voting in favor. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-on-plans-to-withdraw-troops-from-afghanistan-and-iraq | SASC Chairman Inhofe on Plans to Withdraw Troops from Afghanistan and Iraq | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement on plans to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan and Iraq: I have been assured by Acting Secretary of Defense Miller and the president's national security adviser, Ambassador O'Brien, that they are consulting with our allies, and that, with their plan, we will be able to carry out our mission of protecting the American people from terrorist attacks originating in Afghanistan, safeguarding Afghan gains and supporting our partners and allies. In this plan, we stand with the Afghan people and against the increased violence of the Taliban against the elected government. I look forward to receiving detailed briefings on the plan from the Pentagon and the commander on the ground, General Miller. As we evaluate the situation in Afghanistan and coordinate with our allies, we must ensure that our strategy and posture reflect the conditions on the ground. President Trump's South Asia strategy has been extremely successful, and his administration has scored major counterterrorism wins across the region, including taking out terrorist henchmen al-Baghdadi, Soleimani, and al-Rimi. His military strategy has always reflected conditions on the ground, rather than being tied to an arbitrary calendar like his predecessor. Keeping the right military footprint in Afghanistan to perform counterterrorism missions and support our allies and Afghan partners is an essential part of that realistic approach, and is vital to protecting the homeland from attacks. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-praises-ongoing-work-of-us-advancement-of-international-religious-freedom | Lankford Praises Ongoing Work of US Advancement of International Religious Freedom | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.17.20 Lankford Praises Ongoing Work of US Advancement of International Religious Freedom Lankford: The United States has a strong history and commitment to religious freedom, but some throughout the world do not have that privilege. CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's remarks. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's remarks from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today spoke on the Senate floor to mark the Third Ministerial to Advance Freedom of Religion or Belief, a virtual event this week to which Lankford provided closing remarks today. In his speech, Lankford lauded our nation's vital protections for the freedom to have and live a faith or have no faith at all and his desire for others around the world to enjoy those same freedoms in addition to the right to life and equal rights under the law for all people. Lankford continues to work in a bipartisan manner toward the goals of advancing religious liberty at home and abroad. In his ongoing work, Lankford led a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Pompeo and Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Brownback to ask them to consider recommendations made by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) when determining designations of Countries of Particular Concern (CPC) and placement on the Special Watch List (SWL). Earlier this year, Lankfordapplauded President Trump's Executive Orderto advance international religious freedom and praised the release of the 2019 International Religious Freedom (IRF) Report. Lankford has alsocalled for the global repealof blasphemy, heresy, and apostasy laws. Transcript In my neighborhood and in my community, you can walk down the street and visit with some really great neighbors. Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus, they all live in the same neighborhood. We're friends. My kids are grown now. We'd watch all our kids were playing together in the community, in the neighborho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-presses-for-pro-life-protections-support-for-oklahoma-healthcare-providers-and-assistance-for-schools-in-spending-bill | Lankford Presses for Pro-Life Protections, Support for Oklahoma Healthcare Providers and Assistance for Schools in Spending Bill | 2020-11-17 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.17.20 Lankford Presses for Pro-Life Protections, Support for Oklahoma Healthcare Providers and Assistance for Schools in Spending Bill WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) announcedcontinued pro-life protectionsinthe Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and Related Agenciesspending, bill released this week by theSenate Appropriations Committee, on which Lankford serves. Lankford helped secure health-related advancements in Alzheimer's research and rural health services as well as clarity for Oklahoma's rural school systems and for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). While the coronavirus pandemic continues, we must also continue to focus on the ongoing needs of our health and education systems in Oklahoma, which I believe this bill works toward, said Lankford. I am pleased this bill contains a numberof long-standing, pro-life policy provisions to protect American taxpayers from being forced to pay for abortion and abortion-related services that violate theirreligious ormoral beliefs. I am grateful for the ongoing attention to the Social Security Disability backlog and attention to the Rural Low-Income Schools program that we continue to work to maintain for our rural schools.Aswe work through the federal spending process, I am hopeful we will achieve a positive final product in the next few weeks. This bill maintains the existing important pro-life provisions including: The Hyde amendment, which prohibits federal funding of abortions and health coverage that includes abortion, except in cases of rape, incest, or life of the mother Title X requirements for grantees to encourage family participation when minors seek family planning services and requires counseling for minors on how to resist attempts at coerced sexual activities The Weldon amendment, which prohibits federal funds to federal programs, states, and localities that discriminate against health care entities that do not provide, pay for, provide coverage of, or refer for abortions The Dickey-Wicker amen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-applauds-streamlining-and-funding-updates-for-agriculture-energy_transportation-in-spending-bills | Lankford Applauds Streamlining & Funding Updates for Agriculture, Energy, & Transportation in Spending Bills | 2020-11-16 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.16.20 Lankford Applauds Streamlining & Funding Updates for Agriculture, Energy, & Transportation in Spending Bills WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) announced significant advancements for agriculture, energy and water, environmental, and transportation policiesin the Fiscal Year 2021 funding bills released by the Senate Appropriations Committee. Lankford serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. I am pleased with the progress we made in these bills to streamline federal summer feeding programs, update federal land use policies that affect Oklahomans, and increase funding to Air Traffic Control contract towers in our state, to name just a few, said Lankford. I look forward to continuing to examine areas of federal inefficiency and red tape to ensure these important programs function appropriately for taxpayers and accomplish their goals to serve Oklahomans. I hope we can move these and other important provisions to a vote of the full Senate in the days ahead so we can address some of these policy areas affecting my state. Under the Department of Agriculture's bill, Lankford worked to secure language that would: Call for the streamlining of the application process under USDA's Summer Food Service Program and Child and Adult Care Food Program. Streamlining would allow prospective providers to submit only one combined application for both programs rather than operating under the current system, which requires two separate but very similar annual applications Direct the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to provide Congress with examples of how the FDA has worked on biosimilar insulin drug approval applications and their plans to ease the application process for these products to get more insulin products on the market quickly in order to decrease insulin prices. Under the Energy and Water bill, Lankford worked to secure language that would: Direct the Army Corps of Engineers to delegate lease renewals to the district level, rather than requiring routine lease rene… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=262 | Hern announces student winner of Congressional App Challenge | 2020-11-13 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) surprised Reid Sotkin, a junior at Jenks High School, with a phone call to inform him that he was the winner of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge. Mr. Sotkin developed a software application called “Calculating the Future”, an app that teaches young Americans how to invest wisely and use the power of compound interest when planning for retirement. “The Congressional App Challenge exists for students like Mr. Sotkin,” said Rep. Hern. “Mr. Sotkin had a brilliant idea for a valuable app, and he taught himself how to code in order to make his idea a reality. There is so much young talent here in our district and it’s important for parents and educators to cultivate STEM skills in our students moving forward. STEM fields are the gateway to the jobs of the future, and I am so proud of the work that Mr. Sotkin, and other Congressional App Challenge winners across the country have accomplished. Background Information The Congressional App Challenge launched in 2016 with the intent of fostering appreciation for computer science and STEM skills in high school students. Members of the House of Representatives host district-by-district competitions each school year for students to design an app. Winners from each Congressional district are selected to be displayed in the US Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives’ website. Winners are also awarded $250 in Amazon Web Services credits. More information on the Congressional App Challenge can be found here. More information on Mr. Sotkin’s winning app, can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:39:51Z |
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-successful-in-push-to-prevent-contraband-cellphones-in-prisons | Lankford Successful in Push to Prevent Contraband Cellphones in Prisons | 2020-11-13 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.13.20 Lankford Successful in Push to Prevent Contraband Cellphones in Prisons OKLAHOMA CITY, OKSenator James Lankford announced his request for funding of micro-jamming technology and managed-access systems in federal prisons to prevent the use of contraband cell phones in prisons was included in the Senate's Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) appropriations bills. In September, Congress passedaContinuing Resolution to fund the government at current levelsthrough December 11, 2020. On Tuesday,the Senate Appropriations Committeereleased all 12 funding bills. Just this week, theDepartment of Justice announceda federal grand jury indictment of an inmate on an alleged murder-for-hire plot using a contraband phone. Across the US there is rampant use of contraband cell phones, being used for criminal activity both inside and outside of prisons.Our communities are less safe because of cell phones in prisons, but the good news is, there is a solution, said Lankford. The inclusion of aid in this year's funding bills is critical to providing federal prisons with the necessary technology to jam the signals of these cell phones. The funding is an important first step for wider use of micro-jamming technology for correctional facilities. I will continue to push on this issue until it's done the right way. Victims should not be harassed by their attacker from within a prison and our communities deserve safety and security. Specifically, theCommerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies FY21bill increased funding for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to cover the cost for micro-jammers and for managed-accesstechnology. The bill also directs the Department to submit a detailed plan for the deployment of complex jamming, which includes health and safety considerations. DOJ is also directed to ensure states are aware of funding opportunities for cell phone interdiction technology. TheFinancial Services and General Government (FSGG) FY21bill urges the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to coordinate federal testing of … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-announces-major-advancement-for-oklahoma-military-and-veterans-us-foreign-policy-in-federal-funding-bills | Lankford Announces Major Advancement for Oklahoma Military and Veterans, US Foreign Policy in Federal Funding Bills | 2020-11-11 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.11.20 Lankford Announces Major Advancement for Oklahoma Military and Veterans, US Foreign Policy in Federal Funding Bills WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today applauded numerous funding provisions that directly benefit Oklahoma's military and veterans in the federal funding bills for the Veterans Administration, Department of Defense, and State and Foreign Operationsreleased by theSenate Appropriations Committee. Lankford serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. I am proud of the work we did to secure funding and policy provisions for our Oklahoma service members and their families, our Oklahoma National Guardsmen and women, our veteran community, and civilian workers to advance their installations' missions, said Lankford. These federal funding bills ensure sustainment of several vital programs for our nation's national defense and encourage ongoing action in suicide prevention and other policy areas that help our nation'sheroes. The bill also includes quarterly status update requirements on the F-35 Turkey supply chain to ensure we prohibit the Turks from continuing to benefit from our F-35 program while also utilizingRussian missile systems. We can support our allies but also hold them accountable. I look forward to working toward the passage of these and other appropriations bills prior to theDecember 11th deadline. Oklahoma-specific wins in the bills include: Funding for the new Tulsa VA Hospital Funding for the Ammunition Demolition Shop at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant Funds for the sustainment of the MC-12 for the Oklahoma National Guard Continuing optional faith-based programming to help prevent veteran suicide and providing support to service members as they transition from active duty to civilian life Funding for 15 KC-46 tankers Funding for the Long Range Strike Bomber (B-21) that will be maintained at Tinker Air Force Base Funding for the Paladin Integrated Management system at Fort Sill Increasing funding for the Terminal High Altitude Area Defen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=261 | Hern participates in Federal Trade Commission virtual workshop | 2020-11-10 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) joined the Federal Trade Commission for a virtual workshop exploring issues surrounding the FTC’s Franchise Rule leading up to the negotiation of a new Franchise Rule. With Rep. Hern’s experience as a McDonald’s franchisee, he brings a unique perspective as both a lawmaker and a business owner who has operated under the FTC’s Franchise Rule. Rep. Hern’s remarks as prepared: For over 30 years, I have been involved in the McDonald’s franchisee program. After spending a year as an Aerospace engineer, a job that was cut short by the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, I had the opportunity to get into the McDonald’s program by working for a long-time franchisee who owned six restaurants in Little Rock, Arkansas. I was the chairman of the Owner/Operator leadership group for all of the 4,000 U.S. franchisees at the time. My role allowed me to see early on how a franchisor/franchisee is paramount to the overall success of any franchised brand. I worked for 10 years to save $100,000 to buy my first McDonald’s restaurant. In 1997, I became a franchisee and have owned 24 restaurants over the past 24 years. My family currently operates the remaining five restaurants in the Tulsa area. Prior to running for Congress in 2017, I served for 13 years on the McDonald’s National Leadership Council. Eight years as the Ombudsman and five years as the CFO. I saw first-hand how a ‘firm but fair’ franchisee agreement not only protected the intellectual properties of the franchisor, but also the equity of the franchisees. In fact, I have often said that franchising relations is much like the interactions of the states with the federal government. The ‘people’ are best represented by our Republic when each entity (state/ federal, or franchisor/ franchisee) stays in their appropriate lanes of responsibilities and acts within their limitations of good governance. It is incumbent for each party to desire strong partnership. Therefore, an FDD must be restrictive enough to create a natural selection pr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:39:51Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-applauds-dol-announcement-to-award-oklahoma-veteran-employers | Inhofe Applauds DOL Announcement to Award Oklahoma Veteran Employers | 2020-11-10 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) applauded today's announcement from the Department of Labor (DOL) that employers in Bartlesville, Broken Arrow and Jay, Okla., have been selected as awardees as part of the HIRE Vets Medallion Program. As we mark Veterans Day, it is an important reminder of everything our military sacrifices to serve our nation. When men and women leave the Armed Forces, we need to make sure their experiences are transferrable to civilian life with high-paid, skilled jobs. The HIRE Vets Medallion Program honors employers that see the value veterans provide to the workforce and prioritize hiring and retaining them. I'm pleased but certainly not surprised that so many Oklahoma companies are being recognized for their commitment to veterans today. Established by the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act of 2017 (HIRE Vets Act), the HIRE Vets Medallion Program is the only federal program that recognizes and honors job creators for their investments in recruiting, employing and retaining our nation's veterans. More information on the awardees can be found here. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-holds-video-conference-with-rotary-club-of-tulsa | Inhofe Holds Video Conference with Rotary Club of Tulsa | 2020-11-10 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) today joined the Rotary Club of Tulsa for a video conference: I had a great virtual discussion this morning with the Rotary Club of Tulsa, said Inhofe. We talked about the importance of ensuring Oklahoma's veterans are given the highest level of care and quality of life they have earned. I am proud of the work we have gotten done for our nation's veterans, particularly in Oklahoma where I have worked hard to ensure we have capable leadership and state of the art facilities. I look forward to passing the NDAA this year to give our nation's armed forces and veterans the resources they need and deserve. As we approach Veterans Day tomorrow, please remember to thank a veteran in your life. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-speaks-on-the-senate-floor-about-western-sahara | Inhofe Speaks on the Senate Floor About Western Sahara | 2020-11-10 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Today, U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) spoke on the Senate floor about the struggle in Western Sahara. Last week, while most of the world was focused on our election and the pending results, a very significant action was taking place halfway around the world in Western Sahara. Simply put, Morocco chose that time likely purposely to threaten to push back on protests by Western Saharans on their own land. This seems simple, but you have to remember how we got here, and why the status of the Sahrawi people is still in question and what we need to do to create a lasting solution. So how we got here: as West Africa was being decolonized, Western Sahara was clear and declared itself an independent nation, despite Morocco attempting to claim it as a territory. In 1966, the U.N. General Assembly resolution agreed that a referendum of self-determination should be held. Spain, Morocco, everyone agreed, and planned to hold one in 1975. Self-determination. Merely letting the Sahrawi people decide, for themselves the imperative principle of action the right to judge for themselves to be independent or be part of Morocco. This was just the first promise of a referendum. To date, none have been kept. An International Court of Justice opinion from 1975 also agreed that Morocco did not have sovereignty over the land and that a referendum of self-determination should be held. That was the second promise. Morocco maintained its unlawful claim to Western Sahara, and after decolonization, attempted to annex the territory with force. Western Sahara officially the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, through the Polisario, defended their rights and land. After more than a decade of violence from Morocco, the United Nations finally intervened in 1991 and both sides agreed to a cease-fire and a path forward. Called the Settlement Plan, it solidified that Morocco and Western Sahara agreed to hold a referendum and created the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO). For those keeping track tha… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-honors-oklahoma-heroes-ahead-of-veterans-day | Lankford Honors Oklahoma Heroes Ahead of Veterans Day | 2020-11-10 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.10.20 Lankford Honors Oklahoma Heroes Ahead of Veterans Day Lankford: We enjoy the freedom and the peace of today because of what those veterans have done for a very long time. CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's remarks on the Senate floor. CLICK HERE to download the video from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today paid heartfelt tribute on the Senate floor to some of Oklahoma's esteemed veterans ahead of Veterans Day. Lankford highlighted the sacrifices of those who served and their families, those who support and care for our veterans, and the federal and state employees who work hard daily to ensure we keep our promises to our heroes. In August, Lankford joined his colleagues to introduce the Veteran Benefits Enhancement and Expansion Act of 2020, a comprehensive bill that seeks to improve benefits for veterans in the areas of education, pensions, and survivor benefits among others. Transcript Today, in Oklahoma people are going to work, people are going to school, people at their job, people in their yard, people on bikes, people going for a quiet run in the beautiful weather, because tomorrow's Veterans Day. We enjoy the freedom and the peace of today because of what those veterans have done for a very long time. Whatever community you're in in Oklahoma, whether you're in Oklahoma City or in Tulsa or in Lawton, whether you're in Guymon or Idabel, Altus or Waukomis, it doesn't matter. You're going to find drawings. You're going to find displays. You're going to find military hardware. You're going to find memorials and monuments to veterans that have served, because across our state, we remember extremely well the sacrifice that's been made for the quietness of this day, the ability to be able to have an election, the ability to be able to send our kids to school, the ability to be able to work hard, to be able to fight off a virus, the ability to be able to invent and innova… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/sasc-chairman-inhofe-on-leadership-changes-at-the-department-of-defense | SASC Chairman Inhofe on Leadership Changes at the Department of Defense | 2020-11-09 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement on today's leadership changes at the Department of Defense: I want to thank Secretary Esper for his service for prioritizing implementation of the National Defense Strategy, for thinking critically about how the Pentagon operates, and for always putting our service members first. I just spoke with Acting Secretary of Defense Miller, and I look forward to working with him to ensure that these priorities remain paramount and to working with President Trump to maintain stability at the Pentagon, particularly as we work to enact the 60th annual National Defense Authorization Act. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-leadership-changes-at-nnsa | Inhofe Statement on Leadership Changes at NNSA | 2020-11-06 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, made the following statement regarding leadership changes at National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA): A short while ago, I spoke with Administrator Gordon-Hagerty, who is an exemplary public servant and remarkable leader of the National Nuclear Security Administration. That the Secretary of Energy effectively demanded her resignation during this time of uncertainty demonstrates he doesn't know what he's doing in national security matters and shows a complete lack of respect for the semi-autonomous nature of NNSA. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-and-colleagues-send-letter-to-hhs-requesting-clarification-on-free-covid-19-testing | Lankford and Colleagues Send Letter to HHS Requesting Clarification on Free COVID-19 Testing | 2020-11-02 | 2020 | 2020-11 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 11.02.20 Lankford and Colleagues Send Letter to HHS Requesting Clarification on Free COVID-19 Testing OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Rick Scott (R-FL), Martha McSally (R-AZ), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ben Sasse (R-NE), David Perdue (R-GA), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) sent a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar requesting that the agency clarify its guidance to ensure that individuals who need a COVID-19 test can receive one without any out-of-pocket costs, regardless of whether the individual is symptomatic. Read the Senators' letter HERE or below. Dear Secretary Azar: Thank you for your ongoing leadership as our nation continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout this public health emergency, the Trump Administration has taken critical steps to increase COVID-19 testing capacity by harnessing the strength and innovation of the private sector. To date, our nation has conducted an unprecedented level of over 100 million RT-PCR tests to help contain the virus, reopen the economy, and help American families get back to work and school. We applaud the Trump Administration's ongoing efforts to ensure that any American who needs a test can quickly get oneat no cost.The Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the CARES Act, which were signed into law by President Trump earlier this year, made sure that individuals can receive COVID-19 tests without out-of-pocket costs.President Trump's recent Executive Order on An America-First Healthcare Plan once again signaled the Administration's commitment to ensuring that Americans are held harmless from surprise medical bills, including for testing. Unfortunately, it has come to our attention that changes made in a recent tri-agency guidance published on June 23, 2020, have created some confusion regarding coverage requirements for COVID-19 testing. In recent weeks, we have been made aware of increasing coverage denials from health plans for COVID-19 testing, particularly for asymptomatic individua… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-rescue-operation-in-nigeria | Inhofe Statement on Rescue Operation in Nigeria | 2020-10-31 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding the successful hostage rescue mission in Nigeria. I'm pleased with the successful hostage rescue mission in Nigeria to protect American lives. This only highlights the importance of our ongoing presence and partnership in West Africa. I commend President Trump, Secretary Esper, our service members and our international partners for a job well done. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://horn.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=365 | Rep. Horn Urges Governor to Request Federal Disaster Aid | 2020-10-30 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Democrat | House | OK | Kendra Horn | H001083 | horn.house.gov | legacy | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK On Friday, Congresswoman Kendra Horn sent a letter to Governor Kevin Stitt urging the Governor to apply for federal disaster assistance by requesting a Presidential disaster declaration. The request follows a historic ice storm that hit Oklahoma on Monday, resulting in widespread damage to residential and commercial properties and leaving more than 375,000 Oklahomans without power. As of Friday, more than 200,000 Oklahomans remained without power. Oklahoma is recovering from the second-worse ice storm in our state's history. Families already struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic are without power and the resources they need to get by, said Congresswoman Horn. I am in daily contact with community leaders, local utilities, and elected officials to see where we can help our neighbors and how we can support efforts to restore power for all Oklahomans. Today's letter urges our Governor to apply for critically needed federal assistance that will help our state recover from this storm. I stand ready to support the Governor in this request. A state of emergency has already been declared by Governor Stitt for Oklahoma. A federal state of emergency must be requested by the Governor and issued by the President to receive federal assistance. The text of Congresswoman Kendra Horn's letter to the Governor is below: Governor Stitt: On Monday, October 26, the state of Oklahoma experienced one of the worst ice storms in our history. Nearly 375,000 power outages have been reported across our state, and as of today, more than 200,000 households and businesses in Oklahoma remain without power. I applaud your efforts in issuing a state of emergency to help expedite relief efforts. Since this disaster occurred, repair crews have been working around the clock in inclement weather to ensure power is restored to as many homes as possible. The repair and recovery efforts have been compounded by downed trees and debris that will take weeks, if not months, to clean up across our entire state. Although we do not… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-joins-colleagues-to-urge-state-department-to-prioritize-intercountry-adoptions | Lankford Joins Colleagues to Urge State Department to Prioritize Intercountry Adoptions | 2020-10-29 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.29.20 Lankford Joins Colleagues to Urge State Department to Prioritize Intercountry Adoptions OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), co-chairs of the Congressional Coalition on Adoption, along with Senators Jim Inhofe (R-OK), Richard Burr (R-NC), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mike Lee (R-UT), and Roger Wicker (R-MS), to send a bipartisan letter to urge the State Department to prioritize policies to promote intercountry adoption as the Department searches for new accrediting entities for intercountry adoption service providers. We urge the Department to use this search as an opportunity to recommit to one of the purposes of the Intercountry Adoption Act, to improve the ability of the Federal Government to assist' families seeking to adopt children from other countries, the senators wrote. Since the designation of the first accrediting entities in 2006, it has become clear that the intercountry adoption process can be influenced as much by the policies and procedures of an accrediting entity as the laws or regulations that govern intercountry adoption. The selection of a new accrediting entity or entitieswith the right priorities in mindcan play an important role in ensuring that the federal government will facilitate rather than encumber the ability of a child in need to have a family willing to provide a stable and loving home. In the letter, the senators ask the State Department to look specifically at the fee schedule for accrediting entities to ensure they do not impose undue financial burdens on families seeking to adopt internationally, especially low-income families, families seeking to adopt sibling groups, or families seeking to adopt children with disabilities. The senators also ask the State Department to provide additional information regarding changes to the Substantial Compliance System, citing feedback they have received from intercountry adoption stakeholders that the updates increase demand for compliance in some exi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=259 | Hern mourns Tulsa FOP Chairman Jerad Lindsey | 2020-10-28 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement following the death of Tulsa Fraternal Order of Police Chairman Jerad Lindsey. “Jerad Lindsey was a great man and a great friend,” said Rep. Hern. “His leadership impacted so many – both within law enforcement and around the community. I spoke with Jerad on Sunday as he battled this virus. All too soon, he was taken from us. Tammy and I extend our deepest condolences to Jenny and their young boys.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:34:36Z |
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-honored-with-guardian-of-small-business-award | Lankford Honored with Guardian of Small Business Award | 2020-10-28 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.28.20 Lankford Honored with Guardian of Small Business Award OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) was honored to receive the National Federation of Independent Business's (NFIB) esteemed Guardian of Small Business Award for his continued support for Oklahoma's small businesses. I am honored to be recognized as a Guardian of Small Business, and I am committed to continue fighting for Oklahoma small businesses to ensure they have the resources and support they need during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, said Lankford. Oklahoma small businesses were hit hard by the pandemic and have worked together to reopen safely and continue to power our local economies. This year has led to unprecedented innovation, determination, and resolve from our small business owners and their workers, and I am grateful for their tenacity. I will continue to stand up for and support our small business communities to provide them critical support, like the successful PPP program, and protect them from Washington overregulation and excessive red tape. I encourage all Oklahomans to shop small' this holiday season to help our friends and neighbors on Main Street. The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is awarded to lawmakers who small businesses can truly count on, said Kevin Kuhlman, NFIB Vice President of Federal Government Relations. These Members of the US Senate are dedicated supporters of the key issues that our members are concerned about and have proven themselves to be real champions for small business. Our policy positions are driven by our members, and we report NFIB Key Votes back to our membership. We are proud to recognize Senator Lankford for earning this distinction in the 116th Congress by taking pro-small business votes supporting financial assistance programs and opposing increased labor costs. Small business owners across the country need his support now more than ever during these unprecedented times, and we are grateful to Senator Lankford for his leadership. Lankford chairs the Senate Ho… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-offers-condolences-to-family-of-tulsa-police-officer | Lankford Offers Condolences to Family of Tulsa Police Officer | 2020-10-28 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.28.20 Lankford Offers Condolences to Family of Tulsa Police Officer OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senator James Lankford (R-OK) issued a statement on the passing of Tulsa Police Officer Jerad Lindsey: "Our whole state grieves the loss of Tulsa Officer Jerad Lindsey, someone who dedicated his life to protect and serve every Tulsan. Cindy and I pray for his family and the Tulsa family as they grieve this incredible loss. This is the second officer the Tulsa Police Department has lost this year. Our prayers are with all the men and women at TPD as they again walk through this grieving process. We will continue to pray for every Oklahoman that has been impacted or continues to face the challenges of this virus physically, emotionally, or economically. We are in this fight for each other." ### Print Email Tweet Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-rosen-recognize-first-anniversary-of-formation-of-bipartisan-task-force-to-combat-anti-semitism | Lankford, Rosen Recognize First Anniversary of Formation of Bipartisan Task Force to Combat anti-Semitism | 2020-10-28 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.28.20 Lankford, Rosen Recognize First Anniversary of Formation of Bipartisan Task Force to Combat anti-Semitism OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), co-founders and co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism, released the following statements in recognition of the Task Force's one-year anniversary: In the last year since Senator Rosen and I started the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism, more than a third of the Senate has joined with us in a bipartisan way to condemn acts of hate, promote a uniform definition of anti-Semitism for the US and governments around the world, and ensure our schools are equipped to provide education on the Holocaust, said Lankford. I look forward to our ongoing work to raise awareness and do what we can to fight anti-Semitism and religious persecution in the US and worldwide. In recent years, anti-Semitism and acts of hate have grown at an alarming rate in the United States and throughout the world,said Rosen.Standing against anti-Semitism is a critical issue that's near to my heart. That's why one year ago today, I joined Senator James Lankford to launch the Senate's first Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism. Over the past year, we've worked to educate and empower communities to fight back against hate. We've been able to make great strides, but our work is far from done. We have an ongoing responsibility to our neighbors, to our friends, to our community, and to our children to confront anti-Semitism wherever it rears its ugly head. Background Last year, Lankford and Rosenlaunched theSenate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism. The Task Force now has 38 Senators, with an equal number of Democrats and Republicans. Additional Task Force members include: Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Roy Blunt (R-MO), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mike Braun (R-IN), Tom Carper (D-DE), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bob Casey (D-PA)… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-joins-blackburn-to-urge-the-college-board-to-reevaluate-relationship-with-chinese-communist-partys-confucius-institutes | Lankford Joins Blackburn to Urge the College Board to Reevaluate Relationship with Chinese Communist Partys Confucius Institutes | 2020-10-27 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.27.20 Lankford joins Blackburn to Urge the College Board to Reevaluate Relationship with Chinese Communist Party's Confucius Institutes OKLAHOMA CITY, OKSenator James Lankford (R-OK) joined Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Kelly Loeffler (R-GA), Mike Lee (R-UT), and Marco Rubio (R-FL) urged the CEO of the College Board to reexamine its relationship with the Confucius Institute Headquarters. The National Association of Scholars (NAS) issued a report identifying College Board as a target for the Chinese influence campaign,the Senators wrote.This report alleged that the College Board partnered with China to develop the Advanced Placement (AP) Chinese Language and Culture Exam. The report further alleged that College Board helped place Chinese nationals in U.S. schools through the Chinese Guest Teacher Program, a collaboration between College Board and Hanban. We are concerned that the PRC exploits its partnership with College Board to stifle conversation that might undermine the reputation of the CCP. The full letter may be found below andhere. Dear Mr. Coleman: We write to bring your attention to concerns regarding College Board's relationship with the Confucius Institute Headquarters (Hanban). On August 13, 2020, the U.S. Department of State designated the Confucius Institute U.S. Center (CIUS) as a foreign mission of the People's Republic of China (PRC), thereby recognizing Confucius programming as part of the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) propaganda apparatus to influence schools in the U.S. The designation of CIUS as a foreign mission followed Congress's efforts to curtail the presence of Confucius programming in American schools. In 2019, a bipartisan Senate investigation found that the PRC prioritized the expansion of Confucius programming in K12 schools. Moreover, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (P.L.115-232) specifically prohibits the use of Department of Defense (DoD) funds for Chinese language instruction provid… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-applauds-senate-confirmation-amy-coney-barrett-supreme-court | Cole Applauds Senate Confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the United States Senate voted to confirm the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court of the United States. "Amy Coney Barrett will make a fantastic Associate Justice on the Supreme Court of the United States, and I am delighted that the Senate confirmed her nomination. Not only is she immensely qualified when you look at her educational and career credentials alone, but her confirmation hearings proved to everyone watching that she is incredibly sharp and knowledgeable. I applaud President Trump for nominating such a brilliant person and great American to serve on the highest court in the land. As she has done throughout her impressive career, Associate Justice Barrett will indeed be an ardent defender of the Constitution when she assumes her seat on the bench of the Supreme Court." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:34:36Z |
| https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=258 | Hern applauds confirmation of Amy Coney Barret to the Supreme Court | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | Kevin Hern | H001082 | hern.house.gov | hern | https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx | scraper | Representative Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after the Senate voted to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the United States Supreme Court tonight. “I join millions of Americans in celebration tonight following the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett,” said Rep. Hern. “In a field of impressive and qualified people, Barrett stands out for her intelligence, strength of character, and spotless reputation – all while raising seven children. A strict constitutionalist, she has vowed to uphold our laws and protect our Constitution. She is entirely deserving of her new position on our highest court. Congratulations to the Barrett family!” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:34:36Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-receives-nfib-guardian-of-small-business-award | Inhofe Receives NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) received the NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation's leading small business advocacy organization. The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is the most prestigious legislative recognition given out by the NFIB. I feel honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business Award from the National Federation of Independent Business, Inhofe said. The NFIB is a strong advocate for small businesses throughout Oklahoma and across the country. During COVID-19, Oklahoma small businesses have been hit hard and I am glad to have worked with the Trump administration to bring over $5.4 billion to them for relief. I look forward to continuing to advocate for their priorities in Congress. The NFIB Guardian of Small Business Award is awarded to lawmakers who small businesses can truly count on, said Kevin Kuhlman, NFIB Vice President of Federal Government Relations. These Members of the U.S. Senate are dedicated supporters of the key issues that our members are concerned about and have proven themselves to be real champions for small business. Our policy positions are driven by our members, and we report NFIB Key Votes back to our membership. We are proud to recognize Senator Inhofe for earning this distinction in the 116th Congress by taking pro-small business votes supporting financial assistance programs and opposing increased labor costs. Small business owners across the country need his support now more than ever during these unprecedented times, and we are grateful to Senator Inhofe for his leadership. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-speaks-on-the-senate-floor-honoring-the-heroic-service-of-tulsa-police-officer | Inhofe Speaks on the Senate Floor Honoring the Heroic Service of Tulsa Police Officer | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Yesterday, Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) spoke on the Senate floor honoring the heroic service of Tulsa Police Officer Aurash Zarkeshan. Officer Zarkeshan was attacked earlier this year during a routine traffic stop and is continuing to recover. As Prepared for Delivery: Earlier this year, Aurash Zarkeshan or Zark as his friends and family knew him, was overjoyed. He had just graduated from the Tulsa Police Academy and was sworn in as a police officer. Zark was a shining example of everything that you want in a new officer. Bright, engaged and committed to public service. He wanted to give back and make his community a better place.At the end of June, with only six weeks on patrol, he pulled over a car for a routine traffic stop. But as we all know, nothing is routine for law enforcement. He and Sgt. Craig Johnson pulled the car over, and what happened next was horrifying and tragic.They were viciously shot in the head during that stop despite many attempts to de-escalate the situation. Tragically, Sgt. Johnson succumbed to his injuries while Zark remained in critical condition. Sgt. Johnson, left behind his wife Kristi and sons: Connor and Clinton. In that moment of sorrow, the Tulsa community united in prayer and hope for the recovery of Zark. Since the shooting, Zark has undergone several surgeries and spent months recovering in rehab. Throughout these months, Zark provided us with updates on his recovery and the progress he's been making - even calling into a class of new Tulsa PD recruits. His progress is truly remarkable and as Tulsa Police Captain Kimberly Lee put it, He really is an example for all of us. That's exactly right. Zark is a hero. He persevered through extraordinary pain and strife and is now making a speedy recovery. And last week, on October 15th, Zark returned home from three months of rehab and was met by friends, family and supporters who welcomed him with open arms. Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum declared October 15th Officer Aurash Zarkeshan Day and proclaimed that Zark is Tulsa's Hope. I couldn… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-speaks-on-the-senate-floor-in-support-of-judge-barrett | Inhofe Speaks on the Senate Floor in Support of Judge Barrett | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | Yesterday, Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) spoke on the Senate floor in support of President Trump's judicial nominee, Judge Amy Coney Barrett, to serve on the United States Supreme Court. As Prepared for Delivery:I'm also proud to speak today in support of President Trump's outstanding nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. To say Judge Barrett is qualified to serve on the Supreme Court is an understatement. Judge Barrett is the definition of a leader, and her record of accomplishment is second to none. Born in New Orleans, she went on to graduate from Rhodes College in Memphis and also Notre Dame Law School graduating at the top of her class. That is worth pointing out, because, when confirmed, she will be the only Justice on the bench who didn't go to Harvard or Yale. That's a good thing. She clerked for one of America's finest Supreme Court Justices the late Antonin Scalia. Since 2002, she's taught law at Notre Dame where she was selected Distinguished Professor of the Year three different times. And in 2017, after being attacked by Democrats about her strong faith, she was confirmed to the Seventh Circuit by this body with Democrat votes. Let me say that again Judge Barrett was confirmed with bipartisan support just three years ago. But today, liberals are recycling their same stale tactics in an attempt to tarnish another exceptional nominee without any basis in fact or truth. They are attacking her Catholic faith and some operatives have even attacked her for adopting children from Haiti I'm not kidding. It should go without saying that Judge Barrett should be commended for this loving, selfless act not disparaged for it. I know personally that adoption is one of God's greatest gifts. I am the proud grandfather of Zegita Marie. While I found her during a mission in Ethiopia, my daughter and son-in-law adopted her as a baby. She is in college now and is one of my greatest blessings. But like clockwork, Democrats use bogus propaganda to try to scare the American people into opposing a Republi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-votes-to-confirm-judge-barrett-to-supreme-court | Inhofe Votes to Confirm Judge Barrett to Supreme Court | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) voted to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to be the next Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Barrett was confirmed by a vote of 52-48. View and download Sen. Inhofe's reaction video here. It was an honor to vote to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett today to the Supreme Court, Inhofe said. Time and time again, Judge Barrett has shown her commitment to upholding the rule of law and Constitution throughout her career. I know she will continue to make the American people proud of her service as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. Background Sen. Inhofe spoke on the Senate Floor in support of Judge Barrett's nomination yesterday. Linkhere.Sen. Inhofe met with Judge Barrett on October 21, 2020. Photos, b-roll and Sen. Inhofe's reaction videohere.Sen. Inhofe's op-ed in the Woodward News praising Judge Barrett on October 13, 2020 can be foundhere.Sen. Inhofe praised President Trump's nomination of Judge Barrett on September 26, 2020. Linkhere. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-disappointed-in-democrats-baseless-smear-campaign-on-judge-barrett | Lankford Disappointed in Democrats Baseless Smear Campaign on Judge Barrett | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.26.20 Lankford Disappointed in Democrats' Baseless Smear Campaign on Judge Barrett Lankford: I look forward to the day when false accusations are seen for what they really are. CLICK HERE to watch Lankford's remarks on the floor. CLICK HERE to download Lankford's remarks from Box. WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today delivered a harsh rebuke of the Democrats' smear campaign of Judge Amy Coney Barrett on the floor of the Senate over the weekend and in the weeks prior that included misleading insinuations or outright accusations that she wants to take away health care, supports voter suppression, and even that she is some kind of closet segregationist. Last week, Lankford met with Judge Barrett to discuss religious liberty, anti-trust laws, and a variety of other issues. Lankford expressed support for President Trump's nominationof Judge Barrett on September 26 afterpreviously supporting her nominationto fill a vacancy on the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals in 2017. After the partisan attacks against Judge Barrett's devoutCatholic faith reignited in the media, Lankfordspoke on the Senate flooron September 30 in support of Judge Barrett's ability to practiceher faith and serve as a highly qualified member of the Judicial Branch. Lankford also joined Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK)to publish an op-edon October 20 in support of Judge Barrett's nomination. Transcript For the past several years, I've heard some pretty remarkable stories from the other side of the aisle and from the national media. We heard from an Atlantic article that the President called service members killed in action' losers,' spread all over the place until it was refuted flatly by 14 different officials that were on the trip. We heard claims that the Trump Administration had deployed federal troops to Portland, and they were taking over the streets of Portland until leadership of ICE and of DHS came to Congress and re… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.lankford.senate.gov/news/press-releases/lankford-supports-judge-amy-coney-barrett-to-supreme-court_ | Lankford Supports Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court | 2020-10-26 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Lankford | L000575 | www.lankford.senate.gov | legacy | 10.26.20 Lankford Supports Judge Amy Coney Barrett to Supreme Court WASHINGTON, DC Senator James Lankford (R-OK) today issued the following statement on his support for Judge Amy Coney Barrett to be Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Judge Barrett was confirmed by the Senate in a vote of 52-48. I congratulate Judge Amy Coney Barrett and her family on her confirmation to the United States Supreme Court, said Lankford. Throughout her nomination process, Judge Barrett's qualifications to serve on the Supreme Court were made abundantly clear. She received the American Bar Association's highest rating and was unwavering in her commitment to the rule of law and role of the judiciary. I took the time to review her qualifications, understand her judicial philosophy, and learn more about who she is as an individual. Judge Barrett is a jurist, a scholar, a mother, a wife, a mentor, and a great example for young women and legal minds in our nation. She understands that there is no such thing as a Republican judge or a Democrat judge, but independent jurists who are separate from the political branches of our government. She is committed to being a fair justice who will uphold and follow the law, not her personal preference. After being nominated to the Supreme Court, Judge Barrett and her family faced unwarranted criticism about their faith and family structure. We are a nation that cherishes the free exercise of religion. Article VI of the Constitution makes it clear that no religious test is ever required to serve in any public office. The Senate vets nominees based on their qualifications and temperament, not on their sincerely held religious beliefs. As we move forward, I hope our nation and the Senate continue to honor Article VI and refrain from imposing a religious test on any nominee for any public office. Judge Barrett is active in her community and is a dedicated wife and mother to seven children. In her opening statements during her hearing, she shared that she is used t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-named-guardian-small-business-nfib | Cole Named a Guardian of Small Business by NFIB | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he was named a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). Awarded every Congress, the recognition is given to legislators who vote in favor of key policies and priorities for small businesses. During his service in the U.S. House of Representatives, Cole has received the award every Congress. "I am honored to receive the Guardian of Small Business Award for my longstanding and unwavering commitment to small businesses, which employ millions of Americans. While this has been a difficult year for everyone, small business owners and their dedicated workers have been some of the hardest hit by the wrath of the coronavirus pandemic. As our nation navigates the remaining challenges and works to recover and rebuild our economy, one of the best things we can do is help our small business job creators survive these difficult times. Our nation's prosperity depends on their existence. In the days ahead, I will continue to stand with small businesses." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:34:36Z |
| https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-retirement-osu-president-burns-hargis | Cole Statement on Retirement of OSU President Burns Hargis | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | Tom Cole | C001053 | cole.house.gov | cole | https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after Burns Hargis announced his plans to retire as president of Oklahoma State University (OSU) on July 1, 2021. "I want to offer my deepest congratulations and best wishes to my dear friends Burns and Ann Hargis, who have done a remarkable job at the helm of Oklahoma State University for more than a decade. I have always greatly admired their close partnership and shared desire to see OSU's students and campus thrive. OSU is certainly better off because of the historic contributions they have made and improvements they have fostered together. "Leading OSU as president has clearly been both a dream job and labor of love for Burns Hargis, who once attended the university himself. Throughout his distinguished public service to his alma mater, he has always led with a great deal of decency and civility. Indeed, his leadership has even fostered an era of unprecedented collaboration and cooperation between Oklahoma's two flagship universities, a move which has been productive and valuable for both OSU and the University of Oklahoma. "Although Burns and Ann will be greatly missed when they step down next summer, their legacy will be permanently felt on campus, by the surrounding communities and the state as a whole." | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:34:36Z |
| https://www.inhofe.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/inhofe-statement-on-retirement-of-president-hargis | Inhofe Statement on Retirement of President Hargis | 2020-10-23 | 2020 | 2020-10 | Republican | House | OK | James Inhofe | I000024 | www.inhofe.senate.gov | legacy | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), issued the following statement after Oklahoma State University President Burns Hargis announced his retirement today: Burns Hargis is an outstanding public servant for Oklahoma State University and I am truly sad to hear of his retirement, Inhofe said. When I encouraged him to take the position of president years ago, no one knew the lasting impact he would have on the Cowboy family. Burns and his wife, Ann, made Oklahoma State University a home for thousands of Oklahoma State students over the yearstreating them like their own kids. Burns is a true embodiment of the Cowboy way and I wish him well in his retirement. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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