url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-water-resources-development-act-2026,Cole Votes in Favor of Water Resources Development Act of 2026,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026: “Last night, the House voted in a bipartisan manner to address important water resource needs throughout our nation. This legislation will improve water resources infrastructure across our nation, grow the American economy, build and maintain safe waterways, improve flood protection, and more,” said Congressman Cole. “I’d like to thank House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Sam Graves of Missouri for his work on this legislation, as it will deliver much needed benefits to so many American communities, including the Fourth District of Oklahoma.” Oklahoma District Four Wins in H.R. 9497 Increased the authorization from $15 million to $20 million for the Midwest City Water Infrastructure Project for a new water tank and booster pump station. $45 million in authorization for construction of new water lines from Oklahoma City to Newcastle, Tuttle, Goldsby, and Blanchard. This will help allow for a more regionalized water system in the area that will keep rates lower and reduce maintenance over time. Arbuckle-Timbered Hills Aquifer Recharge and Regional Water Supply Feasibility Study, which will evaluate storage capacity and recharge potential, assess opportunities for managed aquifer recharge and aquifer storage to serve communities in Lawton and at Fort Sill. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bices-bureau-land-management-mineral-spacing-act-advances-out-natural,Rep. Bice's Bureau of Land Management Mineral Spacing Act Advances out of Natural Resources Committee,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, H.R. 1555, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Mineral Spacing Act, passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee. The legislation would address duplicative federal permitting requirements for oil and natural gas development on lands where the federal government holds minority ownership. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I’m proud to advance this commonsense legislation that respects private mineral owners and supports American energy production. Right now, energy projects can be forced to go through both state and federal permitting processes even when the federal government owns less than half of the subsurface estate. The BLM Mineral Spacing Act would eliminate this duplicative process and allow these projects to move forward under applicable state and private requirements, while still protecting the federal government’s mineral interests and royalties.” Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) issued the following statement: “Duplicative federal permitting requirements delay American energy production without improving oversight. H.R. 1555 allows operators with state-approved permits to move forward when the surface is nonfederal and less than half of the subsurface mineral estate is federally owned, establishing a more predictable process. I commend Rep. Bice for advancing a practical solution that respects state regulators, maintains federal accountability and supports President Trump’s commitment to American energy dominance.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-companion-legislation-supporting-miami-tribe-oklahoma-passes-us-house,Cole Companion Legislation Supporting the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma Passes the U.S. House of Representatives and Heads to the White House,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after S. 550, the Senate companion legislation to his bill, H.R. 2827, passed the United States House of Representatives and now heads to the President’s desk for final signature. This legislation, originally introduced by then-Senator Markwayne Mullin, passed the Senate at the end of 2025. “Today was a testament of Congress upholding its trust and treaty responsibility,” said Congressman Cole. “This straightforward, bipartisan piece of legislation will not only provide finality for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, but also certainty for the landowners and farmers in Illinois who have been living on this land for generations. After years of advocacy, the Miami Tribe will finally be able to have their rightful day in court and present their case for the land that was illegally sold by the United States. I’d like to thank the House Natural Resources Committee leadership for bringing this important piece of legislation to the Floor, Congresswoman McCollum for her collaboration on this bill, and Secretary Mullin for his work on this legislation during his time in the Senate. As a tribal member myself, I could not be more honored to play a small role in this victory for the Miami Tribe and their citizens.” Chief Lankford of the Miami Tribe said, “The Miami Nation – past, present, and future – thank Chairman Cole and Secretary Mullin for making this bill a reality. They are warriors for Indian Country and all people who seek justice. Representative McCollum, Senator Durbin, and Representative Bost also deserve high praise for all their support. We are humbled by all their work for our members and for our ancestors who negotiated these rights during a time of unbelievable pressure and change. Chairman Cole, Secretary Mullin, and our allies did not forget their sacrifice and today Congress is finally vindicating their visionary foresight in protecting the tribes’ lands.” Background: In 1805, the Miami Tribe, Eel River Band, and Wea signed the Treaty of Grouseland, which under Article Four reserved all lands within the Wabash River watershed and land located west of the Wabash River, which is in present-day Illinois. From 1805 to 1840, the United States transferred 2.6 million acres of this land to non-native settlers without having acquired title from the tribes. As a result, title to that land is still held by the Miami Tribe’s superior claim to title and the tribe never consented to that land being purchased. S. 550, the companion bill to H.R. 2827, will simply allow the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma to have their rightful day in court and extinguish all claims to this land in Illinois. It will remedy the mistake made by the federal government nearly two centuries ago by resolving the land claim and providing finality and certainty to both the Tribe and the landowners in Illinois. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-and-womack-introduce-no-preference-act,Bice and Womack Introduce the No Preference Act,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05) introduced the No Preference Act with Congressman Steve Womack (AR-03) serving as co-lead. This legislation would prevent the Executive Branch from giving preference to federal contractors based solely on whether their workers are part of a collective bargaining agreement. “Every qualified contractor deserves a fair opportunity to compete for federal projects,”said Congresswoman Bice.“The government should not favor one individual over another simply because their workers are part of a union. This legislation ensures that right to work states, like Oklahoma, have an equal footing when competing for contracts.” “When our federal government selects a contractor, the decision should be based on merit and the most efficient use of resources entrusted by the American taxpayer,”said Congressman Womack. “The playing field shouldn’t be skewed toward contractors who choose to use union labor. I am proud to join Congresswoman Bice's efforts to ensure all businesses and workers have the same opportunities to compete for federal work regardless of labor agreement.” “ABC applauds Rep. Bice for introducing legislation that puts taxpayers first,”said Kristen Swearingen, ABC vice president of government affairs. “Federal contracts should be awarded based on performance and value, not because the government favors one type of labor agreement over another. This bill allows contractors to decide for themselves whether to sign a union agreement and gives every qualified contractor and skilled worker a fair chance to compete. More competition means more opportunities for workers and better value for taxpayers.” Executive Director at the Association of Oklahoma General Contractors said“We believe that fair open competition is always the best path forward. The only preference should be for qualified contractors to bid aggressively!"" Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-introduces-resolution-congratulating-ou-baseball-team-winning-2026-mens,Cole Introduces Resolution Congratulating the OU Baseball Team for Winning the 2026 Men's College World Series,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) introduced H. Res. 1500, which congratulates the University of Oklahoma men’s baseball team on their College World Series National Championship. After introducing the resolution, Congressman Cole and Coach Skip Johnson released the following statements: “As my fellow Oklahomans know, Coach Skip Johnson and the OU men’s baseball team pulled off one of the most historic triumphs in NCAA baseball history this past season when they beat the University of North Carolina in the College World Series. After making it through the Atlanta Regional, our unranked Sooners ended up outscoring their remaining opponents 90 to 28 – and as a diehard OU fan, I am so proud. This is why I introduced House Resolution 1500, congratulating the team and recognizing the hard work that led to the Sooners victory,” said Congressman Cole. “As always, Boomer!” “We are appreciative of Chairman Cole and the House of Representatives, as well as the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, for their unwavering support of our program. We felt the whole state behind us on our run to Omaha and the national championship. Just like the state of Oklahoma, our program is built on the values of hard work and commitment to something bigger than yourself. Our players bought in on the greater goal and the passion of our fan base was on display for the entire nation,” said Coach Skip Johnson. ###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-continuing-resolution-fund-government,Bice Supports Continuing Resolution to Fund the Government,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Bice voted in support of a continuing resolution to fund the government through December 11, 2026. Importantly, this funding maintains Republican spending levels and includes priorities of the Trump Administration. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills through regular order out of committee. In July, the House passed a continuing resolution to fully fund the government. The Senate recently amended the legislation forcing the House to pass it again before it can be signed into law by President Trump. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I am incredibly proud of the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills out of our committee. However, due to delays and disruption by Senate Democrats, a continuing resolution was needed to avoid another partisan, Democrat-driven government wide shutdown. This legislation is straightforward, continues responsible spending, and contains no poison pills, ensuring we put the American people ahead of politics.”",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-avert-partisan-october-shutdown,Cole Votes to Avert a Partisan October Shutdown,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Senate Amendments to H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027: “Today’s vote is the culmination of House Republicans moving proactively, decisively, and strategically earlier this summer. The action we took paved the way for the Senate to promptly engage in the process, and I am proud to say we are now sending this funding extension to President Trump without waiting for the clock to run out,” said Congressman Cole. “Responsible governance means putting the well-being and stability of the nation first, and this legislation does just that. It protects our national security, preserves critical services, and denies partisan shutdown agitators the leverage they have repeatedly sought. The bill is simple by design – no poison polls, no divisive wish lists, and no political gimmicks. Just a clean, straightforward measure that keeps the government working, provides more time to address full-year bills, and trades the familiar cycle of Senate Democrat brinkmanship for something far more useful: certainty,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-welcomes-hud-secretary-scott-turner-oklahomas-fifth-district,Bice Welcomes HUD Secretary Scott Turner to Oklahoma's Fifth District,2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – On Friday, Congresswoman Bice welcomed HUD Secretary Scott Turner to Oklahoma City and Pivot’s Tiny Home community, which provides stable housing and supportive services for youth aged 16-24. Pivot is a nonprofit in Oklahoma City that offers programs such as counseling, educational and vocational training, housing, and intervention and diversion services for youth aged 12-24, who are homeless or are otherwise at-risk. The pair also visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum to pay tribute to the federal employees who lost their lives in the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. “Secretary Turner’s visit to Pivot allowed him to witness the incredible work being done in our community to provide support services for foster youth. First Lady Melania Trump has made foster care a pivotal part of her platform, and organizations like Pivot are vital to that mission,”said Congresswoman Bice. “I also appreciate his willingness to pay tribute to the individuals who lost their lives in the Oklahoma City Bombing. If you want to understand Oklahoma City, it is essential to visit this museum, and witness how the city came together in its aftermath to create the Oklahoma Standard. I want to thank the Secretary for visiting my district, and I appreciate the Trump Administration’s continued support for Oklahoma.” “It was a privilege to see firsthand the extraordinary work Pivot is doing to help vulnerable youth. Through their tiny homes village and wrap around services, they are helping Oklahoma’s youth move from homelessness to self-sufficiency,” said HUD Secretary Turner. ""I am grateful to Congresswoman Bice for her steadfast commitment to empowering local organizations that know their communities best and are delivering real results.” Secretary Turner continued, “While in Oklahoma City, it was a profound honor to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial to pay tribute to the 35 HUD employees who lost their lives in the bombing. America is a resilient nation, and we will never forget the precious people who perished on that day. I am proud to support the HUD family in Oklahoma and all across our Nation. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1595,Congressman Brecheen Announces August Town Halls,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 3, 2026 Congressman Brecheen Announces August Town Halls Oklahoma–On Monday, Congressman Brecheen announced his August town hall schedule which includes stops in 15 different cities. Monday, August 24th, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am Tishomingo Town Hall Johnston County Library 116 W. Main St. Tishomingo, OK 73460 10:00am - 11:00am Durant Town Hall Donald W. Reynolds Library 1515 W. Main St. Durant, OK 74701 12:00pm - 1:00pm Coalgate Town Hall Coal County Public Library 115 W. Ohio Ave. Coalgate, OK 74538 2:00pm - 3:00pm McAlester Town Hall Southeast Expo Center Room 101 4500 W. US Highway 270 McAlester, OK 74501 4:00pm - 5:00pm Holdenville Town Hall Grace M. Pickens Public Library 209 E. 9th St. Holdenville, OK 74848 6:00pm - 7:00pm Okemah Town Hall Okfuskee County Historical Society 407 W. Broadway Street Okemah, OK 74859 Tuesday, August 25th, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am Jay Town Hall Delaware County Library 429 South 9th Street Jay, OK 74346 10:00am - 11:00am Chouteau Town Hall Chouteau Town Hall 111 S. Lewis St. Chouteau, OK 74337 2:00pm - 3:00pm Claremore Town Hall Claremore Conference Center Will Rogers South Ballroom 1400 W. Country Club Rd. Claremore, OK 74017 6:00pm - 7:00pm Bartlesville Town Hall Tri County Tech Event Center 6101 Nowata Rd. Bartlesville, OK 74006 Wednesday, August 26th, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am Muskogee Town Hall Martin Luther King Center Conference Room 300 W. Martin Luther King St. Muskogee, OK 74401 12:00pm - 1:00pm Eufaula Town Hall Eufaula Memorial Library 301 S. First St. Eufaula, OK 74432 2:00pm - 3:00pm Wilburton Town Hall Latimer County Public Library 301 W. Ada Ave. Wilburton, OK 74578 4:00pm - 5:00pm Poteau Town Hall Donald W. Reynolds Community Center 105 Reynolds Ave. Poteau, OK 74953 7:00pm - 8:00pm Broken Bow Town Hall Broken Bow Library 404 N. Broadway St. Broken Bow, OK 74728 for all press inquiries: kate.bryan@mail.house.gov ###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-advocates-for-fiscal-responsibility-supports-the-common-cents-act,"Rep. Lucas Advocates for Fiscal Responsibility, Supports the Common Cents Act",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), a member of the House Financial Services Committee and Chairman of the House Financial Services Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, delivered remarks on the House floor advocating for fiscal responsibility by supporting the Common Cents Act. The legislation would codify President Trump’s order to the Treasury to stop production of the one-cent piece, along with allowing the Mint to produce a more cost-effective nickel. Remarks as prepared for delivery: I rise today in strong support of the Common Cents Act. This bill has been over a year in the making with my colleagues Ms. McClain and Ranking Member Waters, and I am proud of the product we have put forward. The one-cent piece, or the penny as it’s commonly called, costs almost four cents to produce. 2024 was the 19th consecutive year the U.S. government lost money keeping the penny in circulation. That is why last year the President rightly ordered the Treasury Department to stop wasting hard-earned taxpayer dollars to produce the coin and why we’re excited to move forward in codifying this action. The Common Cents Act also gives flexibility to the Mint to produce a nickel with cheaper materials. In 1866, Congress mandated the nickel be produced from an ally of copper and nickel, and we haven’t updated the composition since. This bill gives the Mint flexibility to produce a cheaper coin while retaining Congress’ responsibility of coining money. Finally, the bill provides certainty for businesses in their cash transactions with customers, without mandating price controls from the government. We are proud to boast endorsements from the National Retail Federation, National Grocers Association, United Steelworkers International Union, and the American Bankers Association, among many others. I want to thank Ms. McClain and Ranking Member Waters for their leadership on this issue, and I look forward to enjoying broad bipartisan support from this Body today. I reserve the balance of my time. ###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-delivers-opening-statement-at-chairman-warshs-first-financial-services-committee-hearing,Rep. Lucas Delivers Opening Statement at Chairman Warsh’s First Financial Services Committee Hearing,2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), Chairman of the House Financial Services Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, delivered an opening statement at the House Financial Services Committee hearing on The Federal Reserve’s Semi-Annual Monetary Policy Report. The hearing is Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh’s first testimony before Congress as Chairman of the Fed. Remarks as prepared for delivery: Welcome Chairman Warsh to your first hearing as Chairman and congratulations on your confirmation. We look forward to your testimony today on the Monetary Policy Report. In your first meeting you announced a number of welcome reforms including establishing five task forces that many members are eager to get your thoughts on. For example, former Chair Powell had committed to a review of the Fed’s communications tools, and though we expected that to be completed last August alongside the review of the consensus statement, it has yet to be done. A review of the Fed’s communications tools is long overdue, and we look forward to your focus on completing that project through the task force. We’ve also spent time this Congress examining the composition and size of the Fed’s balance sheet, an effort that you are now undertaking at the Fed. It is vital that the Fed get this right; we welcome continued collaboration on that front. We have a lot to talk about today – I look forward to your testimony and our discussion. I yield back. ###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-budget-reconciliation-bill-0,Bice Supports Budget Reconciliation Bill,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives took the first step in passing their third reconciliation bill of the 119th Congress. This concurrent resolution instructs three committees: the Committee on House Administration, the Armed Services Committee, and the Agriculture Committee to draft legislative text to secure America’s elections and support our troops and farmers. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Administration Committee and has supported voter ID and the Save Act both in committee and on the House floor. Reconciliation bills only require a simple majority in the Senate. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Strengthening our military, securing our elections, and supporting our farmers are all essential in keeping America safe, secure, and prosperous. This budget resolution takes the first step in ensuring that our troops have the munitions they need to protect themselves and our homeland. Importantly, it also mimics my legislation, the STEADFAST Act, which contains budgetary mechanisms to help secure our elections, in line with the SAVE Act. This is a critical step in the process, and I was proud to support it.” More information on the STEADFAST Act, which passed the House Administration Committee, can be found here. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-continuing-resolution,Bice Supports Continuing Resolution,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Bice supported a continuing resolution to fund government through December 4, 2026. Importantly, this funding maintains Republican spending levels and priorities of the Trump Administration. Congresswoman Bice serves on the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills through regular order out of committee. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I am incredibly proud of the leadership of Chairman Tom Cole and the House Appropriations Committee, which successfully passed all twelve bills out of our committee. However, due to the inaction of Senate Democrats, a clean continuing resolution is needed to prevent a partisan, Democrat-driven government-wide shutdown, similar to what we witnessed last year. With the current Fiscal Year ending on September 30th, this legislation is straightforward and continues responsible spending with no poison pills. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to take up this legislation and put the American people ahead of politics."" Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-legislation-stop-insider-trading,Bice Supports Legislation to Stop Insider Trading,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C.- Today, the House passed the Stop Insider Trading Act, legislation to strengthen transparency and accountability in Congress. This legislation prohibits Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing individual stocks and establishes additional public disclosure requirements for stock sales. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I was proud to be an original co-sponsor of the Stop Insider Trading Act. The American people deserve to know their elected officials are serving the public, not their own financial interests. Members of Congress should be held to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, and this legislation is an important step toward restoring trust in Congress.” Bill Summary: The Stop Insider Trading Act would: Ban Members of Congress, their spouses, and their dependent children from purchasing securities issued by publicly traded companies. Require Members of Congress to file a public notice with the Clerk of the House or the Secretary of the Senate at least 7 days, but no more than 14 days before any intended stock sale. Require the House Ethics Committee to assess a penalty equal to the greater value of $2,000 or 10% of the covered investment Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-fiscal-year-2027-national-defense-authorization-act,Cole Votes in Favor of Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation authorizes funding for military capabilities, personnel policies, industrial-base reforms, and national security priorities needed to keep America safe. After voting in favor of the NDAA, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “During this time when our nation is facing the most dangerous threat environment in generations, protecting our nation’s defense is critical. Today, I cast my vote to do exactly that. The Fiscal Year 2027 NDAA increases pay for our selfless men and women in uniform, revitalizes American military strength, restores lethal capabilities, and strengthens deterrence by implementing President Trump’s peace through strength agenda - all while at the same time eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse at the Pentagon,” said Congressman Cole. “Through passing the NDAA on the House Floor today, Republicans sent this very clear message to the rest of the world: our warfighters have the weapons to win, and our adversaries should stay in their lane.” ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-keep-government-working-american-people,Cole Votes to Keep the Government Working for the American People,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. - Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of his own legislation, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027, to keep the government open and working for the American people. After the legislation passed the House, Congressman Cole released the following statement: ""Too many members of Congress mistake a cliff's edge for political leverage – and this bill refuses to reward those who depend on obstruction and chaos. Instead, it puts certainty and stability for the nation first. There is no virtue in waiting until every option has disappeared before deciding to act. This legislation protects our national security, preserves critical services, and removes any party from seeking to manufacture shutdown leverage before elections. There are no poison pills, no political gimmicks, and no partisan riders – just a clean, straightforward stopgap. So, today leaves no question where House Republicans stand – we chose responsibility over crisis, leadership over politics, and governing over gamesmanship. That is what Article I demands, and it is exactly what the American people expect,"" said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4186,Hern Applauds Passage of FY27 National Defense Authorization Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) today voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The FY27 NDAA strengthens America’s national defense by revitalizing the defense industrial base, improving quality of life for servicemembers and their families, and investing in the production and acquisition of key capabilities needed to protect the United States and our allies around the world. “Under the weak leadership of the Biden administration, our military suffered as supply chains weakened, recruitment declined, critical programs stalled, and our adversaries grew emboldened,” said Rep. Hern. “But with President Trump as Commander-in-Chief, readiness and lethality have been restored in our Armed Forces. The FY27 NDAA delivers a well-earned pay raise for servicemembers, strengthens the United States’ defense industrial base, and provides our troops with the resources, equipment, and support they need to defend our interests at home and abroad. The only way to secure peace is through strength, and this legislation ensures our military remains the most capable fighting force in the world.” ###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-passing-former-member-congress-tim-murphy,Cole Statement on the Passing of Former Member of Congress Tim Murphy,2026-07-20,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after hearing of the passing of a former member of Congress from Pennsylvania, Tim Murphy: “I am incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of my former congressional classmate and friend, Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania. Tim was a man who truly dedicated his life to serving others, leaving behind a legacy defined by his unwavering commitment to our great nation. “Tim served his state in the Pennsylvania State Senate and then went on to represent his community in the United States House of Representatives. During his time in Washington, he was an active and productive member of our Conference, serving his constituents with dedication and passion. “In 2009, while representing Pennsylvania’s 18th Congressional District in Congress, he decided to expand his service by joining and earning a commission in the United States military. He was a passionate advocate for those living with PTSD, providing support to countless service members and veterans. All of this proves one thing to be true: Tim Murphy was a long-time public servant. He served our nation through both the legislative branch and the military, touching countless lives along the way, and his service will not be forgotten. “My thoughts, prayers, and condolences are with his family, his friends, and all of those who had the pleasure of working with and knowing Tim Murphy. May he rest in peace,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-07-21T07:32:02Z,2026-07-21T07:33:33Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-counter-adversaries-reinforce-security-and-advance-america-first,"Cole Votes to Counter Adversaries, Reinforce Security, and Advance America First Diplomacy",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R.8595, the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation acts to maintain robust funding for our allies, counters our adversaries, and supports President Trump’s vision to refocus and realign foreign policy to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. After voting in favor of the legislation, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “True leadership isn't merely declared – it is upheld through the choices we make, the priorities we fund, and the resolve we show in putting America first and protecting our national interests. This legislation reflects that philosophy by replacing the drift of previous administrations with direction and ensuring our investments bolster U.S. security, influence, and prosperity. President Trump has made clear that our nation will lead with purpose and confidence – both at home and on the world stage. The Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee Chairman Díaz-Balart answered that call with legislation that prioritizes strength over symbolism, strategy over bureaucracy, and results over rhetoric. It directs resources to the highest-impact national security and economic priorities by reinforcing our alliances, pushing back decisively against adversaries like Communist China, and confronting illicit actors and transnational networks. It also eliminates billions in unnecessary spending because great nations are defined not by how much they spend, but by how wisely they invest. Today's passage demonstrates Article I in action – where the power of the purse strengthens America's security, advances our values, and ensures a stronger future,” said Congressman Cole. Key Provisions in the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, Fiscal Year 2027 Champions America First foreign policy by redefining foreign assistance to promote self-sufficiency, bolster economic growth and stability, and protect United States national security. Codifies President Trump’s executive orders to ensure no wasteful spending on DEI or woke programs, climate change mandates, or radical gender ideologies. Prioritizes funds and policies to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States. Maintains all long-standing pro-life protections. Allows only the American flag and other official flags to be flown over United States embassies or consulates. Holds foreign governments accountable for persecuting people of faith. Provides unwavering support for Israel. Includes Foreign Military Assistance for Taiwan and the Philippines. Denies the Chinese Communist Party access to U.S. backed resources. Prohibits funds to the Taliban. Prioritizes fiscal sanity and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse by strategically investing in partners to help them achieve long-term goals in the interest of United States national security. ###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-passing-senator-lindsey-graham,Cole Statement on Passing of Senator Lindsey Graham,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"July 13, 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina: ""There are few corners of Capitol Hill where South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham wasn't known. Whether you knew him personally or simply watched him at work, he was impossible to ignore. ""Lindsey was a ubiquitous presence in Washington – with few office holders as visible, quotable, or energetic as him. For more than three decades, he served throughout the House and Senate – building a reputation as a determined legislator, a media presence, and a dealmaker. From the green rooms to the global stage, Lindsey was always in the middle of the debate, making the case for what he believed in for South Carolina and the nation. ""When it came to foreign affairs, Graham was an old-fashioned statesman and hawk. He believed America was a force for good in the world, and he never hesitated to confront those who threatened our interests and our allies – from Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea to terrorist organizations around the globe. ""As Appropriators serving in different chambers, we worked together and shared a commitment to a strong national defense. I always appreciated his insight, his candor, and his willingness to pick up the phone to exchange ideas, discuss Oklahoma figures or issues, or strategize how we could bridge differences between the House and Senate. He was never shy about calling to seek advice, compare notes, or test his own impressions – a quality that reflected both his confidence and his respect for the views of others. ""Lindsey approached public service with boundless energy, sharp wit, and genuine optimism. He loved serving in Congress, and it showed every day. He was a gifted communicator, a persuasive advocate, and someone who never lost his enthusiasm for the institution or for the work of governing. ""I will miss Senator Lindsey Graham, and so will the Congress he served so faithfully. His gregarious nature always left us with points made crispy, cleanly, and with a laugh. That energy and humor certainly made him the ‘happy warrior’ of his political generation. His leadership, collegiality, and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed,"" said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-applauds-vance-air-force-bases-selection-as-home-for-new-usaf-training-system,Rep. Lucas Applauds Vance Air Force Base’s Selection as Home for New USAF Training System,2026-07-08,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) applauded the announcement of Vance Air Force Base (AFB) as the fourth T-7A Main Operating Base. The Air Force will replace T-38C aircraft at Vance AFB with T-7A deliveries. The Department of the Air Force (DAF) will support all aspects of the T-7A recapitalization, including the construction and upgrades to operations, support, and maintenance facilities to support pilot training and aircraft operation and maintenance. In aircraft alone, this decision represents an investment of up to $2 billion at Vance AFB. “I’m pleased to see Vance Air Force Base’s selection as home for the new T-7A, which is an investment into the community of Enid,” said Representative Lucas. “With the largest military operating area, cheapest pilot training pipeline cost, and a fourth runway, Vance Air Force Base is a seamless partner for the Air Force to integrate the T-7A. I thank our community that has worked for decades at the local, state, and federal level of government to ensure that Vance Air Force Base is best equipped to best support the next generation of USAF pilots and their loved ones.” “We very much appreciate being selected as the premier location for the maximum deployment of the new T-7A aircraft,” said Michael Cooper, Chairman of the Vance Development Authority. “Due to our excellent community and base relationship, we continue to be successful in our efforts to enhance the base, bringing support from all levels to assist with increasing mission capabilities. With this decision and new personnel it brings to Vance AFB, Enid will need to continue our efforts to develop more affordable available homes and expand our efforts to create water resiliency and alternative energy options for the base.” “I was very pleased to learn that Vance AFB will be receiving the T-7A,” said David Mason, Mayor of Enid, OK. “I think this shows the trust and relationship the Air Force has for Enid and the relationship Enid has for Vance and its continued mission to train the best pilots in the Air Force. Our community will continue to diligently work towards providing all the Infrastructure and Quality of life needs for Vance AFB to increase and enhance its mission capabilities. I’m proud to live in Enid, home of Vance AFB.” Background: The U.S. Air Force T-7A Recapitalization Program replaces the aging T-38C fleet with a modern advanced trainer designed to better prepare pilots for 4th-, 5th-, and future 6th-generation aircraft. It fields a new training system that integrates the T-7A aircraft with advanced simulators, ground-based training, and updated infrastructure across key pilot training bases. The decision is intended to provide the Air Force with operational flexibility, and inclusion of this alternative in this EIS provides analysis to evaluate future capacity needs. ###",1,2026-07-09T08:24:13Z,2026-07-09T08:26:05Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-hosts-house-financial-services-task-force-field-hearing-in-okc,Rep. Lucas Hosts House Financial Services Task Force Field Hearing in OKC,2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"The hearing focused on the structure of the Federal Reserve System Oklahoma City, OK – Recently, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), Chairman of the House Financial Services Task Force on Monetary Policy, Treasury Market Resilience, and Economic Prosperity, hosted a field hearing in Oklahoma City discussing the importance of the federated structure of the Federal Reserve system with the Reserve Banks providing geographic and industrial expertise. “It was a great day in Oklahoma City hosting several respected witnesses and hearing their perspective on the importance of our Federal Reserve structure,” said Representative Lucas. “The private-public partnership Reserve Banks have with our central bank serves as a check against the federal government dominating our monetary system. Our nation has many differing viewpoints, and our central bank is at its best when it reflects a comprehensive perspective of economic conditions. I thank the witnesses and my fellow colleagues for their time in my home state, and I look forward to continuing this discussion during this critical time.” The witnesses included: Mr. Thomas Hoenig – Distinguished Senior Fellow, Mercatus Center at George Mason University Ms. Ester George – Former President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City Mr. Gary Kelly – Deputy Chair, Board of Directors, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas Mr. Benjamin Keen – Associate Professor of Economics, University of Oklahoma Click here to watch Rep. Lucas’s opening remarks. Click here to watch the Federal Reserve’s impact on agriculture economy in the heartland. Click here to watch the Beige Book’s impact on bringing regional perspectives to the Federal Reserve. ###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-implores-colleagues-to-support-the-emergency-conservation-program-improvement-act,Rep. Lucas Implores Colleagues to Support the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act,2026-07-02,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Yesterday, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) delivered remarks on the House floor supporting landowners facing natural disaster damages by imploring his colleagues to vote in support of the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act. Remarks as prepared for delivery: Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S.629, the Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act, introduced by Senator Fischer of Nebraska. The Emergency Conservation Program and the Emergency Forest Restoration Program are two critical cost-share programs available to landowners following a natural disaster. Given the natural disasters we’ve witnessed, including wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding, these programs have remained critically important. Wildfires continue to present significant challenges, especially in the West, due to their increasing intensity and the extensive number of acres burned each year. Forest managers and wildfire experts have been predicting that 2026 will be a particularly challenging fire year. So far this year, we have already witnessed approximately 2.7 million acres burned in over 34,000 fires, and it is only June. Recently, devastating wildfires have occurred on the plains of Nebraska, Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas, instead of just being confined to the forests and mountains of the West. This year, we saw approximately 300,000 acres burn after multiple wildfires ignited in Oklahoma and Kansas this past February. In addition, due to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, we have observed significant needs for emergency assistance resulting from the devastation in southeastern states, including the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. Natural disasters have inflicted great damage on private property across the country at no fault of the landowners. Under ECP, landowners can receive both technical and financial assistance for repairs and restoration of land adversely affected by natural disasters, including floods, hurricanes, wildfires, and droughts. Additionally, EFRP provides financial assistance to non-industrial private forestland owners to support recovery efforts following similar natural disasters. While these programs are critical, participants have reported ongoing issues with payment delays and insufficient upfront assistance to cover the costs of urgent conservation needs. To address this issue, S.629 allows for advanced payments of up to 75% of the total project cost for both programs, clarifies eligibility for cost-share payments, and allows for a longer period for the use of ECP payments. I support this legislation and encourage my colleagues to vote favorably. ###",1,2026-07-03T08:00:00Z,2026-07-03T08:01:30Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-expand-affordability-our-nations-housing-market,Cole Votes to Expand Affordability in Our Nation’s Housing Market,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2026 | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act: “Thanks to Bidenflation and far-Left overspending, housing costs in this country have soared over the years. At the same time, unnecessary red tape has limited our housing supply, allowing demand to outpace it,” said Congressman Cole. “I voted in favor of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act tonight to address these exact housing crises. This legislation will expand the housing supply of all types of homes, including single-family, multifamily, apartment complexes, and other factory-built housing. Additionally, it will reduce burdensome regulatory barriers to new home construction, modernize HUD programs, and allow banks to deploy funding more freely. At the end of the day, as the Congressman for Oklahomans in the Fourth District, I aim to serve as a representative for homeowners, renters, and my community. In supporting the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act tonight, I did just that, as this bill will lead to more affordable choices for Oklahomans and all Americans.” ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4185,Hern Votes to Fund ICE and CBP,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) today voted in support of the second reconciliation package to fully fund Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Following his vote, Rep. Hern said: “Let’s remember why we had to pass a second reconciliation package. It’s because Congressional Democrats shut down the government, then refused to fund DHS, and have blocked funding for ICE and CBP for the past 115 days. House and Senate Democrats are willing to put our national security at risk to pander to their radical base, leaving it to Republicans alone to fund our border security. President Trump has given us secure borders we cannot afford to return to the Left’s open border policies. I’m proud to vote in support of this critical funding for border security so our Border Patrol and immigration agents have the resources they need to deport illegal immigrants, secure the border, and keep our communities safe.” ###",1,2026-06-12T06:37:16Z,2026-06-12T06:39:00Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bice-supports-reconciliation-bill-fully-fund-dhs,Rep. Bice Supports Reconciliation Bill to Fully Fund DHS,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House passed the Senate’s reconciliation bill which would fully fund Customs and Border Patrol and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through the end of President Trump’s Administration. This legislation heads to the White House to be signed into law. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Under the Biden Administration, more than 10 million illegal immigrants crossed our southern border. This included drug smugglers, human traffickers, criminal organizations, and even terrorists on the FBI watchlist. After walking away on a negotiated appropriations package to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security, Democrats have repeatedly dug their heels in, playing political games with DHS funding. Today’s legislation ensures that those who protect our southern border can not be held hostage again. This legislation was long overdue. Under my friend and fellow Oklahoman, Secretary Mullin, I know the department will continue to ensure our border is closed, ultimately protecting our homeland."" Congresswoman Bice spoke on the floor regarding this legislation and her remarks can be found here. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-ok-04-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners,Cole Announces OK-04 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Oklahoma – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Oklahoma’s Fourth District: Katelyn Estes of Stratford, Oklahoma has been named the first-place winner. Estes attends Stratford High School and studies art under her teacher, Shea Meyer. For the Congressional Art Competition, Estes submitted artwork titled “Spirit of the Plains,” which is a charcoal piece of a bison head. The art will be brought to Washington, D.C. and hang in the United States Capitol Building for an entire year. “I am excited to congratulate Katelyn on being selected as the Fourth District’s overall winner for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition,” said Congressman Cole. “Her bison piece makes it clear just how talented she is. It is truly beautiful and I know Katelyn has a bright future ahead of her.” When asked about her artwork, Estes said, “My inspiration this year was a Bison. This was my first time using charcoal for a drawing. I’m surprised by how much fun I had experimenting with this medium and by how well it turned out for my first time. Our local vet is also a bison ranch, and I think it’s super cool that I live only five miles away from it. The one that I chose to draw was from there. I wanted this drawing to showcase the overlooked beauty of the bison that I, and many other people, drive past every day. My favorite part to draw was definitely the eye; it’s what gives the piece a soul.” ""I am so proud of Katelyn. She has worked so hard and just keeps getting better. She loves creating and her work shows it. She has had a great senior year, and winning this great honor just caps off an outstanding year,"" said Meyer, Stratford High School Art Teacher. In addition to naming Katelyn the winner, two runner-up winners were named through a “People’s Choice” contest online, which was conducted through Congressman Cole’s social media channels. Out of the hundreds of votes cast, artwork by Jessica Gibson and Wren Hobbs received the most. Both students’ artwork will be displayed in Congressman Cole’s Oklahoma office for the next year. “Each year that we hold the Congressional Art Competition, I am so impressed by the many skilled high school students from across the Fourth District. While only one piece can be chosen to make its way to D.C., I think it is important to recognize the other talented students by holding the People’s Choice competition, as so many of the pieces are so beautiful. Therefore, I am thrilled to name Jessica and Wren as this year’s second and third-place winners. I can’t wait to have their art hanging in my office this year,” said Congressman Cole. Jessica Gibson, the second-place winner, resides in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and attends Classen School of Advanced Studies High School at Northeast, where she studies art under her teacher, Amber Crump. For the contest, she submitted a piece titled “Myriad in Bloom,” which is an acrylic painting of downtown Oklahoma City at the myriad botanical gardens. When asked about her inspiration for her artwork, Gibson said, “I decided to paint downtown because it’s not what everyone thinks of when they think of Oklahoma. I wanted to highlight the growing metropolitan side of our state. I especially love the way it looks in spring with all the red buds and flowers blooming underneath our watercolor painted skies. America celebrates its 250th anniversary soon and I think downtown Oklahoma City is a beautiful representation of how far we’ve come in that time.” ""As Ms. Gibson's art teacher at Classen School for Advanced Studies H.S., it is no surprise that she does well competitively. Her dynamic usage of color and her ability to capture her visions for others to see set her apart as an aspiring young artist. She is driven and experimentary in her approach to creation. I am honored to have her in class and can not wait to see how she grows and develops her craft over the next couple of years. Thank you for extending this competition to young artists across your district. Art competitions such as this one help to keep arts & art programs valid in public schools.,” said Crump, Classen School for Advanced Studies Art Teacher. Wren Hobbs of Norman, Oklahoma is the third-place winner. She attends Norman North High School, where she studies art under her teacher, Sheila Hunter. For the Congressional Art Competition, Hobbs submitted artwork titled “Still Home,” which is a pencil drawing of the endangered piping plover on a beach surrounded by trash. “My piece is inspired by my passion for avian conservation and the importance of protecting bird populations. It is one of the pieces from my AP art portfolio,” said Hobbs. "" It’s rare to have a student not only dedicated to their craft, but also to a cause. I’ve been lucky enough to know Wren all four of her years in high school, and during that time I’ve seen her grow as an artist and an advocate for animal conservation. She’s been an active participant in showing her art in contests/shows, and in leading our school’s environmental club. When you look at the line work in her drawings, you can see the attention to detail with her carefully curated colors - but also the accuracy of the animals and their environments. She takes the time to learn their history and struggles and uses her art to teach others. I’m so proud of what she’s achieved as not only an artist, but an educator in animal rights,” said Hunter, Norman North High School Art Teacher. Background on the Congressional Art Competition: Each spring, the Congressional Art Institute sponsors a nationwide competition for high school students with an interest in art and looking for an opportunity to showcase their creativity and talent. This year, the first-place winner will receive a trip to Washington, D.C., including two Southwest Airlines tickets, to attend the awards ceremony. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-chickasaw-nation-governor-anoatubby-retirement,Cole Statement on Chickasaw Nation Governor Anoatubby Retirement,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement in response to Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby’s retirement announcement: “For 39 years, Governor Bill Anoatubby has led my tribe, the Chickasaw Nation, with remarkable vision, a strategic hand, and unwavering dedication. His leadership has transformed not only the trajectory of the Nation, but the lives of the Chickasaw people. “Economically, his tenure has been nothing short of historic and unprecedented. Through Governor Anoatubby’s steady leadership, the Chickasaw Nation did more than just achieve its goals of economic development and self-sufficiency – it surpassed them. Under his guidance, the tribe evolved from dependence on federal funding to one that is self-sufficient and prosperous on its own. Today, thanks to him, the Chickasaw Nation supports more than 22,000 jobs and contributes $3.7 billion annually to Oklahoma’s economy, including $1.2 billion in wages and benefits. “However, Governor Anoatubby’s impact cannot be measured by just economics. Throughout his lengthy tenure, he also placed a significant emphasis on preserving and sharing the precious heritage of the Chickasaw Nation. Through initiatives such as the Chickasaw Nation Division of Arts and Humanities and the Chickasaw Cultural Center, he ensured that our history, language, arts, and culture would continue to inspire future generations. “These achievements, on top of many others, make it unmistakably clear: Governor Bill Anoatubby is the most consequential Chickasaw Nation leader since the removal period. And his influence has extended past just the Chickasaw Nation. His leadership and impact are respected by every Oklahoman. “For nearly four decades, Governor Anoatubby has embodied true commitment to the Chickasaw people and Oklahoma. The powerful combination of his leadership, vision, and generosity has allowed all of us in our state to shape a brighter future for ourselves and all those touched by the results of his leadership. On a personal level, I am fortunate to call Governor Anoatubby a mentor and a trusted friend. “His retirement is an enormous loss for the Chickasaw Nation, all Indian Country, and the state of Oklahoma. However, he leaves the tribe stronger than he found it, as he hands it off to his very competent and bright son, Chris, the Lieutenant Governor. I have no doubt Chris will carry on his father’s legacy with wisdom, competence, and care, and I look forward to seeing everything the future holds for the Chickasaw Nation. “In conclusion, to Governor Anoatubby, congratulations on a truly remarkable career and a lifetime of service. Thank you for your leadership, your vision, your friendship, and the legacy you leave behind. I wish you, Janice, and your entire family the best as you enter this next chapter,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-secure-america-act,Cole Statement on the Secure America Act,2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after supporting the Secure America Act, which delivers long-term funding for ICE and Border Patrol personnel, immigration enforcement operations, and other critical homeland security priorities after repeated efforts by Senate Democrats to obstruct funding, trigger government shutdowns, and derail the regular appropriations process: “Terrorists. Cartels. Human traffickers. Drug smugglers. Each day, ICE and Border Patrol agents and officers confront these threats head-on to keep America safe. It’s exactly why I have consistently voted to comprehensively resource these law enforcement professionals as they carry out their security missions. While the far-left hoped to eradicate funding for critical operations and weaken our border security apparatus, House Republicans have made clear that we will continue to support those who defend our homeland and keep our communities safe. “I do not regret the objective of our actions today, but I am appalled by the complete failure of Senate Democrats that led us to this moment. Chuck Schumer and his radical caucus twice shut down the government, instigating chaos across the nation. Since then, they have continued to diminish Article I and forced the use of reconciliation. It’s wrong – and deliberately undermines the appropriations process. “The Constitution entrusts Congress with the power of the purse. Yet, in great irony, the Senate has shown greater concern for protecting an internal rule than fulfilling its constitutional duty. The filibuster is nothing more than an institutional habit. It is neither mentioned nor sanctioned in our founding documents. I would remind my peers on the other side of the Rotunda that no chamber precedent is greater than the bedrock of our Republic. Members swear an oath to uphold the Constitution – not the filibuster. “I thoroughly regret the erosion of Article I authority that Senate Democrats have instigated, and the price everyday Americans have been forced to pay as a result. I hope the months-long charade that led us to this moment serves as a reminder that no partisan fixation is worth shutting down the government, abandoning constitutional responsibilities, and forcing Congress into extraordinary measures simply to perform its most basic duties. “I believe in the Constitution, the power of the purse, and completing the appropriations process. I also believe in keeping the homeland safe. The Senate may have abandoned proper governing, but I will not abandon those who stand watch over our borders and protect our communities. “Our work, of course, doesn’t end here. As the Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations markups near completion, I am reminded that governing is a choice. The work I do, the votes I cast, and the actions I take will always be guided by one principle: fulfilling our obligations to the American people,” said Congressman Cole. Background: Funding the government is a constitutional imperative. Senate Democrats initiated both the longest full and partial government shutdowns in U.S. history. The House and Senate previously struck a bipartisan and bicameral deal to finalize all Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills. The House acted expeditiously to pass these bills, marking historic progress for our appropriations process and progress to return to ‘regular order.’ After helping negotiate the deal, Senate Democrats altered it at the last minute, undermining DHS funding. Shutting down DHS didn’t achieve immigration results or zero out resources for U.S. Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement as Democrats hoped. In fact, the very reforms Democrats originally helped secure in the Fiscal Year 2026 bill, which included requiring the use of body-worn cameras, placing restrictions on immigration enforcement at sensitive locations like hospitals and schools, increasing congressional oversight, and requiring agents to wear visible officer identification while carrying out immigration enforcement activities, were lost since they rejected the bill. Congressman Cole has consistently made it clear that government shutdowns are reckless and harmful. Due to the inability of Senate Democrats to uphold their full FY26 negotiated commitments, Congress was forced to pursue reconciliation to fully fund critical homeland security operations. The Secure America Act will provide long-term funding for ICE and Border Patrol and border security enforcement operations through Fiscal Year 2029. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-suozzi-introduce-bipartisan-social-security-commission-act,"Cole, Suozzi Introduce Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act",2026-06-09,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – This week, Representative Tom Cole (OK-04) and Representative Tom Suozzi (NY-03) introduced the Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act, which Rep. Cole has led or co-led for seven Congresses now. This legislation addresses the long-term solvency of Social Security by creating a bipartisan, independent commission made up of thirteen members appointed by the President and Congressional leaders in both parties. The Social Security and Medicare Boards of Trustees are expected to release their 2026 Annual Report shortly. That report will project the year during which Social Security’s trust funds will be exhausted and the extent of the automatic, across-the-board benefit cut that would follow. Reps. Cole and Suozzi’s bill would combat this looming issue and ensure that Social Security is fully funded for decades to come. After introducing the legislation, Reps. Cole and Suozzi released the following statements: “I am going to tell you the truth that many of my fellow politicians in Washington refuse to acknowledge: the solvency of Social Security is at a critical point, and millions of Americans who have paid into this program throughout their working lives may not receive the money they deserve. Therefore, doing nothing on Social Security is not an option,” said Rep. Cole. “As a Congress, we must act. The Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act will allow us to find commonsense solutions to ensure the long-term survival of this program. I am proud to join Representative Suozzi in the reintroduction of this important legislation, as Social Security is a promise we have made to American seniors that we must keep.” “Social Security is a promise we make to our seniors, and we cannot afford to wait until the program reaches insolvency to act. Everyone knows Social Security faces serious long-term challenges, but too often Washington chooses to ignore them,” said Rep. Suozzi. “We owe it to current and future retirees to set partisan politics aside and develop responsible solutions that protect and strengthen the program. This bipartisan commission would be required to produce a proposal to address social security insolvency within one year. It is an important and urgent step toward getting the job done.” Background: Modeled after the 1983 Social Security Commission, H.R. 9187 would create a bicameral and bipartisan commission entrusted with the task of saving Social Security. Specifically, the legislation would provide for the following: 13-member commission, the Commission on Long Term Social Security Solvency, with 8 members appointed by leadership from both parties in the House and Senate (two appointees from each party's leader in each chamber). The remaining 4 members of the commission will be appointed by the Chair and Ranking Member of the House and Senate committees with jurisdiction over Social Security. These are the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Senate Finance Committee. Two of the congressional appointees must be non-elected experts. The commission is chaired by the thirteenth appointee, named by the President. The President’s appointee means that the President’s party would appoint seven members, the other party appointing six. Within one year of the first meeting, the commission must report to Congress on the 75-year health of Social Security and provide recommendations for how to improve the program. The commission’s report must have a minimum of nine votes, guaranteeing a bipartisan consensus. The legislation based on the commission’s plan would then receive expedited consideration in Congress for an up and down vote. Pubic Support: This legislation has received praise from experts at many organizations including the Bipartisan Policy Action Center, the Peterson Solutions Fund, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Concord Action, the American Action Forum, the American Enterprise Institute, Third Way, and the Progressive Policy Institute. These experts released the following statements in support of the Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act: “America’s current and future retirees deserve a Social Security system that is financially strong, stable, and protected from automatic benefit cuts. With the program’s main trust fund projected to become insolvent in just six years, Congress cannot afford continued inaction. BPC Action commends Reps. Tom Cole (R-OK) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) for recognizing that meaningful Social Security reform will require bipartisan leadership and compromise. Their Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act offers a credible path forward by bringing together lawmakers and experts to strengthen the program and help secure Americans’ earned benefits for decades to come,” said Michele Stockwell, President of Bipartisan Policy Center Action. “With automatic cuts to Social Security looming in just a few years, now is the time to act. Peterson Solutions Fund applauds Representatives Cole and Suozzi for the introduction of the Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act of 2026. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation would establish a dedicated, formal process for lawmakers to consider the wide range of solutions available to shore up Social Security’s finances and ensure the program remains strong for future generations,” said Brett Loper, Executive Director of the Peterson Solutions Fund. “I applaud Reps. Cole and Suozzi for reintroducing the Social Security Commission Act. With Social Security reaching insolvency in just a few short years, and a 24% cut in benefits looming because of inaction, time is running out to address a critical program relied upon by 70 million of Americans. A commission would be the first step in creating lasting bipartisan solutions,” said Maya MacGuineas, President of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. ""Kudos to Congressmen Cole and Suozzi for taking the lead on saving Social Security benefits and promoting fiscal responsibility. Social Security is currently careening toward insolvency, which would result in benefit cuts for millions of Americans. The Bipartisan Social Security Commission Act is an important first step to getting us back on track and protecting retirement security while not compromising the long-term economic health of the nation,” said Carolyn Bourdeaux, Executive Director of Concord Action. “Commissions are often derided as an act of delay. The Commission on Long-term Social Security Solvency is a call for action. And action is needed urgently. Social Security is an essential component of the U.S. safety net and is faced with major, imminent financial troubles. Congress should act on the Commission’s plan, but needs to act now to create the commission,” said Douglas Holtz-Eakin, President of American Action Forum. ""The Commission on Long-Term Social Security Solvency provides a desperately-needed framework for developing reforms that can strengthen retirement security while improving the nation's fiscal outlook. The Commission's bipartisan composition and supermajority voting requirement ensure that Democrats and Republicans must at last work together to find common ground on Social Security reform,” said Andrew Biggs, Senior Fellow of the American Enterprise Institute. “The math is clear: Social Security faces serious financial challenges in the years ahead. Saving this essential program will require bipartisan cooperation, and a Social Security commission offers the best path to a thoughtful, durable solution. We applaud Representatives Tom Cole (R-OK) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY) for advancing this important step to strengthen Social Security and protect it for current retirees and future generations,” said Zach Moller, Senior Director of the Economic Program at Third Way. ""For the first time in a generation, Social Security's trustees project the program's primary trust fund will be depleted during the next presidential administration. The next president, and all U.S. senators elected this November, must act before the end of their term to preserve retirement security for seniors without imposing an undue debt or tax burden on working Americans. PPI commends Reps. Suozzi and Cole for proposing one possible mechanism for deliberating and fast-tracking bipartisan solutions that are long overdue,” said Ben Ritz, Vice President of Policy Development at the Progressive Policy Institute. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/rep-lucas-supports-usdas-response-efforts-to-combat-new-world-screwworm,Rep. Lucas Supports USDA’s Response Efforts to Combat New World Screwworm,2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"A confirmed case of new world screwworm arrived in South Texas this week Washington, DC – Yesterday, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03) at a hearing supported Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and her efforts to combat new world screwworm. Lucas emphasized the importance of resource allocation to fund new facilities and increase production in current facilities. Partial Transcript: “Secretary, I’d like to discuss also the new world screwworm for a moment, Lucas said. “And first, I want to thank you, Secretary Rollins, for your being extremely transparent and quick in response to the situation in Texas yesterday.” “You, obviously, and the department are taking this very, very seriously, correct?” Lucas asked. “That’s correct,” said Secretary Rollins. “You’re working very hard, creating more facilities, increasing the production at existing facilities,” Lucas said. “This will never go completely away. We just have to be vigilant and prepared,” Lucas concluded. ###",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-support-americas-farmers-ranchers-and-agriculture-industry,"Cole Votes to Support America’s Farmers, Ranchers, and Agriculture Industry",2026-06-05,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R. 8646, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2027. This legislation funds the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Commodity Future Trading Commission. After voting in favor of the legislation, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “As the representative for over 13,000 farms and ranches in Oklahoma’s Fourth District alone, I know this to be true: when American agriculture is strong, America is strong. Today’s Agriculture funding bill recognizes that simple truth,” said Congressman Cole. “This legislation supports our farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. It invests in research to keep our nation’s agriculture industry competitive and in food safety through important inspection resources and protecting American agriculture from foreign pests and diseases. The bill reinforces America First principles by advancing ‘MAHA’ priorities and ending Biden-era regulations and Climate Corps funding. It strengthens rural communities, so many of which I represent in Oklahoma, by prioritizing funding for home ownership loans, broadband investments, and infrastructure development. On top of that, the bill tightens oversight of foreign purchases of agricultural land, reinforcing critical national security priorities,” said Congressman Cole. “From the farm to the dinner table, the FY-27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act puts the American people first and I am proud to have voted in favor of it today,” said Congressman Cole. Key Provisions Secured for Oklahoma in the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2027 $35 million for the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Operations Program, which will help support the over 2,100 watersheds in Oklahoma and enhance their flood control efforts. $10 million of these dollars are specifically for states, like Oklahoma, specializing in corrugated metal pipe projects. $3 million for the Watershed Rehabilitation Program. $50 million loan authorization level for the Rural Energy for America Program. 20% of this is allocated for distributed wind investments, supporting small wind operations in Oklahoma. $271 million, which is a $36 million increase over the enacted number, for the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations. Oklahoma has the highest participation in this program out of any state, so this increased funding will help the over 20,000 tribal citizens in the state have access to food assistance. Over $1.5 billion for the National Institute of Food and Agriculture to conduct research, education, and extension activities which support our nation’s land-grant universities like Oklahoma State University, Langston University, and the College of Muscogee Creek, execute agricultural innovation and advancements. $435 million for the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative. $3 million for research developments focusing on Oklahoma initiatives such as wheat breeding, wildfire prevention, barley resiliency, and biosecurity. $24 million for the Circuit Rider Program, which helps support the over 3,000 technical assistance visits that Oklahoma Rural Water Association circuit riders carry out each year. $481.5 million for the Emergency Food Assistance Program. $14 million for the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment and Services Grant Program, which will help the over 60 counties in Oklahoma experiencing veterinarian shortages. $115.5 million for Cattle Health with $10 million specifically for the New World Screwworm initiative and an increase of $700,000 for Asian Longhorned Tick outreach and education efforts. $410.8 million increase for food safety state inspections to ensure states, like Oklahoma, are receiving proper reimbursements for meat and poultry inspection programs. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-bice-applauds-committee-passage-fiscal-year-2027-transportation-housing,"Rep. Bice Applauds Committee Passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act",2026-06-04,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"June 4, 2026 Washington, D.C. – The Fiscal Year 2027 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Act recently passed the House Appropriations Committee. Congresswoman Bice, the Vice Chair of the subcommittee, issued the following statement: “This year’s THUD bill strengthens transportation safety on our railroads, highways, and in our skies. It modernizes our nation’s air traffic control system by funding the hiring of 2,300 new air traffic controllers and replacing outdated telecommunications infrastructure to improve safety and reliability. The bill also invests more than $6.3 billion in highways, railways, and airports to support our growing transportation needs. I applaud Chairman Tom Cole and Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack for their leadership and commitment to advancing the appropriations process in a timely manner.” Key wins for Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District: $8 million to replace the aging and outdated ATC tower at Wiley Post. $10.2 million across five transportation projects to improve high risk traffic patterns or aging infrastructure. $10 million for the development of a multipurpose community center in Choctaw. $1 million for University of Central Oklahoma to continue upgrading their forensic science facilities that assist in processing backlogged Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women cases and to improve and expand their current facilities. Funding for OKC ahead of the Olympics in 2028. The legislation also: Invests in transportation safety and rebuilds America by: Providing $22.7 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to hire 2,300 new air traffic controllers and replace dated telecommunication infrastructure. Rebuilding America with more than $6.3 billion in new budget authority for highways, rail, airports, and maritime infrastructure. Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by: Funding the U.S. Merchant Marines, state Maritime Academies, shipyards, and the strategic sealift programs—including the Cable Security Fleet, Maritime Security Program, and Tanker Security Program. Supporting America’s vehicle and aircraft manufacturers to ensure global leadership and to counter China’s malign influence. Maintaining “Buy American” provisions that maximize the federal government’s use of services, goods, products, and materials produced and offered in the United States. Providing $92 million for new Department of Transportation (DOT) cybersecurity infrastructure initiatives. Cracks down on cargo theft that results in increased prices. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-2026-military-academy-appointees,Cole Announces 2026 Military Academy Appointees,2026-06-03,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Oklahoma – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the names of the 2026 Military Academy appointees from Oklahoma’s Fourth District who received and accepted appointments for entry into one of our nation’s prestigious military academies. These academies include the United States Air Force Academy, the United States Merchant Marine Academy, and the United States Naval Academy. Congressman Cole, along with the help of his staff, selected these appointees by hand and met with them last week. After meeting with the appointees, Congressman Cole said, “Those who answer the call to serve are our nation’s finest – and that includes these eight young Oklahomans. I am so proud of these men and women for their choice to attend a challenging yet rewarding military academy. They really are some of the best and brightest and I have no doubt that they will go on to do amazing things serving our country as part of the Armed Forces.” The list below includes the names and high school information of the appointees, as well as the academies to which they have been appointed. United States Air Force Academy Brandon Heckethorn – Lone Grove High School Tessa Inman – Lindsay High School Simon Marchesano – Moore High School (Also was offered the U.S. Naval Academy) Gregory Williams – Norman North High School United States Merchant Marine Academy Joseph McCormick – McCormick Home School United States Naval Academy Julianna Chesnut – Rush Springs High School (Also was offered U.S. Military Academy at West Point) Gracie Ragland – Byng High School Ezekiel Stoda – Blanchard High School (Also was offered U.S. Military Academy at West Point)",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/reps-lucas-cole-bice-join-faa-administrator-bedford-in-tour-of-mike-monroney-aeronautical-center,"Reps. Lucas, Cole, Bice Join FAA Administrator Bedford in Tour of Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center",2026-06-02,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Oklahoma City, OK – Today, Representative Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), along with Representatives Tom Cole (OK-04) and Stephanie Bice (OK-05), joined Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford in touring the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center’s Air Traffic Control Training Academy. The tour provided an overview of controller training programs and the technologies used to prepare the aviation workforce. The tour included visits to the Tower Simulator System Lab and the En Route Automation Modernization Lab. “It was a great day in Oklahoma City with Administrator Bedford as we toured the impressive Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Representative Lucas. “The innovative technology that we saw today has, and will continue to, completely change the training curriculum for future aviation experts. This will bring our nation’s opportunities in aviation to new heights, and it will also enable our workforce to be equipped with more skills and services that will only further advance their careers. I’m optimistic about the future of aviation, and I’m proud that this innovation is occurring here in Oklahoma’s third congressional district.” “I’m grateful to the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including Chairman Tom Cole, Representative Frank Lucas, Vice Chair Stephanie Bice as well as Senators Lankford and Armstrong for their strong leadership here in Oklahoma,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “This center is one of the crown jewels of research and development, and sustainment for the national airspace system. It all happens here. Training new air traffic controllers, technicians, and first and second level engineers. We had the most successful recruiting day in the history of the FAA for our air traffic controllers, we’ve shortened the hiring process and we are getting trainees into the Academy faster than ever.” “Thanks to the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Oklahoma has long been a hub for aerospace and aviation industry development,” said Representative Cole. “The Center is not only a key administrative, research, and safety hub for the FAA, but it is also home to the FAA Academy, which is the only training center in the country for FAA-certified air traffic controllers. Therefore, it is no exaggeration to say that America’s national aviation industry cannot exist without the workforce the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center produces – and that was made very clear through the advanced technology and new curriculum we saw on the tour today. I would like to thank FAA Administrator Bedford for taking the time to come out to Oklahoma, as it is critical for the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center to continue to thrive.” “It was great to be alongside Administrator Bedford at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Representative Bice. “On his visit, the first by an FAA Administrator in a decade, we witnessed the incredible work happening daily in Oklahoma City. I was proud to see new innovative technologies, funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which are helping to prepare future air traffic controllers and the next generation of professionals. Their mission is critical and the Oklahoma delegation is laser focused on providing the support they need.” ###",1,2026-06-03T06:40:39Z,2026-06-03T06:42:22Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-conducts-hearing-secretary-transportation-sean-duffy,Cole Conducts Hearing with Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy,2026-05-22,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) and Subcommittee Chairman Steve Womack (AK-03) led a House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agents Subcommittee budget hearing, where they collected testimony from Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget for the agency. Congressman Cole utilized some of his time with the Secretary to advocate for the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City, which is home to the only training center in the country for FAA-certified air traffic controllers. After the hearing, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “Oklahoma has long been a hub for aerospace and aviation industry development. The Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center is not only a key administrative, research, and safety hub for the FAA, but it is also home to the FAA Academy – and Secretary Duffy is more than aware of this. His support for the Center, as well as determination to supercharge controller hiring, has made a real difference and reflects a general understanding of what this facility means to the safety of our entire aviation system,” said Congressman Cole “We have the land, the facilities, and a world-class staff in Oklahoma City to ensure that air traffic controllers receive in-person, focused, state-of-art training. Therefore, I personally will continue to fight for the funding this center needs to modernize and expand, while at the same time push back on any effort to decentralize or weaken what we have built at the Center,” said Congressman Cole. “I’d like to thank Secretary Duffy for the attention he has given to Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, for attending this House Appropriations subcommittee hearing today, and for his leadership and commitment to our nation’s transportation sector. I look forward to continuing to work with him in the future,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-fiscal-year-2027-military-construction-veterans-affairs-and,"Bice Supports Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act",2026-05-15,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the House passed the bipartisan Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The legislation provides $469.49 billion in total funding, supporting key investments in military infrastructure that strengthen readiness and support military families. The bill also continues investments in the Indo-Pacific region and fully funds veterans’ benefits and healthcare programs. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “As a member of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Subcommittee, I was proud to support this bipartisan legislation. Our brave service members and veterans deserve access to the care, benefits, and resources they have earned through their service to our nation. This bill also invests in key military infrastructure, housing, and childcare, which will support the families of those who protect and defend our nation. Importantly, it also continues to invest in resources to counter the threats we face from China. I appreciate Chairman Cole’s tireless work in getting the first FY27 appropriations bill to the House floor."" Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-support-military-families-and-fully-fund-veterans-care,Cole Votes to Support Military Families and Fully Fund Veterans Care,2026-05-15,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act: “The strength of the United States has always rested on people willing to serve greater than themselves. The bill we passed today reflects that foundation – fully funding veteran care and benefits, prioritizing mental health and suicide prevention programs, and directing facility modernization. It reinforces base posture by investing in military construction, improving barracks, and ensuring our installations are equipped to uphold readiness. And we support those who shoulder the sacrifices of military service through housing, childcare, and quality-of-life priorities that sustain the families behind the frontlines. The FY27 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs bill delivers meaningful resources that reinforce America’s strength from the ground up. As the first appropriations measure to pass the House, this legislation reaffirms a funding process grounded in responsibility, readiness, and results,” said Congressman Cole. “The Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act delivers on a promise to our heroes – past and present – and ensures they are supported with more than gratitude alone.” Key Provisions in the FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Champions our veterans by fully funding their health care programs and benefits. Invests over $2 billion in capital improvements for VA Medical Facilities and four national cemeteries. Protects the Second Amendment rights of veterans, preventing the VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent. Supports the Trump Administration’s efforts in improving mental health and suicide prevention among veterans. Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by providing robust funding for military construction, enabling continued investment in the Indo-Pacific region and infrastructure necessary to support American advanced weapon systems. Provision Congressman Cole Secured for Oklahoma in the FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act $55 million for construction of an E-7 Operations Facility at Tinker Air Force Base supporting the personnel, equipment, and aircraft essential to modernizing the Air Force’s airborne warning and control mission. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-and-kaptur-introduce-training-rural-law-enforcement-officers-act-2026,Bice and Kaptur Introduce the Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026,2026-05-14,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05) and Representative Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) introduced the Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026. The bipartisan legislation would authorize the Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide grant funding to accredited nonprofit organizations to deliver law enforcement training at no cost to rural and smaller police departments with fewer than 50 sworn officers. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I was proud to lead this legislation to help ensure small and rural law enforcement departments have access to the high-quality training and resources they need to safely and effectively serve their communities. Far too often, smaller departments face limited resources and fewer opportunities for specialized training, and this bill helps ensure officers in every community have access to the tools they need.” “Honored to lead this bipartisan legislation alongside my House Appropriations colleague Stephanie Bice. As we mark Police Week, we also take into account that many small and rural police departments often struggle to get the training and resources they need to protect and serve their communities. This is why extending funding opportunities to trusted nonprofits who help train and support our rural law enforcement is crucial to ensure that federal funds make it to these smaller agencies,""said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). ""Far too often, smaller departments get fewer opportunities for specialized training, and our bill ensures that every community big or small will have access to the same 21st century tools, and technology they need to do their jobs effectively.” Thor Eells Executive Director of National Tactical Officers Association, issued the following statement: “Far too often the brave men and women of our nation's law enforcement community, especially those from smaller and rural departments, lack the necessary training to effectively and safely resolve incidents they routinely face in the course of their duties. There is an important need for the federal government to allow for law enforcement officers from small and rural departments to receive proper training for such incidents, both routine and often unfamiliar. “The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026” will help ensure that law enforcement personnel from smaller and rural departments will have access to the training so vitally important to helping ensure both a proper and effective response to critical incidents and as a result preserving law enforcement and civilian life and security alike. On behalf of the over 40,000 members of the National Tactical Officers Association, I strongly commend Rep. Bice and Rep. Kaptur for bringing this important legislation forward.” Mike Brown, Executive Director of Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executive’s Association, issued the following statement: “On behalf of the Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executive’s Association, I thank Rep. Bice and Rep. Kaptur for bringing this important legislation forward. “The Training Rural Law Enforcement Officers Act of 2026” will significantly increase the access to critical training for smaller and rural law enforcement departments and agencies nationwide at no additional cost to the taxpayer. By expanding DOJ grant eligibility to validated non-profit organizations to provide vital training to smaller and rural law enforcement agencies, it will ensure that needed training will be received by law enforcement officials nationwide irrespective of their department’s size or resources. This increased training will assist agencies and their respective communities to respond effectively, efficiently, and compassionately to the public they serve.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-bice-lucas-cole-join-faa-administrator-bedford-tour-mike-monroney,"Reps. Bice, Lucas, Cole, Join FAA Administrator Bedford in Tour of Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center",2026-05-07,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Oklahoma City, OK – Today, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05), along with Representatives Frank D. Lucas (OK-03), and Tom Cole (OK-04), joined Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Bryan Bedford in touring the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center’s Air Traffic Control Training Academy. The tour, which included visits to the Tower Simulator System Lab and the En Route Automation Modernization Lab, provided an overview of controller training programs and technologies used to prepare the aviation workforce. Throughout their time in Congress, Representatives Bice, Cole, and Lucas, have been able to secure federal dollars for the Center. This year, through Fiscal Year 2026 funding, the Representatives fought for and secured $152 million dollars to ensure the facilities at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center remain the gold standard for all operations occurring at the Center, as well as for air traffic controller recruitment, training, and equipment to ensure the next generation of air traffic controllers have the tools they need to learn how to safely conduct air traffic within the national airspace system. After the tour, the Representatives and Administrator Bedford released the following statements: Congresswoman Bice said, “It was great to be alongside Administrator Bedford at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. On his visit, the first by an FAA Administrator in a decade, we witnessed the incredible work happening daily in Oklahoma City. I was proud to see new innovative technologies, funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which are helping to prepare future air traffic controllers and the next generation of professionals. Their mission is critical and the Oklahoma delegation is laser focused on providing the support they need.” “I’m grateful to the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including Chairman Tom Cole, Representative Frank Lucas, Vice Chair Stephanie Bice as well as Senators Lankford and Armstrong for their strong leadership here in Oklahoma. This center is one of the crown jewels of research and development, and sustainment for the national airspace system,”said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford.“It all happens here. Training new air traffic controllers, technicians, and first and second level engineers. We had the most successful recruiting day in the history of the FAA for our air traffic controllers, we’ve shortened the hiring process and we are getting trainees into the Academy faster than ever.” “It was a great day in Oklahoma City with Administrator Bedford as we toured the impressive Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Congressman Lucas. “The innovative technology that we saw today has, and will continue to, completely change the training curriculum for future aviation experts. This will bring our nation’s opportunities in aviation to new heights, and it will also enable our workforce to be equipped with more skills and services that will only further advance their careers. I’m optimistic about the future of aviation, and I’m proud that this innovation is occurring here in Oklahoma’s third congressional district.”",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-lucas-bice-join-faa-administrator-bedford-tour-mike-monroney-aeronautical,"Cole, Lucas, Bice Join FAA Administrator Bedford in Tour of Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center",2026-05-07,2026,2026-05,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Oklahoma City, OK – Today, Representative Tom Cole (OK-04), along with Representatives Frank Lucas (OK-03) and Stephanie Bice (OK-05), joined Federal Aviation Administrator (FAA) Bryan Bedford in touring the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center’s Air Traffic Control Training Academy. The tour, which included visits to the Tower Simulator System Lab and the En Route Automation Modernization Lab, provided an overview of controller training programs and technologies used to prepare the aviation workforce. Throughout their time in Congress, Representatives Cole, Lucas, and Bice have been able to secure federal dollars for the Center. This year, through Fiscal Year 2026 funding, the Representatives fought for and secured $152 million dollars to ensure the facilities at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center remain the gold standard for all operations occurring at the Center, as well as for air traffic controller recruitment, training, and equipment to ensure the next generation of air traffic controllers have the tools they need to learn how to safely conduct air traffic within the national airspace system. After the tour, the Representatives and Administrator Bedford released the following statements: “Thanks to the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Oklahoma has long been a hub for aerospace and aviation industry development. The Center is not only a key administrative, research, and safety hub for the FAA, but it is also home to the FAA Academy, which is the only training center in the country for FAA-certified air traffic controllers. Therefore, it is no exaggeration to say that America’s national aviation industry cannot exist without the workforce the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center produces – and that was made very clear through the advanced technology and new curriculum we saw on the tour today,” said Congressman Cole. “I would like to thank FAA Administrator Bedford for taking the time to come out to Oklahoma, as it is critical for the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center to continue to thrive.” “I’m grateful to the Oklahoma congressional delegation, including Chairman Tom Cole, Representative Frank Lucas, Vice Chair Stephanie Bice as well as Senators Lankford and Armstrong for their strong leadership here in Oklahoma. This center is one of the crown jewels of research and development, and sustainment for the national airspace system,” said FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford. “It all happens here. Training new air traffic controllers, technicians, and first and second level engineers. We had the most successful recruiting day in the history of the FAA for our air traffic controllers, we’ve shortened the hiring process and we are getting trainees into the Academy faster than ever.” “It was a great day in Oklahoma City with Administrator Bedford as we toured the impressive Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center,” said Congressman Lucas. “The innovative technology that we saw today has, and will continue to, completely change the training curriculum for future aviation experts. This will bring our nation’s opportunities in aviation to new heights, and it will also enable our workforce to be equipped with more skills and services that will only further advance their careers. I’m optimistic about the future of aviation, and I’m proud that this innovation is occurring here in Oklahoma’s third congressional district.” “It was great to be alongside Administrator Bedford at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. On his visit, the first by an FAA Administrator in a decade, we witnessed the incredible work happening daily in Oklahoma City. I was proud to see new innovate technologies, funded through the One Big Beautiful Bill, which are helping to prepare future air traffic controllers and the next generation of professionals. Their mission is critical and the Oklahoma delegation is laser focused on providing the support they need,” said Congresswoman Bice. ###",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:21:02Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-farm-food-and-national-security-act-2026,"Cole Votes in Favor of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026",2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, which reauthorizes, modernizes, and improves key Department of Agriculture programs through 2031: “Agriculture is truly the heart of America – and as a lifelong Oklahoman, I know this firsthand. In fact, Oklahoma ranks first in the nation in the production of rye, third in the nation in the production of wheat, fifth in the production of cattle, pecans and grain sorghum, tenth in peanuts, and twelfth in watermelon. It is clear: Oklahoma’s farmers, ranchers, producers, and growers are essential to not only our state, but to our entire country,” said Congressman Cole. “In return, as the representative for over 13,000 farms and ranches in the Fourth District alone, I will always fight to ensure they are not neglected in Congress. Today, in passing the Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2026, we did just that,” said Congressman Cole. “This legislation focuses on practical policy for farm country. It will help to keep family farms in business, competition thriving, and grocery shelves stocked. This bill maintains America’s position as a global agriculture leader – because food security is national security. It provides farmers with the protection and stability they need to maintain healthy crops and produce, as well as streamlines working lands conservation programs and prioritizes responsible management of federal forests. Furthermore, it enacts these commonsense policies all while remaining budget neutral and prioritizing integrity and transparency,” said Congressman Cole. “The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 was must-pass legislation, and I am proud to have helped push it across the finish line with my vote today. I also want to thank my good friend, fellow Oklahoman, and former Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, Congressman Frank Lucas, for all he did to secure these important provisions vital to Oklahoma. We must always ensure that those who put food on our tables and fuel the American people are not left behind,” said Congressman Cole. Wins for Oklahoma in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 Protects and enhances conservation programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program, supporting Oklahoma’s 84 conservation districts. Updates essential watershed programs that so many Oklahomans rely on to maintain and improve the over 2,100 watershed flood control dams in Oklahoma. Increases funding for the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development Program so that our producers can more easily tap into trade expansion. Authorizes state and tribal led local food purchasing programs to increase the purchase of local foods, growing local economies. Reauthorizes critical rural development programs that invest in economic development, job creation, technical assistance, and utility services. Reauthorizes vital water infrastructure programs such as the Rural Water and Wastewater Circuit Rider Program. This program supports the over 3,000 technical assistance visits that Oklahoma Rural Water Association circuit riders carry out each year. Incorporates middle mile infrastructure into the ReConnect Rural Broadband Program, improving access to rural areas and lowering costs for users and providers. Reauthorizes important research, extension, and education activities that our land-grant universities, such as Oklahoma State University, Langston University, and College of the Muscogee Nation, rely on to produce innovative and cutting-edge research. Increases loan guarantee to $50 million for the Rural Energy for America Program and ensures that projects using underutilized renewable energy technologies, such as distributed wind projects, are highlighted. ###",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4172,Hern Backs Farm Bill,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after voting in support of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act, also known as the Farm Bill: “Our farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers work incredibly hard, and they deserve certainty as they keep food on our tables and drive our economy. The Farm Bill delivers real wins for the Oklahoma agricultural industry, ensuring they have the necessary tools to provide for our communities and the stability to plan for the current and future demands at home and abroad. I’m proud to support this critical legislation and the hardworking men and women who keep America running.”",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-ending-democrat-led-department-homeland-security-shutdown,Cole Statement on Ending the Democrat-Led Department of Homeland Security Shutdown,2026-04-30,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 7147, which will now head to President Trump’s desk to end the Democrat-led Department of Homeland Security shutdown: “Backed by President Trump, this funding bill ends the Democrat DHS shutdown. It fully restores funding, stability, and pay for the majority of critical operations including TSA, FEMA, Secret Service, Coast Guard, and CISA – and it does so without any policy restrictions at the center of Chuck Schumer and Senate Democrats’ radical agenda. “While the far-left hoped to eradicate U.S. Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement resources, complete funding for those agencies is advancing concurrently. This two-pronged approach restores DHS immediately and makes it clear: enforcement will not be stripped. “Having Democrats diminish Article I and force the use of reconciliation was not my preferred path. Yet, this is the reality before us. My support of today’s action is for all the frontline personnel who would have – once again – been subjected to missed paychecks starting this weekend. I’d rather carry the weight of an imperfect move forward than ask them to carry the real-life burden of Democrat failure. “Trying to unilaterally dictate which national security functions survive while holding key operations and employees hostage during the longest government shutdown in history is not a record I would be proud of – but it’s one Democrats hold. “I thoroughly regret the erosion of the appropriations process Senate Democrats have instigated, and the consequences that were paid by everyday Americans. It is not a standard I accept – and my votes and position throughout this process have made that clear, each and every time,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-protect-united-states-foreign-threats,Cole Votes to Protect the United States from Foreign Threats,2026-04-29,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of the Foreign Intelligence Accountability Act, which renews a critical counter-terror tool, also known as FISA Section 702, that our intelligence community uses to stop foreign terrorists and adversaries before they even strike. This tool is what led to the successful Midnight Hammer operation, the Nicolas Maduro capture, and the prevention of a mass casualty event at a Taylor Swift concert. After voting in favor of the Foreign Intelligence Accountability Act, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “During this time when we are constantly facing threats from our adversaries, the American military has ongoing operations in Iran, and chants of “death to America” are increasing from terrorist groups around the world, it is imperative that Congress take national security seriously. Today, in renewing FISA Section 702, we did just that. This legislation ensures that our intelligence agencies can stop foreign terrorist plots before they even reach American soil, while at the same time protects the American people by ensuring that Section 702 cannot be used to target Americans’ electronic communications for collection,” said Congressman Cole. “Today, the United States House of Representatives made it very clear: our intelligence agencies are prepared and will not allow terrorists or our adversaries to win,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4171,Hern Applauds Passage of Budget Resolution to Fund ICE & CBP,2026-04-29,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) today voted in favor of the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) Budget Resolution, which lays the budget framework for the reconciliation process to fund Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). “For 74 days, Congressional Democrats have held ICE and CBP funding hostage, putting our national security at grave risk,” said Hern. “With today’s passage of the Budget Resolution, we can begin the process of funding those who work every day to secure our homeland. This is what putting America First looks like: backing our border agents, restoring law and order, and keeping Americans safe. House Republicans are committed to getting this done, despite Democrats continuing to play partisan politics at the expense of the American people.""",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-bice-and-brecheen-featured-washington-examiner,ICYMI: Bice and Brecheen Featured in Washington Examiner,2026-04-24,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Last week, Representative Stephanie Bice (OK-05) and Representative Josh Brecheen (OK-02) introduced legislation requiring transparency when taxpayer dollars are used for personal legal settlements from Members of Congress. The Washington Examiner covered the legislation. Read below: EXCLUSIVE — Two House Republicans are proposing the return of public shaming in response to the torrent of bad behavior by their colleagues, like ex-Reps. Eric Swallwell (D-CA) Tony Gonzales (R-TX). Reps. Stephanie Bice (R-OK) and Josh Brecheen (R-OK) told the Washington Examiner they are introducing legislation requiring any member of Congress who uses taxpayer money to settle misconduct lawsuits to be publicly exposed to the entire House. Specifically, the duo’s bill would require lawmakers to stand in the center of the House, in front of their colleagues and the public tuning in at home on C-SPAN, while the chamber’s clerk reads the settlement amount, the reason for the payment, and whether it has been reimbursed. “This type of good governance legislation ensures that members who are found personally liable and use taxpayer dollars to settle a lawsuit cannot hide their actions,” Bice said. “The American people deserve to know whether their lawmakers have been accused of sexual assault, harassment, or other violations of the Congressional Accountability Act.” Under the bill, lawmakers who use taxpayer money to settle misconduct lawsuits would have 30 days to appear in the chamber for public shaming. If the lawmaker refuses, then they would lose access to all committee assignments and leadership positions. Resigning, as Swalwell and Gonzales did to head off expulsion votes, would not save the members from further embarrassment. The Bice-Breechen bill says that if a former member refuses to comply, they will lose access to the House floor and other perks given to ex-lawmakers. Supporters say the measure is meant to shine a light on bad behavior that often goes unnoticed. Congressional law already requires the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights to track and disclose on its website settlements made by congressional offices and agencies for misconduct. Critics say the current system, however, is opaque. They note that reports only list settlements and the category of workplace violation but do not specify who was responsible and the nature of the complaint. “The American People deserve accountability for Members of Congress who abuse their position to victimize others — especially when tax dollars are used in settlements,” Rep. Michael Cloud (R-TX) said. “While well-intended, previous efforts required the public release of even ‘alleged violations’ — even false ones,” Cloud said. “This runs contrary to the foundational legal principle of due process — a principle rooted in Scripture long before it was codified in law.” Read the article here. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-remembers-oklahoma-city-bombing-31st-anniversary,Cole Remembers the Oklahoma City Bombing on the 31st Anniversary,2026-04-20,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – On the 31st anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement: “On April 19, 1995, the worst act of domestic terrorism in our nation’s history took place at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. Today marks thirty-one years since that tragic and memorable day. However, even though the time has passed, as Oklahomans, the Oklahoma City bombing will forever be imprinted in our minds and hearts,” said Congressman Cole. “Today, we first remember and grieve the 168 innocent lives that were cut short on that dark day. I will never forget the heartbreak, grief, and distress I felt as I witnessed mothers, fathers, children, and friends watch their loved ones be brutally taken from them,” said Congressman Cole. “I will also never forget the way Oklahoma responded to such a tragedy. After being rattled and thrown onto the world stage without any warning, we could have panicked. Yet, we didn’t. Instead, our state responded strongly, quickly, and empathetically. To this day, I can truly say this is one of the many reasons I am proud to be an Oklahoman,” said Congressman Cole. “In conclusion, today, on the 31st anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing, let us take the time to mourn the lives that were prematurely taken, grieve with those who lost a loved one that day, and thank our first responders and governing officials like Governor and First Lady Frank and Cathy Keating, Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick, and Congressman Frank Lucas who responded with courage. We must ensure they are not forgotten,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-houlahan-and-letlow-introduce-protecting-families-fertility-fraud-act,"Bice, Houlahan, and Letlow Introduce Protecting Families from Fertility Fraud Act",2026-04-16,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Representatives Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Julia Letlow (LA-05), and Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) reintroduced their bipartisan legislation, Protecting Families from Fertility Fraud Act. This legislation would establish a new federal crime for knowingly misrepresenting the nature or source of DNA used in any assisted reproductive technology procedure. The bill includes a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison, creates a 10-year statute of limitations that begins when DNA evidence identifies a suspect, and adds this offense as a predicate crime under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. This legislation was introduced with the support of numerous victims of Fertility Fraud, including many who featured in the 2022 Netflix documentary, “Our Father”. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “After watching the 2022 Netflix documentary “Our Father,” I was appalled that there was no justice for the families impacted by the heartbreaking situation. Learning that there have been hundreds of cases where fertility doctors knowingly used their own genetic material without their patients’ knowledge or consent was deeply disturbing. This legislation is about protecting patients, ensuring accountability, and delivering justice for victims. While we've generated significant support in the past, I am committed to working with the fertility fraud advocates to get the Protecting Families from Fertility Fraud Act signed into law.” Congresswoman Houlahan issued the following statement: ""I am proud to work with Congresswoman Bice on bipartisan legislation to safeguard patients, their partners, and their children. Our bill makes it a federal crime to misrepresent the source of DNA in fertility treatments and gives affected families the legal tools they need to hold bad actors accountable. It's past time we send this bill to the President's desk and deliver these families a path to justice."" Congresswoman Letlow issued the following statement: “Misrepresenting the source of DNA used in fertility treatments is reprehensible and a disturbing violation of trust between doctor and patient. I’m proud to stand alongside my colleagues in introducing the Protecting Families from Fertility Fraud Act to hold these predators accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our bill also provides victims and their families the dignity, protections, and recourse they deserve."" Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:19:40Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4170,Hern Congratulates Obernolte on Election as Republican Policy Committee Chairman,2026-04-15,2026,2026-04,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) applauded the election of Rep. Jay Obernolte (CA-23) as Chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee (RPC) for the remainder of the 119th Congress. “It’s been an honor to serve as the House Republican Policy Committee Chairman,” said Rep. Hern. “I’m proud of the work we’ve done to move President Trump's America-First agenda forward, and I’m thankful for the trust placed in me to lead principled, conservative policy wins for the American people.” “I congratulate Congressman Obernolte on his election by the entire Republican Conference to serve as the next RPC Chairman for the remainder of the 119th Congress. He is a strong voice within the Republican Conference, and I’m confident the committee will continue driving forward a bold policy agenda under his leadership."" Rep. Hern was elected to serve as Chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee for the 119th Congress in November 2024. He previously served as the Republican Study Committee Chairman for the 118th Congress. ###",1,2026-04-16T05:48:36Z,2026-04-16T05:50:08Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-pay-our-homeland-defenders-act-end-senate-democrat-chaos,Cole Votes in Favor of the Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act to End Senate Democrat Chaos,2026-03-26,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act, which would reopen the Department of Homeland Security, allowing it to return to its mission of protecting our homeland and paying the personnel entrusted with doing so: “Every additional day Democrat leadership allows their shutdown to continue represents more lost paychecks, more airport delays for travelers, more risks to the homeland, and weakened readiness across our national security operations. Where the other side fails, House Republicans step up and make it clear whose priorities we represent – the American people’s,” said Congressman Cole. “The Pay Our Homeland Defenders Act reflects a simple choice: do you want to defend national security or defund it? I voted for our TSA, Secret Service, Coast Guard, cybersecurity experts, FEMA, and all DHS personnel who don’t get to walk away from their duties. Senate Democrats can act now to resolve this. All they have to do is vote ‘yes’ and bring this shutdown to an end. This should not be a partisan issue, as it is about responsibility, safety, and delivering stability for the American people,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-and-jacobs-introduce-workforce-education-and-partnership-act,Bice and Jacobs Introduce the Workforce Education and Partnership Act,2026-03-25,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Representatives Stephanie Bice (OK-05) and Sara Jacobs (CA-51) re-introduced the bipartisan “Workforce Education and Partnership Act”. This legislation would authorize the expansion of three existing “Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act” grant programs to create new partnerships between employers and educational institutions. These partnerships would focus on filling the most critical job vacancies identified by the state and local workforce boards. ""The price of college tuition continues to skyrocket, yet we have unmet workforce needs throughout our communities."" said Congresswoman Bice. ""This legislation will support public private partnership programs and equip states with the tools they need to meet demand. Career tech programs help address these shortages and boost local production. We must continue to support them.” Rep. Sara Jacobs said:“Across the country, a growing disconnect between institutions of higher education and the workforce leads to critical jobs unfilled and too many workers without clear pathways to stable, good-paying careers. I’m proud to co-lead the re-introduction of the Workforce and Education Partnership Act to bring employers and educational institutions together and meet the demands of today’s economy. This legislation will embolden our skilled workforce, expand opportunity, and drive sustainable economic growth in our communities.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:18:47Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-congratulates-new-secretary-homeland-security-markwayne-mullin,Cole Congratulates New Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin,2026-03-24,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after fellow Oklahoman and Native American, Markwayne Mullin, was confirmed to serve as the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security last night: “Congratulations to my friend, Markwayne Mullin, on his confirmation to lead DHS. During this time when our nation faces so many threats both at home and abroad, there is no one I trust more to keep our country safe. I truly have no doubt he is the right man for the job,” said Congressman Cole. “I also would like to thank Markwayne for his service to both Oklahoma and America over the past ten years. I will truly miss having him here in Congress. However, although he has big shoes to fill, I look forward to working with Alan Armstrong in the future to support our great state and the people who call it home,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-06-06T06:16:30Z,2026-06-06T06:17:47Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1577,Congressman Josh Brecheen Introduces the Expedited Transparency Act,2026-03-18,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 18, 2026 Congressman Josh Brecheen Introduces the Expedited Transparency Act Washington, DC–Today, Congressman Brecheen introduced the Expedited Transparency Act to require faster reporting on where taxpayer dollars are being spent. This legislation amends the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act by requiring that all taxpayer disbursements be made public on USASpending.gov within three business days. Co-leads of this legislation are Congressmen Jimmy Panetta and Chip Roy. Original cosponsors are Representatives Begich, Higgins, Cloud, Donalds, Harshbarger, and Self. This legislation also has outside support from the Project on Government Oversight (POGO), Americans for Tax Reform, State Financial Officer Foundation, and American Action Forum. The Washington Stand wrote an exclusive on this legislation, which you can read here. Bill text can be read here. ""It is an honor to introduce the Expedited Transparency Act, which will update late-Senator Coburn’s Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act to require that all disbursements of federal taxpayer dollars be viewable on USASpending within three days. This means that whenever appropriated monies are spent, the agencies will be required to make this disbursement public within three days. Currently, it takes weeks for these disbursements to be made public, furthering the divide between taxpayers and transparency. It is essential that we require rapid transparency, as the longer the delay between disbursement and reporting, the harder it is to demand accountability. Agencies will always seek ways to hide their spending, as evidenced by the major discrepancy in agency reporting: some report in a matter of weeks, some in six months, and some not at all. There must be transparency and accountability, not excuses and delays! By introducing the Expedited Transparency Act, we are advancing the transparency initiative Dr. Coburn championed with the original measure. I want to thank John Hart, CEO of Open the Books, for allowing us to work on this initiative with him. John was the Communications Director for Dr. Coburn when this initiative was originally passed,"" said Congressman Josh Brecheen. ""Our founders wrote transparency into the Constitution before the Bill of Rights because it is a first principle and a building block of our other freedoms. Had the founders had access to today's technology, they would have insisted on real-time transparency. The Expedited Transparency Act is a much-needed improvement to USASpending, which was created by Senators Coburn and Obama in 2006. This bill will dramatically speed up the reporting process and help sunshine overcome secrecy. In a free society, you can't have accountability without visibility. Americans should be encouraged Representatives Brecheen and Panetta are fighting for this first principle across party lines. There are no Republican facts or Democrat facts. There are simply facts. Taxpayers have the right to know how the government is spending their money in as close to real-time as possible,"" said John Hart, CEO, Open the Books. ""Right now, the American people are forced to wait a month before they can see how their tax dollars are being disbursed, a delay that undermines accountability and leaves the public in the dark,"" said Congressman Jimmy Panetta. ""The Expedited Transparency Act closes that gap by requiring federal award information to be posted within 3 days, ensuring citizens have real-time access to how their government spends their money. With this commonsense reform, we can take a meaningful step toward a more transparent and trustworthy federal government."" “Federal spending is out of control, pushing our nation further and further to the brink. One of the many tools we have to keep it in check is transparency. I am proud to lead with Representatives Brecheen and Panetta on this legislation so that taxpayers can finally get timely accounting of how their tax dollars are being spent,"" said Congressman Chip Roy. Background: The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 created USASpending. This was a bipartisan initiative led by late-Senator Coburn and then-Senator Obama to create a portal that allowed taxpayers to view how their tax dollars were being spent. This legislation echoes the objective set forth by our Founding Fathers that transparency must be a core principle of any republic. As Father of our Constitution, James Madison, once wrote, ""[a] popular Government, without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a Prologue to a Farce or a Tragedy; or, perhaps, both. Knowledge will forever govern ignorance: And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.” As it currently stands, USASpending is not updated for weeks at a time, which delays constituent knowledge of how taxpayer dollars are being spent. The Expedited Transparency Act will allow for quicker reporting on how federal funds are spent, fulfilling the precedent set by President Madison. Press Inquiries: kate.bryan@mail.house.gov ###",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:41Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-attends-american-indian-and-alaska-native-public-witness-hearing-0,Cole Attends American Indian and Alaska Native Public Witness Hearing,2026-03-18,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. –Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after attending the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies’ American Indian and Alaska Native public witness hearings this week: “As a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and the longest serving Native American in the House, I am resolute in my commitment to ensure tribal issues are not forgotten in this Chamber and in my Committee. I always have been – and will remain – dedicated to ensuring the federal government upholds its trust responsibility to Native Americans,” said Congressman Cole. “I would like to thank the tribal witnesses for taking the time and traveling to D.C. for these hearings, as their voices are truly valued when drafting legislation in the subcommittee. I would also like to thank Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson for holding this hearing and for working together with me to advance our commitment to Tribal communities across the country,” said Congressman Cole. To watch day one of the hearing, click here. To watch day two of the hearing, click here. ###",1,2026-06-04T06:38:12Z,2026-06-04T06:39:44Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-congratulates-senator-markwayne-mullin-dhs-nomination,Cole Congratulates Senator Markwayne Mullin on DHS Nomination,2026-03-05,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after Senator Markwayne Mullin was announced as the nominee for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security: “Service to the country is one of the highest callings in public life. I am proud to see my congressional colleague, friend, and fellow Native American, Senator Markwayne Mullin, receive this well-deserved nomination to serve as President Trump’s Secretary of Homeland Security. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, he has been a strong partner and a steady leader working across chambers. Markwayne understands the critical importance of securing the homeland and protecting our communities, and I am confident he will serve with distinction in this new role. Vigilance and strength are essential to protecting the nation, and Oklahomans - and the American people - can be confident he will carry out that mission with the resolve it demands,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-05-16T06:05:00Z,2026-05-16T06:06:37Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-house-vote-end-democrat-shutdown-and-fully-fund-homeland,Cole Statement on House Vote to End Democrat Shutdown and Fully Fund Homeland Security,2026-03-05,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole’s (OK-04) legislation, H.R. 7744, which is second time legislation to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and protect the nation’s border, passed the House of Representatives. After the legislation passed, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “The Constitution places the safety and security of the American people at the center of the federal government’s responsibilities. It is a duty I don’t take lightly,” said Congressman Cole. “Amidst rising global tensions and natural disaster possibilities, jeopardizing security operations and emergency preparedness is the last thing anyone should be doing. Yet, Democrats have kept the Department of Homeland Security shuttered for weeks – and again voted to keep it that way.” “They are actively choosing to deny resources to the very people responsible for protecting the American homeland. Cybersecurity operations are at limited capacity, as adversaries like Iran, Russia, and China seek to exploit infrastructure vulnerabilities. Training for first responders has been canceled. FEMA grants – utilized by state and local entities to ensure safety and combat terrorism – can’t be accessed. TSA officers are being forced to work through the shutdown while missing paychecks. Coast Guard men and women, including those in harm’s way in Bahrain, are completing missions without full resources behind them. Even security preparations to keep attendees safe at the America 250 celebrations, the FIFA World Cup, the LA2028 Olympics, and more face disruptions. These impacts are not political or hyperbole. They are the direct cost of Democrats’ decision to play politics with the safeguards of this country,” said Congressman Cole.",1,2026-05-23T06:08:46Z,2026-05-23T06:10:20Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/natural-resources-subcommittee-indian-and-insular-affairs-considers-cole,Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs Considers Cole Legislation,2026-03-04,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) attended the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs hearing as they considered his legislation, H.R. 2827. After speaking at the hearing, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “As a proud member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and the longest serving Native American in the House, I am resolute in my commitment to ensure tribal issues are heard in this chamber. That commitment is what brought me to advocate for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma in the Subcommittee hearing today,” said Congressman Cole. “H.R. 2827 is a straight-forward, bipartisan piece of legislation. It simply resolves the claim to certain land exclusively for the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma without setting any new precedent,” said Congressman Cole. “I would like to thank Chairman Westerman, Chairman Hurd, Ranking Member Huffman, and Ranking Member Leger-Fernandez for their time and consideration. I really do appreciate their efforts to help move this much-needed bill through the legislative process,” said Congressman Cole. Background: In 1805, the Miami Tribe, Eel River Band, and Wea signed the Treaty of Grouseland, which under Article Four reserved all lands within the Wabash River watershed and land located west of the Wabash River, which is in present-day Illinois. Specifically in Article Four of this Treaty, the U.S. acknowledged ownership of this land and agreed not to purchase any part without consent of each of the aforementioned tribes. This key part of the Treaty is why Congress has the sole authority, at the request of the tribes, to extinguish any claims to the land. Then, from 1805 to 1840, the U.S. transferred 2.6 million acres of land to non-native settlers in the area without having acquired title from the Miami, Eel River Band, and Wea under Article Four of the Grouseland Treaty. As a result, title to that land is still held by the Miami Tribe’s superior claim to title and the tribe never consented to that land being purchased. This has caused difficulties for landowners and farmers in Illinois in conducting certain operations or sales of this land. Now, ever since the Indian Claims Commission’s adjustment in 1978, pending documents have been transferred to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims to handle cases on unresolved Indian land claims. However, Congress is the only entity that can authorize the Court of Federal Claims to hear, determine, and render judgement on a tribe’s claim. H.R. 2827 does just that by authorizing the Miami Tribe’s authority to bring their claim forward and relinquishes all claims to the land. There is no monetary compensation included, as it simply allows the tribe to have their day in court. To read the bill text, click here. ###",1,2026-05-07T13:38:59Z,2026-05-07T13:40:28Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-statement-strikes-iran,Cole Statement on Strikes in Iran,2026-03-02,2026,2026-03,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. - Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement in response to strikes in Iran: “It’s a time of reckoning for those who chant ‘Death to America.’ President Trump is right when he calls the effort to eradicate Iran’s nuclear weapons program and give its people the opportunity to seize their freedom ‘a noble mission.’ The evil Iranian regime has been the leading state sponsor of terror for decades. It has killed thousands of people within and beyond its borders, including hundreds of Americans. It must be defanged and dismantled. “The President did not take this action lightly or impulsively. He has warned Iran repeatedly that it must change its policies and its actions. He has negotiated with Iran in good faith and with great clarity. It was the Iranian regime that chose to ignore those warnings and make a mockery of those negotiations. In doing so, its tyrannical leaders made an enormous miscalculation. “Our Commander in Chief has made clear that his goal is not just to stop Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. It is also to give the Iranian people a chance to take back their country. Self-determination and freedom will be theirs to claim. I hope they will. “Like every American, my thoughts and prayers are with our brave and capable men and women in uniform who are carrying out this noble but hard and dangerous mission. I know that they will have the unwavering support of every American, and I am confident that they will acquit themselves with honor and distinction. “May God protect our troops and the innocent Iranian people – and once again – as He so often has, bless America,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4166,Hern Statement on U.S. Strikes on Iran,2026-02-28,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement on the U.S. strikes carried out on Iran: ""As the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism, the Iranian regime is an active threat to the United States, our allies, and stability across the Middle East. Iran’s refusal to accept a deal left President Trump with no choice other than to take decisive action to ensure the regime never possesses a nuclear weapon. There is no peace without strength, and the United States will not sit by while this regime pursues their nuclear ambitions, fuels their terrorist proxies, and brutalizes the Iranian people. ""I’m praying for our brave troops in the region. May God bless them, and may God bless the United States."" ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4167,Hern Releases Statement Following the Elimination of Ayatollah Khamenei,2026-02-28,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after confirmation that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, was eliminated by American and Israeli forces: ""Ayatollah Khamenei led a regime committed to the destruction of the United States and was responsible for the death of thousands, including hundreds of Americans, and the oppression of anyone opposed to his evil dictatorship. His death marks a historic occasion and delivers justice for his aggression against the free world and the Iranian people over many decades. I am praying for the continued safety and success of our brave U.S. military personnel as they continue this daring mission."" ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-reacts-president-trumps-state-union-address,Cole Reacts to President Trump’s State of the Union Address,2026-02-25,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after attending President Donald J. Trump’s State of the Union address: “Throughout the first year of President Trump’s term as the 47th President of the United States, the President has delivered on the mandate of the American people and truly ushered in the golden age. Tonight, President Trump delivered a powerful speech that illustrated just that,” said Congressman Cole. “At the border, we have seen a complete one-eighty, as illegal “getaways” are down by 95 percent and migrant crossings are down by 99.99 percent. Rampant crime and disorder are turning into safer communities. We have made national security a priority again, making generational investments in America’s defense through the One Big Beautiful Bill and utilizing decisive leadership to make bold but necessary decisions like air striking Iran last year and capturing Venezuelan President Maduro earlier this year,” said Congressman Cole. “I would be remiss not to mention the significant economic strides. The One Big Beautiful Bill provided the largest tax cuts in history and will bring long-lasting financial relief to families, workers, and small businesses. Years of inflation and stagnation are being replaced with renewed growth and a resurgent economy. Measurable progress has been made on cost-of-living pressures, drug costs have been lowered on the consumer, and red tape has been cut for small businesses,” said Congressman Cole. “In just one year, President Trump has turned this country around. Under the previous Administration, our country had turned a blind eye to illegal immigration, we had lost respect on the world stage, and inflation was skyrocketing. Now, the American Dream is back. The United States is strong, prosperous, and respected – and, as President Trump said, the state of our union is strong,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-05-01T06:06:26Z,2026-05-01T06:08:22Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4165,Hern Statement on President Trump’s State of the Union Address,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern released the following statement after President Trump’s State of the Union address: “Tonight, President Trump reaffirmed that when we put America first, America wins. At an unprecedented pace, he’s reversed the damage caused by four years of reckless Biden-era policies that sent our nation down the wrong path. Families are now seeing historic tax relief, lower inflation, a secure border, and peace around the world – this is only the beginning. I’m proud to stand alongside President Trump as we continue our work to lower costs, put more money in Americans’ pockets, and strengthen the American Dream for families across the country.” ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-response-president-trumps-state-union,Bice Response to President Trumps State of the Union,2026-02-24,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement after attending President Trump’s State of the Union. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “As we celebrate America’s 250th year of Independence, our nation continues to strive for greater heights; and tonight, President Trump highlighted that the state of our union is strong indeed. During his speech, the President highlighted the real benefits that all Oklahomans will feel. This includes cheaper gas, higher wages, and more money in your pockets. Over the last year, we voted to extend the largest tax cuts in American history, closed our southern border, and worked to get our country back on track. Oklahomans support President Trump's leadership and look forward to the next three years.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:58Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-introduces-legislation-aid-tribal-police-searching-missing-children,Cole Introduces Legislation to Aid Tribal Police in Searching for Missing Children,2026-02-13,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – This week, Representative Tom Cole (R-OK), along with Reps. Darrell Issa (R-CA), Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM), introduced H.R. 7490, the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act, to grant the United States Marshal Service (USMS) the authority to both execute arrest warrants on behalf of Tribal law enforcement and assist in searching for missing children. After introducing the legislation, the Representatives released the following statements: “For far too long, predators have preyed on vulnerable children in Indian Country at alarming rates. Yet, Tribal law enforcement still faces obstacles and limitations when it comes to holding these predators accountable,” said Representative Cole. “By improving coordination and strengthening the partnership between USMS and Tribal law enforcement, the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act will make Native American communities safer and ultimately bring more criminals to justice. I would like to thank Representatives Issa, Larsen, and Leger Fernandez for their coordination on this legislation, as it is critical that Tribal governments have the resources they need to protect their children.” “I’m proud to join my colleagues as we introduce the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act and reaffirm our shared commitment to the rule of law across all jurisdictions. This much-needed legislation will specifically strengthen public safety in these communities by improving coordination between Tribal and federal authorities and ensuring law enforcement is empowered to act swiftly in urgent cases, especially involving missing children,” said Representative Issa. “Tribal warrants should be enforced to the fullest extent of the law, just like all other warrants,” said Representative Larsen. “I thank Chair Cole for his work to uphold Tribal sovereignty in Congress. I will continue working with him to better support Tribal law enforcement through this bill and other efforts to keep Tribes and communities across Northwest Washington safe.” “For too long, jurisdictional gaps have made it harder to protect Native children,” said Representative Leger Fernandez. “When a Native American child goes missing, tribes should be able to utilize every tool to find them. Our bipartisan Tribal Warrant Fairness Act strengthens coordination between tribal and federal authorities, respects tribal sovereignty, and helps keep children safe.” Background: In 2023, the Not Invisible Act Commission found that federal law has set limitations on Tribal law enforcement, one of which is the inability and lack of authority for the United States Marshal Service (USMS) to assist Tribal law enforcement with warrants for arrest and searching for missing children, as the USMS would normally do with state, federal, and local agencies. Ultimately, this limits the USMS’ ability to execute Tribal arrest warrants. The Tribal Warrant Fairness Act would grant the USMS the authority to execute arrest warrants on behalf of Tribal law enforcement and allow the USMS to assist Tribal law enforcement in searching for missing children. Additionally, this legislation would allow for a more rapid apprehension of violent suspects, grant the authority to the USMS to act on an individual who has a violent felony arrest warrant from Tribal courts and poses a threat to public safety outside of Tribal lands, and allow the participation of Tribal law enforcement in the Fugitive Apprehension Task Forces. Overall, the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act will improve public safety, enhance interagency cooperation, and close jurisdictional gaps that often hinder law enforcement efforts on Tribal lands. H.R. 7490 is a bicameral, bipartisan bill, as it was also introduced by Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV) in the Senate. The legislation has also been endorsed by the United States Marshal Service (USMS), the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET), the National Native American Law Enforcement Association (NNALEA), and the Coalition of Large Tribes (COLT). ###",1,2026-04-30T06:05:15Z,2026-04-30T06:07:09Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4164,Hern Votes to Restore Election Integrity,2026-02-11,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) voted today in support of the SAVE America Act, which protects the voice of every lawful American voter by requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration and photo ID when voting in federal elections, and ordering states to remove noncitizens from their lists of eligible voters. “Only U.S. citizens should vote in U.S. elections,” said Rep. Hern. “By closing loopholes and reinforcing accountability, we help ensure Americans' voices are accurately represented when they cast their ballots. The overwhelming majority of Americans support requiring ID to vote, and I’m proud to have cosponsored and helped pass this commonsense legislation out of the House so we can begin restoring trust in our elections.” The SAVE America Act permits various forms of documentation to confirm citizenship when registering to vote, as well as various forms of photo identification when voting. There are also provisions to account for name changes and mismatches between different forms of identification. Read the full bill here. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-davids-introduce-legislation-investigate-history-indian-boarding-schools,"Cole, Davids Introduce Legislation to Investigate History of Indian Boarding Schools",2026-02-09,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro Washington, D.C. – Co-Chairs of the Congressional Native American Caucus, Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK-04) and Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), reintroduced H.R. 7325, the Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act of 2025, to formally investigate, document, and report on the histories of Indian boarding schools, the policies of Indian boarding schools, and the long-term effects of those schools and policies on Native American peoples. Cole, a member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and the longest-serving Native American in the United States House of Representatives, and Davids, a member of the Wisconsin Ho-Chunk Nation and one of the first two Native women ever elected to Congress, are dedicated to offering answers and healing for survivors of these Indian boarding schools, the descendants of those survivors, and the entire Tribal communities of those survivors. After reintroducing the legislation, the members of Congress released the following statements: “For years, Indian boarding schools forcibly removed Native children from their families, stripped them of their heritage, and, in many cases, took their lives. Yet, for far too long, little has been known about these Indian boarding schools, and these stories have been kept in the shadows. This silence cannot go on. We must bring light to this dark chapter in our nation’s history – and this bill is critical to doing that,” said Congressman Cole, Member of the Chickasaw Nation of Oklahoma and Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus. “I would like to thank my Co-Chair, Congresswoman Davids, for her collaboration on this legislation, as we work to hopefully bring Tribal communities one step closer to the answers they deserve.” “I would not be here without the resilience of my ancestors and those who came before me – including my grandparents, who survived federal Indian boarding schools. Their experiences are not distant history; they shape our families and communities today. Establishing a Truth and Healing Commission would bring survivors, experts, federal partners, and Tribal leaders together to fully understand what happened to our relatives and to take meaningful steps toward a more honest and hopeful future for the next seven generations,” said Congresswoman Sharice Davids, Member of the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin and Co-Chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus. Background: From 1819 through the 1970s, the United States government implemented policies establishing Indian boarding schools across the nation. The purpose of these schools was to assimilate Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian children by forcibly removing them from their families, communities, and cultural beliefs. In total, there were more than 526 government-funded and church-run Indian boarding schools, and, by 1926, nearly 86 percent of Indian school-age children were forcibly attending these schools. Yet, little is known about what happened at these boarding schools or what happened to the Native children who attended them. In Oklahoma alone, there were 76 federal boarding schools, making up about 19 percent of the total amount of boarding schools that existed. Federal boarding schools in Oklahoma were often overflowed due to intentionally mixing more than 30 different tribes in attempts to unsettle relations and prevent the speaking of common languages. In Kansas, there were 14 federal boarding schools, including the Shawnee Indian Manual Labor School in Fairway in Kansas’ Third District, which is now preserved as the Shawnee Indian Mission State Historic Site. According to the Kansas State Historical Society, this school operated from 1838 to 1862 and enrolled nearly 200 children at it largest. H.R. 7325 will establish a commission to formally investigate, document, and report on the histories of Indian boarding schools, Indian boarding school policies, and the long-term effect of those schools and policies on Native American peoples. The commission will develop recommendations for federal efforts based on the findings, as well as offer answers and healing for survivors, the descendants of survivors, and the communities of survivors. ###",1,2026-04-21T05:46:59Z,2026-04-21T05:48:34Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4163,Hern Announces U.S. Service Academy Nominees for Class of 2030,2026-02-05,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"TULSA, O.K. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) announced the names of outstanding students from Oklahoma’s First Congressional District who received nominations to the United States Service Academies for the Class of 2030. “These young men and women represent the very best of Oklahoma,” said Rep. Hern. “They have demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic achievement, and a commitment to service. Earning a nomination to one of our nation’s service academies is a tremendous honor, and I am confident they will serve our country with distinction.” “I congratulate each of these students and their families on this incredible achievement,” Rep. Hern added. “Their willingness to pursue a path of service speaks volumes about their character and dedication to our nation.” Each year, Members of Congress are authorized to nominate a limited number of students to the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point, U.S. Naval Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Final appointment decisions are made by the academies. The following students from Oklahoma’s First District have been nominated by Rep. Hern: Benjymin Barrett – Adair High School • U.S. Air Force Academy Austin Bitting – Holland Hall • U.S. Military Academy at West Point • U.S. Naval Academy Jake Brown – Rejoice Christian School • U.S. Naval Academy Yeunwoo Chang – Union High School • U.S. Military Academy at West Point Tyler Christensen – Berryhill High School • U.S. Air Force Academy • U.S. Military Academy at West Point • U.S. Naval Academy Jeffrey Emmons – Jenks High School • U.S. Naval Academy Logan Flowers – Broken Arrow High School • U.S. Air Force Academy Abby Gourd – Porter High School • U.S. Air Force Academy • U.S. Naval Academy Owen Govier – Bishop Kelley High School • U.S. Military Academy at West Point • U.S. Naval Academy Leonidas Holmsley – University of Central Oklahoma • U.S. Air Force Academy Aiden Hoskin – Jenks High School • U.S. Military Academy at West Point • U.S. Naval Academy Allyson Houck – Tulsa Community College • U.S. Military Academy at West Point Kaleb Langston – Charles Page High School • U.S. Naval Academy Grayson McClurg – Coweta High School • U.S. Naval Academy Kim Deih Piang – Tulsa Community College • U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Charles Ribaudo – Metro Christian Academy • U.S. Air Force Academy • U.S. Military Academy at West Point • U.S. Naval Academy Abril Sanchez – USAF Preparatory School • U.S. Air Force Academy Tanner Thach – Bishop Kelley High School • U.S. Air Force Academy • U.S. Naval Academy Connor Veldstra – Victory Christian School • U.S. Air Force Academy • U.S. Naval Academy Jeffry Williams – Union High School • U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Luke Wimberley – Owasso High School • U.S. Military Academy at West Point ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-introduces-medical-student-education-authorization-act,Cole Introduces the Medical Student Education Authorization Act,2026-02-04,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) introduced H.R. 5428, the Medical Student Education Authorization Act, along with Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV). This legislation would authorize the Medical Student Education (MSE) Program, which provides grants to public institutions of higher education to expand or support graduate education for physicians in states with the most severe primary care provider shortages, through the Fiscal Year 2028. After introducing the legislation, the members of Congress released the following statements: “Data shows that medical students and residents often decide to practice in the same community where they completed their training. Therefore, by providing medical education in rural, tribal, or underserved areas – and increasing recruitment in these places – we can make a difference by increasing the likelihood of access to quality care in these communities in the long term. The Medical Student Education Authorization Act will help to do just that,” said Congressman Cole. “I am grateful for Congresswoman Titus for her collaboration on this vital legislation, and I look forward to continuing to work together to ensure relief for communities struggling with shortages of healthcare providers.” “We need a whole-of-government approach to address the physician shortages plaguing communities here in Nevada and across the country. By supporting medical student training in underserved areas, we can invest in the next generation of providers while improving care access to patient outcomes,” said Congresswoman Titus. This legislation is also endorsed by several stakeholders, who offered praise for the bill: “The American Associations of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) applauds Representatives Cole and Titus for reintroducing the Medical Student Education Authorization Act,” said Robert A. Cain, President and CEO of AACOM. “Osteopathic medical schools lead the nation in graduating physicians who practice primary care in rural and medically underserved areas. The MSE Program expands opportunities for osteopathic graduates to train in the communities that need them most. AACOM is proud to support this bipartisan bill, which will strengthen the physician workforce and increase access to care in tribal, rural, and underserve communities.” “Health care professionals continue to provide dedicated, high-quality care to our patients and communities. However, ongoing staffing shortages have contributed to increased stress and burnout of care teams. The Medical Student Education Authorization Act would help remedy this by providing grants to public institutions on behalf of higher education to support areas with severe primary care provider shortages. We thank Representatives Cole and Titus for their leadership on behalf of the nation’s health workforce,” said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, Senior Vice President of Federal Relations, Advocacy, and Political Affairs of the American Hospital Association. “There is a critical shortage of physicians in rural America, where limited access to care continues to drive poorer health outcomes. The Medical Student Education Authorization Act is a smart, bipartisan investment in the future of our nation’s critical health care workforce – one that would expand the pipeline of primary care providers serving tribal, rural, and medically underserved communities,” said American Medical Association President, Bobby Mukkamala, M.D. “We commend Chairman Cole and Rep. Titus for sponsoring this bipartisan bill and look forward to supporting it as it moves through the legislative process.” “The Oklahoma State Medical Association (OSMA) strongly supports the Medical Student Education Authorization Act, which will help address Oklahoma’s physician shortages by expanding training opportunities in rural, Tribal, and underserved communities. We commend Representative Cole for his leadership in securing the future of Oklahoma’s healthcare workforce,” said OSMA President Dr. Sumit Nanda. Background: The Medical Student Education (MSE) Program, which is administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and was first authorized in an Appropriations bill in 2019, provides grants to public institutions of higher education to expand or support graduate education for physicians. This program specifically focuses these grants on institutions in states with the most severe primary care provider shortages, as it is widely recognized that the training experience in medically underserved communities increases the likelihood that a physician will practice there. Since the program’s inception, MSE has been a success. In fact, through the program, nearly $337,000,000 in grants has been provided to train the next generation of providers and mitigate these shortages. However, unfortunately, the MSE Program, because it was first authorized through the appropriations process, has no long-term authorization. As such, the program must be reauthorized annually through the appropriations process. If it is not reauthorized, funded institutions will be subject to financial uncertainty and the risk of sudden funding cutoffs. The MSE Authorization Act, introduced in the House by Representatives Cole and Titus, would ensure the program remains funded through the Fiscal Year 2028. This legislation is endorsed by the American Associations of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), the American Hospital Association (AHA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the Oklahoma State Medical Association (OSMA). ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-re-votes-favor-five-full-year-funding-bills-restore-government-stability,Cole Re-Votes in Favor of Five Full-Year Funding Bills to Restore Government Stability,2026-02-03,2026,2026-02,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (R-OK) voted in favor of the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. This bill, which enacts five full-year Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills previously passed by the House, is now on its way to President Trump’s desk for a signature. Additionally, the package also includes a two-week continuing resolution for the Department of Homeland Security in order to give Congress and the White House more time to continue to negotiate on a final spending bill. After voting in favor of this legislation and ensuring the government functions, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “Months of bipartisan, bicameral work produced a final funding agreement, and the House stood by it. When that deal was altered at the last minute in the Senate and the government was disrupted, we didn’t walk away. Instead, we stepped up again. That is what responsible governance looks like,” said Congressman Cole. “Therefore, today, we have once again strengthened national defense, supported education and health systems, modernized our transportation and infrastructure, supported small businesses, and reasserted diplomacy on the world stage. These are real outcomes for the American people – progress that keeps the nation moving and the government working,” said Congressman Cole. “We have also ensured continuity for critical Homeland Security services, including support for the Coast Guard, FEMA, TSA, cybersecurity, and more. This path forward will allow the White House to continue good faith negotiations with Democrats – without jeopardizing the continuity of government operations,” said Congressman Cole. “With President Trump’s signature, more than 95 percent of the federal government will officially be funded through full-year appropriations. That is Article I responsibility put into action,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-final-four-appropriations-bills,Bice Supports Final Four Appropriations Bills,2026-01-23,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed the final four FY26 appropriations bills: Defense; Homeland; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education (LHHS); and Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD); and Homeland Security. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “The appropriations bills passed by the House deliver results for Oklahoma and communities across the country. Importantly, they strengthen American military superiority and fund the E-7 wedgetail program at Tinker AFB. Provisions in the bill end open border policies of the Biden-era, champion measures to make America healthier, and allow our nation to build stronger, travel safer, and support future growth. As Vice Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, I’m particularly proud of the portion that modernizes our transportation infrastructure by improving aviation safety, strengthening transit systems, and supporting local economic development. Chairman Tom Cole deserves tremendous credit for fighting to get all twelve appropriations bills passed by the House. Mr. Cole and the entire Appropriations Committee have delivered on their commitment to reduce spending, deliver wins for our constituents, and codify the priorities of the Trump Administration.” Bice Provisions Which Benefit Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District: Funding for the Chandler Regional Airport Runway Extension Funding for the Shawnee Regional Airport Runway and Taxiway Strengthening Funding for the East Edmond Electric Substation Congresswoman Bice spoke in favor of the rule to consider this package. Click here to watch. Congresswoman Bice spoke in favor of the THUD provision within this package. Click here to watch. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:17:32Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-defense-labor-health-and-human-services-education,"Cole Votes in Favor of Defense; Labor, Health and Human Services, Education; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; and Homeland Security Appropriations Packages",2026-01-22,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"January 22, 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R. 7149, the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026, which includes funding for Defense; Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education; and Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, and H.R. 7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2026. After voting in favor of the bills, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “Over the past 250 years in America, we have created the greatest volunteer military in the world, made significant medical advances through biomedical research, improved transportation through the Interstate Highway System, and transformed security preparedness across all domains. Today, in passing these full-year funding measures, we recognized that legacy and our obligation to carry it forward,” said Congressman Cole. “These bills champion American military power, support lifesaving biomedical research and resilient medical supply chains, and back the growth of America’s transportation sector. Additionally, the Homeland Security funding bill provides for much-needed investments into enhanced border security, as well as other measures essential to protecting the American homeland from terrorists, narco-traffickers, criminals, and other bad actors who wish us harm,” said Congressman Cole. “Today, the House of Representatives finished the job, as we have now officially passed all twelve funding bills for the Fiscal Year 2026. Subcommittee Chairmen Calvert, Aderholt, Womack, and Amodei have worked hard to get this legislation across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing it placed on President Trump’s desk,” said Congressman Cole. Key Provisions in the Defense; Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; and Homeland Security Appropriations Acts of 2026 Defense Champions American military superiority enhancing investments in 5th and 6th generation aircraft. Boosts production of munitions critical to winning conflicts with pacing adversaries like China. Provides $13.3 billion for Special Operations Forces operations, equipment, and capabilities development. Provides a 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers. Provides a 1% civilian employee pay increase. Combats international actors who facilitate drug manufacturing and trafficking into our country. Ensures no funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, Critical Race Theory, or abortion-related travel at the Pentagon. Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education Protects the right to life by maintaining the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits taxpayer funding for abortion on demand. Maintains the Dickey Amendment, which ensures that federal funds cannot be used to advocate or promote restrictions to Second Amendment rights. Rescinds the Biden Administration’s massive expansion of the IRS. Champions President Trump and Secretary Kennedy’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) agenda. Increases funding to train workers and educate students in rural America. Provides $48.7 billion to ensure America remains the pioneer in biomedical research. Prioritizes increased funding for the Social Security Administration to enhance frontline customer service provided directly for America’s seniors. Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Increases funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) by $1.588 billion, which will keep our skies safe and help build a world-class air traffic control system. Provides the FAA with resources to hire 2,500 new air traffic controllers. Invests in highway and airport infrastructure. Codifies DOGE recommendations to reduce the federal bureaucracy at Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development agencies by 29%. Reinforces citizenship requirements for housing assistance. Prohibits the Department of Transportation from enforcing COVID-19 mask mandates on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs. Maintains “Buy American” provisions. Homeland Security Realigns the Department of Homeland Security’s priorities around its fundamental mission: defending the nation against the threat imposed by terrorists, criminals, and foreign adversaries to ensure the safety and security of every American. Enhances resources to detect and counter the spread of deadly drugs. Partners with state and local law enforcement to enhance immigration enforcement and homeland defense capabilities. Bolsters disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts for U.S. communities through increased grant funding for firefighters and first responders. Includes a military pay raise for Coast Guard servicemembers. Provides $513 million to sustain 22,000 Border Patrol agents, $3.8 billion for custody operations to strengthen this Administration’s efforts to detain and deport all criminal and removable aliens, and $420 million to hire critical positions at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to counter the threat from China. Ends programs that incentivize illegal immigration. Oklahoma Priorities/ Congressman Cole Secured in the Defense; Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education; Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; and Homeland Security Appropriations Acts of 2026 Defense $715 million for Paladin Integrate Management to support ammunition operations and testing at Fort Sill. $740 million for programs that support operations, soldier health, and counter-UAS advancements at Fort Sill. Includes language to safeguard and prevent the closure of the Fort Sill National Historic Landmark and Museum. $1.1 billion for research, development, test, and evaluation of the E-7 Wedgetail to help accelerate this replacement for the aging E-3 AWACS platform at Tinker Air Force Base. Includes language to protect and bolster the E-7 Wedgetail aircraft program and prohibits funds to pause, cancel, or terminate the program. $1.17 billion for programs that support operations at Tinker Air Force Base including advancements in additive manufacturing and 3D printing capabilities. $17 million for the Indian Incentive Program to support Native American economic development initiatives. $1.043 billion for TACAMO Modernization to support the Navy’s strategic command missions at Tinker Air Force Base. Over $180 million for programs and industry support located within the Fires Innovation Science and Technology Accelerator (FISTA) in Lawton, Oklahoma. This includes support for advancements in counter-UAS, AI implementation, and surveillance technology. Over $160 million for advancements in radar technology, MRADS, software innovations, and fuel capability enhancements in partnership or led by the University of Oklahoma. Over $256 million in cutting-edge technologies and innovations spearheaded by industries in Lawton, Ardmore, Chickasha, Duncan, and Oklahoma City. Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education 3 to 13% in tribal set-asides for National Health Service Corps Loan Repayment Program, Tribal Epidemiology Centers, Child Care and Development Block Grant, and opioid response grants. $207.4 million for tribal behavioral grants for substance abuse prevention and mental health programs. $6 million for Tribal minority HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment program. Includes language supporting a National Rural Water Apprenticeship Program to promote workforce development and opportunities. $116.8 million for Native American Caregiver, Nutrition Support Services, and Native American training and employment programs. $67.8 million for Tribally Controlled Colleges, Universities, and Postsecondary Career and Technical Institutions. $602.9 million for universal flu vaccine research, pandemic influenza preparedness, and Infectious Disease Rapid Response Reserve Fund. $415 million increase for the National Institutes of Health (NIH). $100 million increase in Alzheimer’s disease research funding across the NIH. $75 million for Medical Student Education grants to improve primary care physician training in rural and underserved areas. $27 million for the Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country program to promote chronic disease prevention in Tribal communities. $735 million in Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement Program, which aids public health departments to respond effectively to public health threats. $450.95 million for the Institutional Development Award Program (IDeA), which increases biomedical research capacity in States with the lowest levels of NIH funding. $63.5 million for Native American social and economic programs to improve the wellbeing of Native people and local economy. $9 million for the Improving Native American Cancer Outcomes Program to address higher cancer incidence and mortality among Native Americans. $12.4 million in funding for Head Start. $1.05 billion for Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). $850 million for Project Bioshield, a secure funding source for the purchase of critical medical countermeasures, such as vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. $1 billion for the Strategic National Stockpile. $1.191 billion for TRIO. $388 million for GEAR UP. $13 million for Rural Community Facilities Technical Assistance Program. $4.045 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Report language requiring CDC funds to State health departments be passed through to local health departments. $10 million for the ALS Registry. $2.1 million for Interstitial Cystitis research. $6 million for the Center for Indigenous Innovation and Health. $440 million for the Charter Schools Program. Report language promoting training and technical assistance to Community Health Centers. $14.365 million for national activities within the Office of Indian Education. $1.477 billion for Impact Aid Basic Support Payments, which provides support for federally impacted schools that don’t receive traditional funding through local taxes, such as schools serving a high percentage of military or Native American students. $38 million for Special Olympics. $185 million in state grants for employment and training services for veterans. $3 million for Strengthening State Indian Child Welfare Act Compliance. Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development $7 million for Haliburton Field Improvements at Duncan Municipal Airport. $15 million for Ada Regional Airport improvements. $17.1 million for the University of Oklahoma Westheimer Airport improvements. $3.96 million for the City of Lindsay’s New Electrical Substation. $4.34 million for the Walters Public Works Authority Substation Rebuild and Capacity Enhancement Project. $5 million for the City of Lawton’s Alternate Water Supply. $6.286 million for the Pauls Valley Lake Emergency Overflow Spillway project. $7 million for Goldsby Municipal Water improvements. $7.5 million for Ardmore Storm Water and Street improvements. $8.45 million for the Chickasaw Nation Water Quality and Hazardous Substance Testing Center. $11.5 million for the Fires Innovation Science and Technology Accelerator’s (FISTA) Science and Technology Convergence Institute. $12 million for the Newcastle Wastewater Treatment Facility. $4 million for the FAA to continue the work established in Fiscal Year 2024 at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, in partnership with aviation manufacturers, to accelerate testing, certification, and the implementation of new radio altimeter capabilities consistent with the next generation of avionics standards. Includes language preventing funds to be used for the construction of a second Air Traffic Control Training Academy. $13.71 billion for FAA operations. $4 billion for FAA facilities and equipment. $1.236 billion for the Native American housing block grant program. $200 million for the Tribal transportation program. $1.8 million for the Indian housing guarantee fund program. $1 million for the Title VI Loan Program under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA). $10 million for the Tribal HUD-VASH program. $14 million for Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) research that will support the FAA in their mission to integrate UAS into the National Airspace System, complimenting the work being done at the University of Oklahoma. $158 million for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation. $57.5 million for housing counseling assistance at HUD. $1.031 billion for housing for the elderly. $529 million for housing opportunities for people with AIDS. $5 million to support the wide adoption of multiple technologies that provide the necessary GPS backup and complementary position, navigation, and timing. $3.3 billion for the community development block grant program at HUD. $10 million to test the utilization of high-powered microwave systems in the national airspace system to defend against unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. $7.426 million for consolidated rail infrastructure and safety improvements. $10 million to address lead and other residential environmental stressors in low-income communities in older housing stock. Homeland Security $48 million for the Next Generation Warning System Grant Program that funds public safety communications infrastructure. $11.4 million for the National Dam Safety grants to assist states in mitigating and repairing high risk dams. $494 million for the State Homeland Security Program, which funds the Oklahoma Counter Terrorism Intelligence Center (OCTIC). $14.25 million provided for the Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program. $5 million for Long-Endurance Unmanned Aircraft Systems within CBP, which are currently developed at Fort Sill. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-additional-appropriations-package,Bice Supports Additional Appropriations Package,2026-01-16,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to advance a package containing two additional Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations bills: the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act (FSGG) and the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act (NSRP). Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Today marks the second package of appropriations bills we have passed overwhelmingly. It is critical we continue to responsibly fund the government, and that is exactly what we are doing. These bills end divisive Biden-era policies and help codify President Trump’s America First agenda. The FSGG bill strengthens our financial systems by enhancing cybersecurity and modernizing critical government infrastructure. The NSRP bill aligns foreign assistance towards U.S. national security priorities, eliminates Biden-era funding for terrorist groups, counters near-peer adversaries like China, and strengthens border security. I was proud to support a package that reorients our spending, eliminates waste, and supports American values.”",1,2026-06-10T06:36:00Z,2026-06-10T06:37:32Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-financial-services-and-general-government-and-national,"Cole Votes in Favor of Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act of 2026",2026-01-14,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R. 7006, a two-bill funding package covering the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) and the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) appropriations measures for the fiscal year 2026. After voting in favor of the package, he released the following statement: “Congress is maintaining momentum on full-year government funding. President Trump signed the first three appropriations bills into law in November. Then, last Thursday, the House passed a package of three more funding bills. Now, today, we added two more bills to that tally,” said Congressman Cole. “With this two-bill funding package, we are advancing the mandate of the American people and continuing to reign in President Trump’s golden age. Small businesses and entrepreneurs are supported, and consumer freedom is safeguarded. We protect our nation by strengthening cyber defenses and dismantling the networks that enable terrorism and drug trafficking. By realigning our diplomacy and national posture to deter threats, peace through strength is being restored,” said Congressman Cole. “I am very proud of the hard work the Appropriations Committee, our Cardinals, Democratic Ranking Members, and Republican leadership has put in to get this legislation through the finish line. These bills serve a clear purpose – safety, security, and freedom – and I look forward to sending it to President Trump’s desk,” said Congressman Cole. Key Provisions in the Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026 Financial Services and General Government Modernizes the IRS to better support taxpayers and crack down on fraud. Supports entrepreneurship and small business development. Maintains “Buy American” provisions. Protects consumer freedom in kitchen appliance, other tool, and recreational vehicle products through prohibition of Biden-era regulations. Maintains critical pro-life riders. Invests in the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program to strengthen interdiction efforts and stop narcotics from entering our borders. Takes steps to identify underutilized federal office spaces to cut wasteful Washington spending. National Security, Department of State, and Related Agencies Reprioritizes funding in support of U.S. national security. Eliminates wasteful spending on DEI or woke programming, climate change mandates, and divisive gender ideologies at the State Department. Holds the United Nations accountable. Holds foreign governments and bad actors accountable for their persecution of people of faith. Confronts human trafficking. Provides support, funds, or assistance for Israel, Egypt, Jordan, and Tawain. Provides for United States national security interests in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s malign influence. Denies China access to U.S.-backed resources. Prioritizes fiscal sanity with over $9 billion in cuts. Oklahoma Priorities/ Congressman Cole Secured in the Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026 Financial Services and General Government $28 million for Native Initiatives at the Community Development Financial Institution Fun, improving financial capacity for tribal nations to expand community development. $5.3 million for Native American outreach through the Small Business Association’s Office of Native American Affairs. $324 million for the Community Development Financial Institution Fund, allowing for access to opportunities and economic growth in rural communities. $27 million for the Small Business Association’s Women’s Business Centers. $45 million for the Election Assistance Commission’s Election Security Grants to ensure our elections are safe from cyber threats and other bad actors. Secured language requiring the General Services Administration to audit all its technology to identify IT products that were produced by companies with ties to the People’s Republic of China. Secured language requiring the Office of Management and Budget to work with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Office of the National Cyber Director to submit a report to Congress on the status of the deployment of Endpoint Detection and Response solutions, as well as a timeline of full coverage to combat cyber threats from sophisticated adversaries like Russia and China. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://lucas.house.gov/posts/lucas-highlights-need-to-add-ag-secretary-to-cfius,Lucas Highlights Need to Add Ag Secretary to CFIUS,2026-01-14,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Frank D. Lucas,L000491,lucas.house.gov,lucas,https://lucas.house.gov/press,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, the House Financial Services Committee held a hearing entitled, “Evaluating the Operations of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS)”. Chris Pilkerton, the recently sworn in Assistant Secretary for Investment Security at the Department of Treasury, was the invited witness. Congressman Frank D. Lucas spoke in support of his bill to add the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member to CFIUS in order to better protect America’s agricultural security. SELECTED REMARKS: Lucas: “The issue of ownership of key agriculture equities like land and infrastructure by foreign adversaries has continued to raise alarm bells across the country. That’s why I introduced the bipartisan Agricultural Risk Review Act – to add the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member to CFIUS for any transaction relating to the Ag industry and to require CFIUS to initiate reviews of threats notified by USDA. Mr. Pilkerton – can you provide Treasury’s perspective? How does CFIUS benefit from the Secretary of Agriculture’s input? Would it be helpful for the Secretary [of Agriculture] to be a permanent member for transactions related to Ag?” Mr. Pilkerton: “Secretary Rollins often says food security is national security, and I certainly agree with that.” -Chris Pilkerton, Assistant Secretary for Investment Security, U.S. Department of the Treasury BACKGROUND The Agricultural Risk Review Act adds the Secretary of Agriculture as a permanent member on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), the interagency committee charged with reviewing the national security implications of foreign investments in the economy. The bill also requires CFIUS to consider referrals from USDA for reportable agricultural land transactions. The Agricultural Risk Review Act passed the House in June of last year.",1,2026-03-31T05:33:41Z,2026-03-31T05:34:51Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-crime-victims-fund-stabilization-act,Bice Supports the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act,2026-01-13,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 909, the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2025. This bill, which Congresswoman Bice is an original cosponsor of, redirects unobligated funds collected through the False Claims Act to the Crime Victims Fund through fiscal year 2029, stabilizing the Crime Victims fund during recent declines. This legislation removes uncertainty and ensures victim assistance programs have the support necessary to keep their operations running. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement. “I was proud to support the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act of 2025. This is a common-sense solution that ensures critical support for millions of victims across the country without burdening taxpayers. By redirecting unobligated funds from fraudulent claims, we are able to continue to support those affected by violent crime. This bill will help keep doors open at child advocacy centers, domestic violence shelters, rape crisis centers, and other essential programs, ensuring that no victim is left without support.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-06-05T06:35:23Z,2026-06-05T06:36:42Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/delivering-wins-american-communities,Delivering Wins to American Communities,2026-01-13,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Congress has made steady progress towards full-year government funding. In November, President Trump signed the first three appropriations bills into law. Building off that momentum, the U.S. House of Representatives passed three more appropriations bills last Thursday. Following that big win, the Appropriations Committee took another step in moving full-year funding measures forward by introducing two more bills over the weekend. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, I am of course very proud to see the progress we are making. We are giving policy force, focusing on our priorities, and implementing the mandate of the American people. Through these bills, we are advancing President Trump’s golden age and ensuring the government remains open and working for the taxpayers. However, one of the most significant achievements of the appropriations bills, which are often not talked about enough, is the delivery of critical community projects nationwide. Last Spring, every member of the House was given the opportunity to participate in the annual appropriations process. Through something referred to as “community project funding,” we were able to request funding for specific projects in our communities, so long as the projects have a federal nexus and meet other requirements established by the law, House Rules, and the Appropriations Committee. So, now, as we move forward in passing funding legislation ahead of the January 30th deadline, we are seeing Members’ requests become law as part of these bills – an achievement we can all, no matter our political preferences, take pride in. I know that I, for one, can confidently say I am very proud to see what I have been able to secure for Oklahoma’s Fourth District through these appropriations bills. For example, in November, through the Military Construction appropriations legislation, I was able to secure funding for both Tinker Air Force Base and Fort Sill Army Installation. Then, just last week, I secured funding for the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office to acquire Rapid DNA technology systems that they have wanted for quite some time. Additionally, a critical $1.351 billion for the National Weather Service, including the National Weather Center in Norman, and $20.9 million for tornado severe storm research, including the NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory at the University of Oklahoma, was secured. Through the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, I secured funding for the Moore Public Works Authority Water Transmission Line Project and to support tribes throughout the Fourth District. From money for activities that lead to lower costs for rural homes and farms to projects at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and so much more, I can truly say these funding packages will make a difference in Oklahoma and in Members’ districts throughout the country – and there is so much more to be secured in the next six appropriations bills. So, as we continue to work to pass full-year funding for the government, I look forward to sending more appropriations bills to President Trump’s desk and I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting these critical pieces of legislation.",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-delivers-wins-fifth-congressional-district,Bice Delivers Wins for Fifth Congressional District,2026-01-08,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C – Today the House voted to advance a package containing three more appropriations bills, including the Commerce, Justice, Science, (CJS); Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act for the Fiscal Year 2026. This package continues the work of the Appropriations Committee as it seeks to get all twelve appropriations bills signed into law. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “This responsible package delivers real results for Oklahoma and the American people. These bills bolster our nuclear defense systems, reinforce water infrastructure, and restore American energy dominance. It also helps fight against the scourge of fentanyl, provides funding for emergency weather services, defends the Second Amendment and supports law enforcement. These bills also eliminate wasteful Biden-era polices that have held our country back while advancing pro-growth initiatives. I was proud to support this package which delivers tangible wins for Oklahoma families and look forward to working with my colleagues to pass the rest of the appropriations bills.” Bice Provisions Which Benefit Oklahoma’s Fifth Congressional District: Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Funding for Oklahoma Children’s Hospital Security Modernization Funding for the University of Central Oklahoma Forensic Science Institute Funding for the 911 Center and Logan County Radio Rehabilitation and Modernization project Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Funding for the Wewoka Wastewater Treatment Facility Funding for Konawa Water Lines Funding for Piedmont Water Distribution Lines Funding for Spencer Water Lines Funding for the Bethany Wastewater Lift System Funding for the Seminole Wastewater Lift Funding the Yukon Wastewater Treatment Facility Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-05-16T06:05:00Z,2026-05-16T06:06:37Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-new-defense-fellow-dc-office-staff,Cole Announces New Defense Fellow on D.C. Office Staff,2026-01-08,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the addition of Major Nate Horne to his Washington, D.C. office. Nate will serve as a defense fellow until the end of this year as part of the Department of War’s Congressional Fellowship Program. By trade, Major Horne is a Finance and Comptroller Army Officer who has served as a Budget Officer at Army Central, Army Pacific, and U.S. Cyber Command. In addition, Nate has received training, including completion of the Basic Officer Leadership Course and Captains Career Course at the Finance and Comptroller School at Ft. Jackson, SC, the Cold Weathers Leaders Course at the Northern Warfare Training Center in Alaska, and is a Certified Government Financial Manager and Certified Defense Financial Manager. He received a bachelor’s degree in business management from Colorado Technical University and will complete a master’s degree in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University in May 2026. “I am delighted to welcome Nate to my team and look forward to utilizing his knowledge and experience on defense related matters,” said Congressman Cole. “The Department of War’s Legislative Fellowship Program is a terrific way for him to sharpen his skills and learn the legislative process even more, and I am excited to see all that he learns and his growth throughout the year. I know he will serve the Fourth District well during his time in my office.” “It is an honor and privilege to serve at this level,” said Major Horne. “I am excited to represent the Department of War and work with Representative Cole and his incredible team in advocating for everyone in Oklahoma’s Fourth District and their interests.” About the Fellowship The Department of War’s Legislative Fellowship Program is a highly competitive program for top performing select service members and civilian employees to provide them with an in-person legislative experience. The program is executed by the Assistant Secretary of War for Legislative Affairs, who coordinates with the military departments to determine office placement. Chosen from numerous high performing applicants, fellows are vetted by their respective services, selecting those whom the departments feel would best represent the military to members of Congress and their staff. Eligible congressional offices are invited to apply for the program in August with a requested response in September and receive notification of selection November through December. Selected fellows begin their work in congressional offices for a period of no longer than one calendar year beginning each January. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-commerce-justice-science-energy-and-water-development-and,"Cole Votes in Favor of Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026",2026-01-08,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"January 8, 2026 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R. 6983, a three-bill funding package covering the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment appropriations measures for the fiscal year 2026. After voting in favor of the package, he released the following statement: “In November, President Trump set the tone by signing our first three-bill appropriations package into law. Now, today, in the House of Representatives, we built on that momentum” said Congressman Cole. “This funding package provides funding for countless critical programs that assist Americans every single day, strengthens our national security, cuts spending, lowers costs on the taxpayers, and delivers critical community projects nationwide.” “I am very proud of the difficult work that the entire Appropriations Committee, our Cardinals, and Republican Leadership has done to get this package passed today. The result of our hard work is clear – legislation that turns priorities into action and puts America first,” said Congressman Cole. Key Provisions in the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Increases funding to end the scourge of fentanyl and other illicit drugs. Levels the economic playing field for everyday Americans by holding other nations accountable for decades of unfair trade practices. Bolsters our national security by countering China’s increasing investments. Maintains longstanding Second Amendment riders. Maintains longstanding Hyde-like pro-life riders. Supports state and local law enforcement. Increases funding for the National Weather Service. Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Champions America’s nuclear deterrent. Prohibits the sale of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to the CCP. Prohibits access to U.S. nuclear weapons production facilities by Chinese and Russian citizens. Restores American energy dominance. Strongly funds cybersecurity efforts that enable a resilient, reliable, and secure electric grid. Eliminates Biden-era energy policies. Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Increases funding for oil and gas development to unleash American energy. Ensures funding to support wildland firefighter pay. Provides support for Tribal law enforcement. Increases funding for onshore oil and gas development and offshore conventional energy development. Exempts farmers and livestock producers from burdensome greenhouse gas permitting and reporting requirements. Eliminates funding for Environmental Justice. Protects access to public lands. Oklahoma Priorities/ Congressman Cole Secured in the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies $970,000 for Rapid DNA technology systems for the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office to process DNA evidence more efficiently. Increased resources to Federal agencies for McGirt-related needs. $1.351 billion for the National Weather Service, including the National Weather Center in Norman. 5% set-aside within the Crime Victims’ Fund made available for Tribal victims of crime. $4.5 million for Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys to prosecute federal crimes in Indian Country. $14.5 million for Tribal Special Criminal Jurisdiction Reimbursement Program, which reimburses Tribal governments for non-tribal citizens committing violent crime on Tribal land. $2 million for research on Violence Against Indian Women. $20.9 million for Tornado Severe Storm Research, including the NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory at OU. $30 million for NOAA’s national observational weather network providing critical information required for improved weather prediction and warnings. $1 million for increased staff capacity at the Southern Climate Impacts Planning Program at OU. $94 million for Weather Labs and Cooperative Institutes, including the Cooperative Institute for Severe and High-Impact Weather Research and Operations (CIWRO) at OU. $5 million in Office of Native American Business Development grants to native entities that provide business, financing, and technical assistance services to Tribes. $20 million for the Tribal Colleges and Universities STEM program. $105 million in grants for locating missing children, preventing child abduction, and provide technical training and assistance. $175 million for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program which supports the growth of small and mid-sized manufacturers through public-private partnership. Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies $75 million for the Office of Indian Energy Policy and Programs. $25 million to support research activities that lead to lower costs and increased deployment of distributed wind systems for rural homes, farms, and other applications. $20 million for atmospheric and severe weather research centers to improve weather predications and strengthen the resiliency of energy and other critical infrastructure. $10 million to establish a university-based methane monitoring data analytics center. $9.3 million for the Department of Energy’s Risk Based Data Management System to explore the rapid development of new technologies that use solid propellant fuel to generate gas and that drive hydraulic systems to shut off unwanted flows or blow outs of oil or gas from onshore or offshore wells. $6.3 million for the Tribal Energy Loan Guarantee Program. $24.4 million for Operations and Maintenance of the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. $700,000 for a USACE national assessment and working group to carry out managed aquifer recharge projects. Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies $66 million to support tribes impacted by the McGirt v. Oklahoma decision. $5 million for Moore Public Works Authority Water Transmission Line Construction Project. $8.05 billion for the Indian Health Service, including $33 million in increases and $5.3 billion in advance appropriations. $570.059 million for Bureau of Indian Affairs Public Safety and Justice Programs. $84.6 million for Indian Health Service professions. $18.5 million for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Initiative. $95.4 million for Urban Indian Health, which will help facilities, like the OKC Indian Clinic provide essential healthcare services to tribes. Language prioritizing research funding and building maintenance for EPA labs specializing in groundwater research, such as the Robert S. Kerr Environmental Research Center. $41 million for the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grants Program to help communities repair sewer and stormwater systems to upgrade them to better withstand future storms and natural disasters. $12.5 million for the National Park Foundation, which has supported projects such as those at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. $49 million for the North American Wetlands Conservation Fund. $2.6 million for National Land Remote Sensing Education, Outreach, and Research Grant. $65 million for the National Endowment for the Humanities Federal and State Partnerships. $30.7 million for non-profit organizations to provide technical assistance for improved water quality or safe drinking water, adequate wastewater to small systems, or individual private well owners. $26 million for Grassroots Rural and Small Community Water Systems Assistance. $1.8 million for Class VI regulator education and training programs. $16 million for the Water Resources Research Act. Protected and maintained funding for programs supporting tribes such as BIE Operations and Construction, Tribal Colleges and Universities, Indian Loan Guarantee Program, and Johnson O-Malley Assistance Grants. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4150,Hern Statement on ACA Subsidies Extension Bill,2026-01-08,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement on his vote against House Democrats’ unaffordable healthcare proposal. “We need to lower healthcare costs for all Americans, not just a few. This bill spends billions in taxpayer dollars on a COVID-era bailout for insurance companies, and recommitting three more years to a failed program won’t lower costs or expand care access for families. Instead, my Democrat colleagues should work with Republicans to advance real, long-term solutions to make healthcare more affordable for everyone, whether they’re on the exchange or an employer-sponsored plan. It’s time to put patients back in the driver's seat so they can choose the plan that works best for them.” In December, the House passed the Lower Health Care Premiums for All American Act, which improves coverage options, expands patient choice, increases transparency and competition in the healthcare system, and lowers costs for all Americans. Included in the bill was Rep. Hern’s Choice Arrangement Act. The Choice Arrangement Act helps small businesses offer healthcare options through tax-advantaged funds, strengthening employer-based coverage and empowering Americans to be in control of their healthcare decisions. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4149,"Hern Commends Longtime District Director, Announces Staff Changes",2026-01-02,2026,2026-01,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) announced changes to his D.C. and District staffs for the second session of the 119th Congress. Robert Aery will transition to the role of Senior Advisor and Counsel as he explores part-time professional opportunities outside the office. Aery joined Rep. Hern’s staff in 2018 as District Director and later as Deputy Chief of Staff in 2020. “Robert has been an essential part of our team, serving the people of Oklahoma’s First District with unwavering commitment and integrity,” said Rep. Hern. “His contributions have been integral to our team’s success over the past seven years. I’m grateful for his leadership and incredibly proud as he moves into this next phase of his career.” Jefferson Willis – Deputy Chief of Staff Willis has been on Rep. Hern’s legislative team since 2021, serving as Legislative Director since 2023 and covering the tax portfolio. Madison Johnston – District Director Johnston has been on Rep. Hern’s district team since 2022, starting as Field Representative and most recently as the Constituent Services and Outreach Director. Meg Maykoski – Senior Legislative Assistant Maykoski joined Rep. Hern’s team in 2023, serving as Legislative Assistant and covering the healthcare portfolio. Chase Gurey – Legislative Aide Gurey joined Rep. Hern’s team as Staff Assistant in 2023 and then as Legislative Correspondent. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1543,Congressman Josh Brecheen's 2025 Highlights,2025-12-29,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 29, 2025 Congressman Josh Brecheen's 2025 Highlights Washington, DC–As we reach the conclusion of Congressman Brecheen's third year in office, here's a recap of the top highlights from the year. Top Bills Introduced Healthy SNAP Act of 2025 -- this legislation would exclude certain junk foods from being purchased with SNAP benefits. USA First Act -- this legislation would transfer any unobligated funds previously appropriated to USAID to the Disaster Relief Fund under FEMA. DRIVE Act -- this legislation would prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) from mandating speed limiters on vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) above 26,000 pounds. Energy Freedom Act -- this legislation would repeal the more than 20 green energy tax subsidies created or expanded by the Biden Administration's Inflation Reduction Act. Top Oversight Activity Congressman Brecheen led 134 Republican Members of Congress in a public commitment to monitoring the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities in Syria, ensuring that the sanction repeal conditions found in the NDAA are upheld. Fox News wrote an exclusive on the statement. A copy of the full statement is available here. Congressman led a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi requesting a criminal investigation into the activities of Biden Administration Special Counsel, Jack Smith, and his grave violation of the Fourth Amendment during Operation Arctic Frost. The Blaze wrote an exclusive on the letter. A copy of the full letter is available here. By the Numbers Miles Traveled by our Staff for Visits, Meetings, Events, Speaking Engagements, and Town Halls: 85,137 Constituent Letters Responded To: 21,544 Visits, Meetings, or Events with Constituents, Businesses, and Community Leaders by our Field Representatives: 5,921 Commendation Letters Mailed: 1,521 Constituents Assisted with Casework: 571 Speaking Engagements by our Field Representatives: 120 Media Interviews by Congressman Brecheen: 106 In-Person Town Halls: 20 Telephone Town Halls: 1 Press Inquiries: kate.bryan@mail.house.gov ### Related News Congressman Josh Brecheen Introduces the Expedited Transparency Act March 18, 2026 | Posted in Press Releases Congressman Josh Brecheen Announces Service Academy Nominees November 13, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases Congressman Brecheen Cosponsors Impeachment Articles Against Judge Boasberg November 5, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases House Values Action Team Statement on Christian Persecution in Nigeria November 4, 2025 | Posted in News Hits",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:40Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-hails-passage-speed-act,Bice Hails Passage of SPEED Act,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the SPEED Act, major bipartisan energy permitting reform legislation. The bill updates the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), modernizing the federal permitting process to advance President Trump’s energy abundance agenda while continuing responsible environmental stewardship. Specifically, this legislation establishes a 150- day deadline for filing claims against a project, sets minimum review times for government agencies to complete environmental assessments and impact statements, and limits the scope of major federal actions to which NEPA would apply. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Many people are unfamiliar with how bureaucratic and outdated our current permitting system has become. Over the past few decades, review times for environmental impact statements have skyrocketed. In fact, some projects take more than four and a half years, longer than it takes to get a college degree. These delays prevent many energy projects from moving forward and make countless more economically unviable, ultimately increasing what you pay at the pump and your utility bills. The SPEED Act will modernize NEPA, streamlining the permitting process and returning the statute to its original purpose, lowering costs for American consumers.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-05-15T06:17:41Z,2026-05-15T06:18:51Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-legislation-lower-health-care-premiums,Bice Supports Legislation to lower Health Care Premiums,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Stephanie Bice supported the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act. The bill lowers premium costs through cost-sharing reduction payments. It also expands access to Association Health Plans, allowing small business owners to come together and purchase affordable health coverage for their employees. This bill brings needed transparency to the system, requiring pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to provide detailed pricing information on prescription drugs to empower small businesses to negotiate better deals and ultimately lower drug costs. Finally, the legislation protects small businesses from costly regulatory overreach. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “The Affordable Care Act is unaffordable, has produced perverse incentives, and was designed as a steppingstone to move the country toward a single-payer health care system controlled by the federal government. This has escalated in recent years, with insurance premiums increasing for every American. These government mandates and regulations have increased costs all the while lining the pockets of big insurance companies, whose profits have skyrocketed by 230%. Put simply, health insurance has become unaffordable and we need solutions. “The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act incentivizes workers to sign up for employer sponsored insurance and reduces premiums by expanding risk pools, allowing small businesses to come together to help employees. It is worth noting that in 2017, 196 House Democrats, many of whom are still in office, signed a letter supporting these exact same provisions. So we must ask, what has changed? This legislation seeks to lower costs by bringing much needed transparency to the cost of prescription drugs. It also requires pharmacy benefit managers to provide employers with detailed reporting on prescription drug spending, including rebates. ""The Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act gives Oklahomans a choice. This legislation will lower costs, estimating a reduction in premiums of 11% for ALL Americans, not just those utilizing the temporary Covid-era enhanced subsidies. These solutions are a first step that will help drive down insurance costs, seeking to make health care more affordable.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-05-08T05:46:43Z,2026-05-08T05:48:09Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-lower-health-care-premiums-all-americans-act,Cole Votes in Favor of the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act: “The underlying issue here is this: the Affordable Care Act is not affordable,” said Congressman Cole. “President Obama and the Democrats created a program Americans cannot afford, that works for big insurance companies, instead of patients, and that is filled with waste, fraud, and abuse. Now, as a result, House Republicans are trying to fix what has been broken through the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act.” “In stark contrast with the Left’s irresponsible proposal to extend Covid-era subsidies on top of the subsidies Obamacare already offers, this Republican solution offers a more productive and long-term fix to the healthcare crisis. Through five critical reforms, our legislation will broaden insurance options for employers, workers, and families, which will, in turn, drive down health insurance premium costs by at least 11 percent starting January 1, 2026,” said Congressman Cole. “At the end of the day, the American people deserve a health care system that puts them and their pocketbooks first – and this legislation does just that. I am proud to have voted in favor of this bill today, and I hope to see it move through the legislative process and be signed into law,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4141,"Hern Votes to Increase Healthcare Options, Lower Costs",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) voted to pass the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act, legislation that improves coverage options, expands patient choice, increases transparency and competition in the healthcare system, and lowers costs for all Americans. The package includes Rep. Hern’s Choice Arrangement Act, which makes it easier for employers to offer healthcare coverage through tax-advantaged funds and provides more options for Americans to choose a healthcare plan that works best for them. “Healthcare has become unaffordable for everyone,” said Rep. Hern. “All Americans – whether they’re on the exchange, an employer-sponsored plan, Medicare, or Medicaid – deserve better choices and lower premiums. This bill is a crucial step toward lowering prices, increasing transparency, and putting individuals in the driver’s seat when selecting their healthcare plan. These are real solutions to the skyrocketing costs driven by the Unaffordable Care Act that have left too many Americans behind. “I’m proud that my Choice Arrangement Act was included in this package. By helping small businesses offer healthcare options, we strengthen employer-based coverage, increase access to plans, and empower Americans to be in control of their healthcare decisions.” Prior to the bill’s passage, Rep. Hern spoke on the House Floor in support of the Lower Health Care Premiums for All Americans Act. Click here to watch. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-favor-national-defense-authorization-act-0,Cole Votes in Favor of National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Last night, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. This legislation authorizes $900.6 billion for our nation’s national defense in order to build a ready, capable, lethal fighting force to deter our adversaries and protect our country. After voting in favor of the bill, Congressman Cole released the following statement: “Peace through strength. This is a concept that has long been the foundation of American foreign policy. Furthermore, during this time when we are constantly facing threats from state sponsors of terror, foreign terrorist organizations, and other adversaries, peace through strength is a strategy we must continue to apply,” said Congressman Cole. “Last night, I cast my vote to do just that. The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA will revitalize the defense industrial base and defense acquisition system to ensure our warfighters are equipped with the latest technology and investment vehicles, restore lethality and warrior ethos to our military, secure America’s borders, strengthen strategic deterrence, improve servicemember quality of life, build the overmatch we need to deter the Chinese, and more – all while saving the taxpayers nearly $20 billion through cuts to woke DEI policies at the Department of War,” said Congressman Cole. “The United States House of Representatives has now made it crystal clear: our brave men and women in uniform are prepared and will not allow terrorists or our adversaries to win,” said Congressman Cole. Oklahoma Wins in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act: Prohibits the availability of funds for contract termination or production line shutdown for the E-7A Wedgetail aircraft. Prohibits E-3 retirement without a plan submitted to defense committees ensuring no capability gaps or until E-7s are procured. $9.3 million in design funds for Fort Sill’s Automated-Aided Instruction Building. $15 million for Bomber Agile Common Hangar at Tinker Air Force Base. $54 million for a Child Development Center at Tinker Air Force Base. $10 million for E-7 Squad Operations Center at Tinker Air Force Base. Other Wins in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act: Secures a 3.8 percent pay raise for our troops. Fully funds the Golden Dome, F-47, submarines, and warships. Revitalizes the defense industrial base by growing manufacturing jobs in America. Supports Department of Homeland Security border security efforts. Promotes energy independence and new nuclear power technology. Ends Left-wing ideology, wokeism, and DEI in the military and DoW. Advances efforts to revitalize American shipbuilding. Prepares our military for a potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-supports-passage-ndaa,Bice Supports Passage of NDAA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the FY26 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This legislation fulfills an agenda of “Peace Through Strength” and builds off last-year’s work which focused on improving the quality of life for our service members. It also reorients our military towards its core mission, being a lethal and effective fighting force that can protect our nation. The FY26 NDAA also focuses on reforming our slow, outdated, and broken acquisition system. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “I was proud to support this year’s National Defense Authorization Act. This bipartisan legislation codifies fifteen of President Trump’s executive orders and includes more than thirty legislative proposals requested by this Administration. Not only does this year’s NDAA focus on increasing the quality of life for our servicemembers, it also contains provisions that will reduce burdensome red tape and streamline the development and delivery of next generation capabilities that our warfighters need to keep pace with near-peer adversaries like China and Russia. Ultimately, this legislation supports our troops, protects our national security, and ensures our warfighters have the resources they need to be an efficient fighting force with cutting edge technologies.” Specific Provisions within the NDAA Increases troop pay by 3.8% for all servicemembers Supports Rep. Bice’s initiative to protect military parental leave and make it more flexible for servicemembers Provides resources for National Guard troops stationed at the southern border Prohibits the closure of the E-7A Wedgetail production line Contains 17 provisions from the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, which Rep. Bice serves as a Commissioner on, including: Requiring the Department to develop a biotechnology strategy to govern the national security implications of emerging biotechnologies Establishing a Biotechnology Management Office Establishing new biotech leads across the intelligence agencies Expanding intelligence gathering about China’s efforts to advance its own biotech interests Authorizes funding for essential military construction projects and expands logistics capabilities in the Indo-Pacific to bolster our forces Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-04-25T05:38:36Z,2026-04-25T05:40:21Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4140,Hern Backs FY26 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after voting to pass the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “The FY26 NDAA affirms our commitment to securing peace through strength around the world under our Commander-in-Chief, President Trump. We’re refocusing our military on meritocracy, readiness, and deterrence to ensure we are the most lethal fighting force in the world. Our troops make incredible sacrifices, which is why this year’s NDAA also improves servicemembers’ quality of life through a 3.8% pay raise and improving housing, education, and childcare for military families. I look forward to sending this critical piece of legislation to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.” ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4139,Hern Bill Protecting Children from CCP Propaganda Passes House,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern’s (OK-01) PROTECT Our Kids Act passed the House. This bill prohibits federal education funding for any elementary or secondary school that continues to host a Confucius Classroom – a Chinese language or cultural program that is supported by the CCP. Schools will be notified of these new requirements and given guidance for how to comply. This legislation is only concerned with programs funded or supported by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and does not include language programs in schools that do not partner with the CCP. “Congress has done the work to crack down on CCP propaganda and Confucius Institutes at our universities,” said Rep. Hern. “It’s time we do the same for our elementary and secondary schools. My PROTECT Our Kids Act ensures that no taxpayer dollars go to K-12 schools that continue to allow CCP-funded programs designed to brainwash our children. This is commonsense legislation, and I’m proud to have it advance out of the House.” Prior to its passage, Rep. Hern spoke on the House floor in support of the PROTECT Our Kids Act. Click here to watch. Read the full bill text here. ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/recapping-our-legislative-week,Recapping our Legislative Week,2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.-After the record long, Democrat-driven shutdown, the House advanced major pieces of legislation to address energy, crime, and deregulation. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “The U.S. House of Representatives remains committed to unleashing American energy production, cutting burdensome and unnecessary regulation, and protecting Americans from violent crime. A huge piece of this is the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act, which moves the LNG export permitting process away from political appointees and places it with neutral experts at FERC. This protects American energy producers from the kind of political interference we saw under President Biden, who froze LNG export permits and threatened thousands of jobs. Together, with other deregulation efforts, these bills are meaningful steps toward strengthening American energy security. “The House also advanced strong public safety legislation to combat crime, especially in our Nation’s capital. Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, violent crime is down 22 percent, carjackings are down 83 percent, and homicides are down 29 percent. “This was a productive legislative week, and I am encouraged by what we were able to accomplish. I will continue fighting for Oklahoma’s families, for American energy dominance, for safer communities, and for greater transparency in the government.” Congresswoman Bice spoke on the House Floor in support of H.R. 1949. Her remarks can be viewed here. Background: H.R. 1949 the Unlocking our Domestic LNG Potential Act- Lifts restrictions on the import and export of natural gas and streamlines the permitting process by getting rid of the requirement for the DOE to authorize exports and giving FERC total authority over the approval process, facilitating American energy dominance and lowering costs. H.J. Res. 13- Overturns the ban on oil and gas leasing across 1.16 million acres in ANWR, an area with an estimated 10.4 billion barrels of recoverable oil. H.J. Res. 130- Reverses the freeze on future coal leasing in Wyoming’s Powder River Basin, protecting jobs and more than 260 million dollars in projected federal revenue. H.J. Res 80- Blocks the plan that shut off twelve million acres in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska from future development. H.R. 3109 the REFINER Act- Directs the Department of Energy to examine refinery capacity, identify risks, and recommend steps to strengthen America’s refining sector. H.R. 5107 the CLEAN DC Act- Rolls back harmful parts of the 2022 DC policing law that limited officers and weakened accountability, restoring commonsense tools law enforcement needs. H.R. 5214 the DC Cash Bail Reform Act- Ends dangerous “zero bail” practices by requiring pre-trail detention for violent offenders and reinstating cash bail for those who threaten public safety. Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-04-17T05:47:03Z,2026-04-17T05:48:33Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-announces-2026-military-academy-nominations,Cole Announces 2026 Military Academy Nominations,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 18, 2025 | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the names of the 2026 Service Academy Nominees from Oklahoma’s Fourth District, who will be considered for a full offer appointment to either the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, or the U.S. Naval Academy. The congressional nomination process for these academies is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated for academic performance and standing, including class rank, SAT/ACT scores, and school records. Other criteria considered by Congressman Cole and the recommendation panel include athletics, physical fitness, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and leadership potential. Upon congressional nomination, students become eligible for consideration to receive an appointment to the service academy (or academies) to which they applied. “The want to serve our country in uniform is deserving of all our respect,” said Congressman Cole. “I am honored to recommend these distinguished young men and women from the Fourth District for appointment to one of our nation’s esteemed military academies. They are truly so impressive and, regardless of what path they end up taking, I am sure that each one of them have bright futures ahead of them.” The list below includes the names and high school information of the students, as well as the academies to which they have been nominated. Many of the students received nominations to multiple academies. Note that applications are still being considered by the selection committee for admission at the various academies. U.S. Air Force Academy Jax Birth – Ardmore High School Julianna Chesnut – Rush Springs High School Braden Evans - MacArthur Senior High School Brandon Heckethorn – Lone Grove High School Christopher Hilz – Lawton High School Jonah House – Lone Grove High School Tessa Inman – Lindsay High School Simon Marchesano – Moore High School Jakob Reece - Epic Charter School Ezekiel Stoda – Blanchard High School Nathan Walls – Blanchard High School Gregory Williams – Norman North High School Nicklas Wolfgram – Bridge Creek High School United States Merchant Marine Academy Julianna Chesnut – Rush Springs High School Joseph McCormick – McCormick Home School U.S. Military Academy at West Point Julianna Chesnut – Rush Springs High School Jesse-Anne Oberle – Seton Home Study School Ezekiel Stoda – Blanchard High School Gage Streater – Byng High School U.S. Naval Academy Jax Birth – Ardmore High School Julianna Chesnut – Rush Springs High School Christopher Hilz – Lawton High School Stephen Kerl – Midwest City High School Simon Marchesano – Moore High School Joseph McCormick – McCormick Home School Gracie Ragland – Byng High School Ezekiel Stoda – Blanchard High School Gage Streater – Byng High School Nathan Walls – Blanchard High School Gabriel Ward – Mount Saint Mary Catholic High School Gregory Williams – Norman North High School ###",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1516,Congressman Josh Brecheen Announces Service Academy Nominees,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Josh Brecheen announced the students from Oklahoma's 2nd Congressional District who have been nominated to the United States Service Academies. United States Naval Academy Hudson Pollard (Checotah, OK) United States Military Academy Max Cunningham (Locust Grove, OK) United States Air Force Academy Cannon Ysbrand (Bokoshe, OK) Michael Robertson (Claremore, OK) United States Merchant Marine Academy Brian Jones (Owasso, OK)",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:39Z https://cole.house.gov/media/press-releases/cole-votes-reopen-government,Cole Votes to Reopen the Government,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Tom Cole,C001053,cole.house.gov,cole,https://cole.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165 Washington, D.C.- Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after voting in favor of reopening the government: “History reminds us that shutdowns never change the outcome — only the cost paid by the American people. This Democrat-led crisis proved just that. Minority Leaders Jeffries and Schumer have inflicted real pain across the nation for weeks. And for what? The funding extension we passed today reflects our position from the start. Democrats manufactured chaos, delayed paychecks, and disrupted vital services — only to end up exactly where Republicans, President Trump, and the American people said we should be all along. Forty-three days later, they gained nothing but the damage they caused: missed paychecks, lapsed nutrition assistance, stalled programs, and shaken public trust. Today, that ends. We have reopened the government, restored stability, and will continue the hard work of delivering full-year appropriations through a transparent, line-by-line process. I hope Democrats remember this lesson: true courage is taking responsible action for the nation even when politics makes it inconvenient,” said Congressman Cole. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases/bice-votes-end-democrat-shutdown,Bice Votes to End Democrat Shutdown,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Stephanie I. Bice,B000740,bice.house.gov,bice,https://bice.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.- Today, the U.S. House of Representatives voted on legislation which put an end to the government shutdown. This package includes a clean continuing resolution which funds the government through January 30, 2026, as well as three appropriations bills which provide full fiscal year funding for Agriculture, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. These bills will ensure SNAP, WIC, and the VA are operating at full capacity through the end of the Fiscal Year. Congresswoman Bice issued the following statement: “Today, I voted to end the Democrat driven shutdown, the longest in history. This legislation responsibly reopens the government, fully funds three appropriations bills, and ensures that all federal employees who have been forced to work without pay will receive compensation. The last 43 days has been horrible for the country, and sadly it was all avoidable. Democrats chose to hold the American people hostage for political purposes. It is also important to note that every Democrat who voted against this legislation voted against providing funding for veterans, farmers, and rural communities. Legislation to keep the government open should have been passed weeks ago.” Contact: Wesley Harkins Phone: (202) 225-2132",1,2026-04-04T05:28:40Z,2026-04-04T05:30:10Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1527,Congressman Brecheen's Statement on Reopening the Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington–Today, Congressman Brecheen released the following statement regarding his vote to reopen the government. ""Today, I voted to end the Schumer Shutdown and reopen the government. The continuing resolution (CR) that 216 of my Republican and 6 of my Democrat colleagues and I voted for will largely maintain current funding levels through January 30th, 2026. We also passed three appropriations bills tied to the CR—MilConVA, Agriculture, and Legislative Branch. While CRs are never optimal, this was a necessary step for reopening the government, keeping spending as low as possible, and resuming the process of passing the annual appropriations bills,"" said Congressman Josh Brecheen. Press Inquiries: kate.bryan@mail.house.gov ###",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:39Z https://hern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4137,Hern Votes to Reopen Government,2025-11-12,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Kevin Hern,H001082,hern.house.gov,hern,https://hern.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Kevin Hern (OK-01) released the following statement after voting for the amended Continuing Resolution (CR) to end the Democrat-led shutdown and reopen the government: “For 43 days, Democrats in Congress held government funding hostage at the expense of the American people. Back on September 17th, House Republicans passed a clean CR to keep the government open. Since then, we have remained committed to having an open government so our troops and federal employees can receive their paychecks, SNAP recipients can put food on their tables, and efficient air travel can be restored. Passage of today’s CR ends the disastrous Democrat Shutdown, and now House Republicans can get back to work delivering real results for hardworking families.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1520,Congressman Brecheen on Securing Our Border,2025-11-10,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington--Today, Congressman Josh Brecheen released a statement on our increasingly secure border. ""Under the Biden Administration, there were 2.9 million nationwide illegal alien encounters during last year alone. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem's leadership, this number has reach a sixth month low with US Border Patrol agents releasing ZERO illegal aliens back into America. This is great news!!!"" said Congressman Josh Brecheen. Congressman Brecheen Releases Statement Against Democrat Plan to Fund Illegal Alien Healthcare September 30, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases Congressman Brecheen Echos DHS Message to Illegal Aliens July 29, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases New York Post | Op-Ed: How ‘charities,’ funded by your tax dollars, helped break immigration law July 15, 2025 | Posted in News Hits Congressman Brecheen Statement on Kilmar Abrego Garcia's Deportation April 17, 2025 | Posted in Press Releases",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:39Z https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1517,Congressman Brecheen Cosponsors Impeachment Articles Against Judge Boasberg,2025-11-05,2025,2025-11,Republican,House,OK,Josh Brecheen,B001317,brecheen.house.gov,brecheen,https://brecheen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington—Today, Congressman Brecheen released a statement regarding cosponsoring Articles of Impeachment against radial Judge James Boasberg. ""I believe it is crucial for Congress to take every legal action available to restore the American people's faith in our justice system. This begins with getting rid of the radicals who take advantage of their positions within the Courts,"" said Congressman Josh Brecheen. To read the Articles of Impeachment, click here.",1,2026-04-07T14:30:38Z,2026-04-07T14:34:39Z