Capitol Hill Recap With Congressman Tom Cole

Last November, the American people gave Washington a mandate when they overwhelmingly voted for change. Seventy-seven million Americans made it very clear to us that they wanted a secure border, the resurgence of American energy dominance, lower taxes, a lethal military focused on warfighting instead of woke initiatives, and a more efficient federal government that roots out fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer dollars – essentially the platform that President Trump ran on.

Now, Congress has helped to deliver on these promises. The One Big Beautiful Bill will secure our border and finally complete the border wall, unleash our domestic energy potential, and make generational investments in our national security. This legislation makes the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts permanent, providing lasting relief to families, workers, and small businesses and protecting the average taxpayer from the largest tax hike in history. Additionally, despite the dishonest fearmongering pushed by Democrats and far-Left media, the One Big Beautiful Bill strengthens, secures, and sustains Medicaid by reestablishing it as a program that provides vital healthcare to the most vulnerable Americans.

After passing this bill through Congress, it headed to the White House where President Trump signed it into law on July 4th, America’s birthday, and officially delivered the result the American people voted for.

Voted to Restore American Military Strength

America’s military ensures that the call of duty never echoes unanswered – and the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act, that I voted in favor of just a few weeks ago, reflects that same unwavering commitment to our national security and the heroes in uniform who defend it.

This legislation ensures our troops can deter, fight, and win. It includes strategic investments that restore American military strength, accelerate innovation, and reinforce peace through strength. The bill also bolsters U.S. industrial supply chains, delivers next-generation weapons and assets, and includes a well-earned pay raise for our troops.

Each allocation in the Defense Appropriations Act upholds warrior ethos, restores deterrence, and ensures our forces remain unmatched. I am proud of this bill, as it truly ensures an America First defense.

Supported Holding Washington Accountable

Responsible governance means prioritizing fiscal sanity and holding Washington accountable. Just as everyday Americans make tough choices and cut costs, so should the government.

This is why I voted in favor of the Recissions Package earlier this month, which will advance accountability and save hard-earned taxpayer dollars. It is another step in fulfilling the promise President Trump and House Republicans made to the American people – to change the trajectory of our fiscal glide path and restore discipline across federal agencies.

Taken as a whole, this Recissions Package reflects a shared understanding that the status quo cannot remain, and I am steadfast in my support of advancing that comprehensive mission. This is just the start, as we will continue to reevaluate federal spending and target investments where they are needed most.

Voted to Aid Military Families and Veterans

Earlier this summer, I voted in favor of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

This legislation puts service and strength first – supporting U.S. veterans, military families, and base readiness. It fully funds veteran health care and benefits, marking enhanced investments under President Trump. It also strengthens the quality of life for the troops and their loved ones through housing and childcare resources, as well as reaffirms our commitment to peace through strength by providing for military base infrastructure and readiness efforts.

In conclusion, the Mil-Con, VA, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act reflects the promise we owe our heroes – past and present. In every aspect, by passing this legislation, we are upholding America’s values by honoring those who have served and those who still stand ready to defend our freedom.

Supported President Trump’s Decision to Strike Iran

When President Trump decided to conduct airstrikes in Iran, it prevented a lethal weapon and war.

After giving every chance to negotiate a solution, President Trump ended years of appeasement that emboldened the Iranian regime and its evil mullahs, the leading state sponsor of terrorism. It was an important and necessary step to neutralize a direct nuclear threat to regional and world peace and stability. It dramatically reduced the risk to America, our troops, and our steadfast ally, Israel.

The United States will always stand resolutely against terrorism and aggression. The Iranian regime has been disingenuous and unreliable – we had no choice but to act. In the face of threats, you must meet them with strength – that is how peace is kept.

There is no greater force for freedom and stability than the United States. God bless our troops and our nation.

Welcomed DoD Secretary Pete Hegseth to the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee

It was great to welcome Department of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to the House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee earlier this summer, as we are living in a time of significant global uncertainty.

The threats facing America are diverse and evolving and therefore demand a strong, agile, and effectively funded DoD. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, it is a priority of mine to do this by not only ensuring that our troops are fully equipped, trained, and prepared to meet any challenge, but also addressing the modernization of our military capabilities in a time when the nature of war is constantly shifting with new technologies.

It was a pleasure to welcome Secretary Hegseth to the Subcommittee, as I am committed to working with him to ensure a strong defense. At the very least, we owe it to our brave men and women in uniform.

Stay Informed

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In the meantime, if you have any questions or need assistance with a casework matter, my staff is available to help. Just call my office at (405) 329-6500, and my staff will be ready to assist.

Sincerely,

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