I want to begin by complimenting my good friend, the ranking member of the full Appropriations Committee. She has bargained with us throughout this process in good faith, and it has been a pleasure to work with her. I have often been quoted, and I will say it here on the House floor, you can trust Rosa DeLauro. When she gives you her word, she keeps her word. We have no complaint at all with our friends on the other side of the aisle in the House and certainly not with our distinguished ranking member.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+40R shift +6$2.4M raised
Tom Cole
Representative · Oklahoma · Republican
Tom Cole
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 9770, the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2027. This Congress has a constitutional duty to fund the government. If Article I teaches us anything, it is that governing means doing the work, not waiting for a crisis. It is a responsibility I have never viewed as optional and one I have remained committed to honoring through regular order. Over the last year, Mr. Speaker, the House Committee on Appropriations has acted to fulfill our fiscal year 2027 responsibilities.
The fiscal year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs bill makes a clear statement about American leadership: We will engage where it matters. We will invest where it counts. We will demand accountability for every dollar spent. The legislation before us today, Mr. Chairman, implements a clear- eyed and unapologetic approach to our security and democracy efforts. It leaves no doubt about our Nation's posture. America will not be passive or simply write blank checks. Every investment we make must advance U.S.
Biography
Tom Cole, a member of the Chickasaw Nation and former small business owner, has represented Oklahoma’s 4th congressional district in the U.S. House since 2003. Known for his work on budgetary policy, Native American affairs, and military support, Cole has played a key role on the House Appropriations Committee, including serving as Chair of its Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. He has championed legislation to increase funding for tribal health programs and strengthen military installations in Oklahoma. Cole is recognized for his pragmatic approach and deep engagement with the needs of his district, particularly in advocating for rural communities and tribal governments.
Education
- Ph.D. in British History, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK1984
- M.A. in British History, Yale University, New Haven, CT1974
- B.A. in History, Grinnell College, Grinnell, IA1971
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2003-PresentRepresenting Oklahoma's 4th district
Chief of Staff, Republican National Committee
1999–2001Secretary, Oklahoma Office of the secretary of State
1995–99Member, Oklahoma Senate
1988–91College Professor of History and Politics
President, Cole Hargrave Snodgrass & Associates (political Consulting Firm)
Chairman/executive Director, Oklahoma Republican Party
Policy Focus
Congress30%
Economics and Public Finance19%
Native Americans17%
Health9%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Tom Cole's record in Congress.
Native American Advocacy
Championed legislation supporting tribal sovereignty and increased federal funding for Native American health and education programs.
Military Base Funding
Secured federal investments for Tinker Air Force Base and other military installations in Oklahoma.
National Institutes of Health Funding
Helped lead bipartisan efforts to increase funding for the National Institutes of Health as a senior appropriator.
Disaster Recovery Assistance
Facilitated federal disaster aid for Oklahoma communities impacted by tornadoes and severe weather events.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on AppropriationsChair
Rep. Tom Cole FAQ
Reach Oklahoma Lawmakers
Representative Cole focuses on Congress, Economics and Public Finance and Native Americans. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Oklahoma's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.
Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.
Start a Campaign