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Congressman Tom Cole

Representing the 4th District of Oklahoma

Foreign Affairs

From increasing tension on the Korean Peninsula, to the acts of Russian aggression in the sovereign country of Ukraine, the world has become an increasingly dangerous place for freedom and democracy. While much of the power to conduct foreign affairs is granted to the president by the U.S. Constitution, Congress can and should still shape foreign policy and play a vital role in ensuring the world remains a safe place and that our citizens are protected from harm.
 
For example, Congress maintains control over the “purse strings” and funds our national defense and foreign assistance. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand how foreign assistance is used to support American values all over the world. On average, about one percent of foreign aid is provided as direct budget support (cash) to foreign governments. The remainder of aid is given in the form of expert technical advice, training, equipment, vaccines, food, educational exchanges and applied research. Much of the work done by America and its citizens internationally is crucial to lifting developing countries out of poverty and promoting long-term development.
 
Additionally, through the appropriations process, Congress can help ensure that funding goes to countries to build stability and counter international threats. Approximately 1.3 percent of the total federal budget is designated for foreign assistance from all federal sources. Aid that promotes global prosperity, democracy and rule of law, economic growth and humanitarian interests reflects American values and global leadership.

More on Foreign Affairs

Reaffirming American Strength Through Sanctions

August 7, 2017 Weekly Columns
In recent years, the geopolitical landscape has dramatically shifted, with past threats reemerging. After nearly a decade shying away from the world stage, hostile regimes feel emboldened and are threatening our safety and way of life. As congressional investigations continue to look into the actions of bad actors around the world, Congress must take action to protect the safety and security of the American people.
 

A Decision on North Korea

July 10, 2017 Weekly Columns
For more than fifty years the United States has had a contentious and adverse relationship with North Korea. Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, we have maintained a military presence in South Korea and have considered South Korea as a strong ally in the region.
 

Trump's Leadership on the Global Stage

May 29, 2017 Weekly Columns

Last week, Donald Trump wrapped up his first foreign trip as President of the United States. His travels took him to the centers of the world's three predominant monotheistic religions, at each of which the President mixed traditional diplomacy with his own unique approach to politics and public policy.

Cole Statement on U.S. Abstention on UN Security Council Anti-Israel Resolution

December 23, 2016 Press Release
Norman, OK – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after the United States abstained from vetoing its vote in allowing the passage of the United Nations Security Council resolution to condemn Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank.
 
"This action was a shameful abandonment of a long time ally that has been routinely berated and attacked by the hostile majority in the UN General Assembly," said Cole. "The action was made worse by Ambassador Powers’ gratuitous insults to the current government of Israel."

Cole Supports Nomination of Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State

December 13, 2016 Press Release
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after President-Elect Trump nominated Rex Tillerson to serve as Secretary of State for the next Administration. Tillerson is currently the CEO and Chairman of ExxonMobil Corporation.
 
“Rex Tillerson is an excellent choice to be the Secretary of State. He has already proven his diplomatic and management skills as the CEO of ExxonMobil, and I am extremely impressed with his strong leadership background,” said Cole.
 

Putin on the Prowl

April 25, 2016 Weekly Columns

The world has rightfully taken notice of Russia’s role in the violence that is visibly escalating in the Middle East at the hands of ISIS. However, that unrest is not the only cause for international concern. More than two years after Russia forcibly annexed Crimea, it maintains a violent and aggressive presence in East Ukraine. With behavior that chillingly harkens back to the Cold War era, it is becoming increasingly clear that Russia won’t stop trying to forcibly broaden its territorial reach in an effort to reclaim its superpower status.

Caving In, Again

April 11, 2016 Weekly Columns

Since the Iran nuclear agreement was announced last year, the terrorist regime has made it abundantly clear that it has no intention of keeping its end of what was already a very weak agreement. Tellingly, Iran has demonstrated contempt for the United States and the Obama Administration by testing ballistic missiles suited for nuclear warheads and openly abusing human rights. 

Cole Condemns Terrorist Attacks in Brussels

March 22, 2016 Press Release
Washington, DC – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement in response to the tragic terrorist attacks today in Brussels, Belgium.

Enough is Enough

February 8, 2016 Weekly Columns

Clearly, the threat posed by ISIS/ISIL in the Middle East isn’t diminishing and the need to do something to protect the United States and our friends abroad is more urgent than ever. Considering the escalating conflict in the area occupied by the terrorist group, attacks against our allies and direct threats surfacing in America, it is past time for thoughtful debate to take place, a clear strategy to be agreed upon and decisive action to be taken to destroy this barbaric enemy.

Cole Supports Iran Terror Finance Transparency Act

February 3, 2016 Press Release
Washington, DC – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released the following statement after he supported H.R. 3662, the Iran Terror Finance Transparency Act. In response to the president’s implementation of the Iran nuclear agreement, the legislation passed yesterday prevents Iranian individuals and groups supportive of terrorism and the regime’s ballistic program from getting sanctions relief.

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