Media

Throughout the month of August, I’ve had a full schedule traveling across the Fourth District, which has given me the opportunity to engage with my constituents in a variety of settings. Whether brought together by a town hall meeting, chamber of commerce gathering or scheduled visit to a local business, it comes as no surprise that an issue of common concern is the future prosperity of Main Street. Due to an increasingly burdensome regulatory environment, many who work for or own a small business fear for its survival.

The Oklahoman - Editorial Board

Under Republican control of Congress, lawmakers have advanced modest but sensible proposals that were previously stymied under Democratic control. Yet many conservative activists decry this as a do-nothing Congress.

The Oklahoman - Chris Casteel

The annual budget deficit will be the lowest since 2007, but the federal government's spending and accumulated debt are still heading to dangerous levels, the Congressional Budget Office reported Tuesday.

With about five weeks remaining in the federal fiscal year, the CBO is estimating a deficit of $426 billion. That would be $59 billion below the 2014 shortfall.

Over the last few weeks in town hall meetings and other visits across the Fourth District, I’ve heard my constituents voice their concerns about a variety of issues. But by far, the common issue that troubles the vast majority is the proposed nuclear deal negotiated with Iran by the Obama Administration. Like many of my constituents, I am disturbed by what I’ve heard, seen and learned about the agreement. With a vote expected in Congress next month, I remain strongly opposed to approving the deal.

Ada News - Eric Swanson

Lawmakers have floated several proposals for fixing Social Security, such as raising the eligibility age and increasing the income levels subject to Social Security taxes, U.S. Rep. Tom Cole said Thursday.

Cole also said he was optimistic that Congress would find a solution to Social Security’s financial woes.

“I think in the end, the public will force people to the table,” he said.

CQ Roll Call - John Bennett

For months, House Republicans lacked a voice on a measure to authorize military operations against the Islamic State. As he had on other issues, Tom Cole sensed his party was adrift. So earlier this year he did what came naturally--he reached across the aisle.