Cole Statement on 25th Amendment Resolution

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) issued the following statement after he voted against H. Res. 21, a resolution related to Section 4 of the 25th Amendment.

"The violent and destructive events of Wednesday, January 6, 2021, will forever represent a dark stain in American history. I strongly condemn the lawless perpetrators of the siege on our United States Capitol. In the days ahead, all of those involved must be held accountable for their crimes and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. And I remain committed to ensuring justice is served.

"The American people are hurting right now. Indeed, I have never seen divisions run sharper and deeper than any other period in my lifetime. Congress will grapple with the consequences of the fateful day last week for months and years to come, and I am hopeful we will ultimately emerge stronger and more unified. However, the resolution passed in the House this evening does not pave the needed pathway toward healing and reconciliation. Instead, it sows greater division.

"To be clear, the legislative branch has no role in forcing Vice President Mike Pence and the Cabinet to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove President Donald Trump from office. Considering the vice president's sound judgment and spotless record in carrying out his constitutional oath of office, I trust him to make that call when or if he deems it necessary."