Cole Statement on House Vote to End Democrat Shutdown and Fully Fund Homeland Security

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole’s (OK-04) legislation, H.R. 7744, which is second time legislation to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and protect the nation’s border, passed the House of Representatives. After the legislation passed, Congressman Cole released the following statement:

“The Constitution places the safety and security of the American people at the center of the federal government’s responsibilities. It is a duty I don’t take lightly,” said Congressman Cole. “Amidst rising global tensions and natural disaster possibilities, jeopardizing security operations and emergency preparedness is the last thing anyone should be doing. Yet, Democrats have kept the Department of Homeland Security shuttered for weeks – and again voted to keep it that way.”

“They are actively choosing to deny resources to the very people responsible for protecting the American homeland. Cybersecurity operations are at limited capacity, as adversaries like Iran, Russia, and China seek to exploit infrastructure vulnerabilities. Training for first responders has been canceled. FEMA grants – utilized by state and local entities to ensure safety and combat terrorism – can’t be accessed. TSA officers are being forced to work through the shutdown while missing paychecks. Coast Guard men and women, including those in harm’s way in Bahrain, are completing missions without full resources behind them. Even security preparations to keep attendees safe at the America 250 celebrations, the FIFA World Cup, the LA2028 Olympics, and more face disruptions. These impacts are not political or hyperbole. They are the direct cost of Democrats’ decision to play politics with the safeguards of this country,” said Congressman Cole.

“My priority is serving and protecting Oklahomans and all Americans, which is why I voted again today to pass full-year DHS funding. No selective resourcing – full operational funding for the Department of Homeland Security and the personnel who stand watch over this nation every day. Despite bipartisan majorities in both chambers, a small minority of Democrats continue to hold this funding hostage. However, let me be clear: shielding the homeland should never be treated as a political bargaining chip,” said Congressman Cole.