Cole Withdraws from Appropriations Race, Secures Backing for Post in 111th Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-4) announced today that he withdrew his name from the Appropriations race shortly before the Steering Committee meeting. The Steering Committee met this afternoon to select a replacement on the House Appropriations Committee following the departure of Roger Wicker.

"Today I withdrew my candidacy for a seat on the Appropriations Committee," Congressman Cole said. "While I've made no secret of my desire to serve on this Committee, I consider myself a team player. The Minority Leader asked me to step aside while I focus on my duties as a member of Republican leadership. I believe this was the best decision at the appropriate time for the entire Conference."

"Tom Cole has once again demonstrated he’s willing to let his own interests take a back seat to those of his Republican colleagues when it will help our team," said Republican Leader John Boehner. "This quality of selflessness is the mark of a true leader. I'm grateful for Tom’s willingness to make sacrifices for our Conference. I’m proud and honored to serve with him, and I've pledged to support him for an appropriations seat next January, when I expect we will mark the first month of a new Republican majority in the House."

"The Minority Leader's commitment to support my bid for a seat on the Appropriations Committee in the 111th Congress made this an easy decision," Cole said. "I look forward to continuing my work on the Armed Services Committee and the Natural Resources Committee for the duration of the 110th Congress."

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