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WASHINGTON, D.C. – US Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK) has been elected as the new chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. The committee, in addition to 12 other subcommittees, is responsible for addressing budget requests and needs for federal agencies.
In a statement, Rep. Cole stated, “I am honored to be chosen by the Republican Steering Committee to succeed Congresswoman Kay Granger as Chair of the House Appropriations Committee.” Cole was selected to fill the position after Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) announced she was stepping down three weeks ago.
“It means a great deal to have the confidence of these well-respected members, and I am deeply humbled to be entrusted with this duty.” The statement continues, “There is substantial work to be done, and I care deeply about our mission.”
First elected in 2003, Cole represents Oklahoma’s 4th Congressional District, which includes Norman and the surrounding towns. In addition to his new chair appointment, he also serves on the House Rules Committee. Cole is among the 2017 class of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
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In addition to the presidential election, the 2024 ballot will also host Oklahoma’s federal and state positions. Several Republican candidates have filed for Cole’s seat and will face off in the June primary. However, his incumbency will likely work in his favor.
Cole’s Objection to 2020 Election Results
The 2020 presidential election reached historic levels when Donald Trump joined the list of nine other presidents who failed to secure a second term. Rep. Tom Cole, alongside fellow Oklahoma Republican House members Stephanie Bice, Kevin Hern, and Markwayne Mullin, objected to the results.
Mere hours before the January 6 insurrection took place, Rep. Cole released the following statement.
“On behalf of my constituents, I am casting my vote against certification of the Electoral College’s count of the presidential election results. The greatest function of a representative is being elected to represent the views of one’s constituency. I have been closely studying this issue and listening intently to what my constituents have to say. The voters I represent are not concerned about the fairness of elections in Oklahoma. However, they are concerned about fairness and transparency in other states. They have asked me to express their concerns with my vote on the floor today, and as their representative, I intend to do so.”
U.S. Representative Tom Cole (R-OK)
In a follow-up interview with Fox 25, Cole reiterated that his objection was to reflect the will of his constituents. He mentions occasions when Democratic Congress members had objected to past election results and says his 2021 decision is no different. “It was done not to overturn the election… but to make a point.”