A New Year’s resolution

By U.S. Rep. Tom Cole
R-Oklahoma

Article I, Section 9, Clause 1 of the United States Constitution states “No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.” This statement is where the Appropriations Committee, which I lead, derives its power to oversee all discretionary spending of the federal government and review how federal tax dollars are being spent.

Proven by this framework laid out by our Founding Fathers, it is Congress’ responsibility to fund the government. However, due to the Democrats’ irresponsible decision to shut down the government last September, Congress did not fulfill our most basic duty: keeping the government funded and working for the American people.

This month, I am determined not to allow the Democrats to fail us again. 

With that being said, in November, President Trump signed our first three appropriations bills into law, and we are carrying that momentum into the new year. In fact, just this morning, the Appropriations Committee continued its work to advance regular order and deliver results for the American people by releasing the Commerce, Justice, and Science, the Energy and Water Development, and the Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026.

This legislation shows our progress towards completing our goal of funding the Fiscal Year 2026 responsibly. Specifically, the bill makes investments to bolster American energy dominance and nuclear deterrence, strengthens law enforcement and their efforts to combat illicit drugs, expands access to critical minerals, and supports wildland firefighters and responsible land managements. Additionally, it delivers critical community projects nationwide.

So, in conclusion, I urge my colleagues to join me on my New Year’s Resolution to get our job done and pass this critical legislation.