Cole Gavels Organizational Meeting for 119th Congress
Washington, D.C. – Today, House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) gaveled in the organizational meeting for the 119th Congress. The Appropriations Committee rules and subcommittee jurisdictions were adopted by voice vote.
Chairman Cole stated, in part:
“The Appropriations Committee prides itself on our longstanding commitment to orderly and respectful debate. We have a strong tradition of working together and seeking consensus where we can. I am committed to fulfilling that tradition as your Chair.
“Looking forward, I am proud to say it is a new day in America. The American people have mandated strong governance - and we will deliver on that duty.
“We will continue to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, as we have historically been.
“We will continue to ensure that every taxpayer dollar has a job, and is used wisely and judiciously, where it can do the most good for our great nation.
“And we will continue our practice of conducting robust, bipartisan oversight of the agencies and departments we fund.
“Indeed, it is my expectation that our subcommittees will quickly begin holding hearings to evaluate programs under their respective jurisdictions. We are here to work hard for the greatest nation in the world, and I expect us to take up those responsibilities as quickly as possible.
“Of course, none of us can do this alone. I will need help and cooperation from each of you. And, I thank you in advance for that help.”
Full remarks, as prepared for delivery, are available here.
Updated subcommittee rosters for the 119th Congress are listed here.
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