Cole Floor Remarks on H.R. 7006, Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2026

"I rise today in support of H.R. 7006, which institutes Fiscal Year 2026 funding for the Financial Services and General Government and National Security and Department of State appropriations measures. This Congress has a fundamental responsibility to fund the government, and this two-bill package is our next step forward in completing all 12 measures.

"When done the right way, funding the government is not a single vote. It is a process that requires steady, deliberate progress. I'm proud to say we are doing just that.

"Today marks the second time this month that we are bringing bipartisan, bicameral bills to the floor. We promised the American people a responsible, member-driven process – and that is precisely what we are delivering. This two-bill package reflects member input, the America First agenda, and collaboration across political aisles and chambers that serves the nation.

"Advancing full-year appropriations matters because it gives the country certainty and direction. It allows vital agencies to plan, make decisions, and do their jobs based on today's realities, not policies from the past. That is how we move from promises to action and carry out the America First agenda mandated by the people. Those priorities are reflected throughout the measure before us.

"Through the Financial Services and General Government portion of the bill, FSGG Chairman David Joyce advanced important provisions that drive economic growth, uphold consumer freedom, and support entrepreneurship and small businesses – reinforcing the foundations of the American dream for people and job creators nationwide.

"It also advances needed government efficiencies by cutting waste, modernizing technology and cybersecurity, and addressing unused federal space and buildings. And, crucially, it protects Americans from a supercharged IRS by cutting enforcement and redirecting resources to customer service. This is especially important as we approach tax filing season and implement the Working Families Tax Cut, allowing families to keep more of what they earn.

"Just as this package strengthens economic security and accountability, it also reinforces America's security and leadership at home and abroad.
 
"The National Security and Department of State measures champion an America First foreign policy. We replace the weakness of prior administrations by restoring President Trump's peace through strength agenda. NSRP Chairman Mario Diaz-Balart took decisive action to reprioritize funding in support of our nation's security. This allowed us to eliminate $9.3 billion in spending while reasserting deterrence and leadership.

"To protect the safety, freedom, and prosperity of the American people, we show that focused strategy – not endless spending – is what delivers results. We make critical investments in high-impact initiatives that combat narcotics and human trafficking, confront the malign influence of the Chinese Communist Party, and counter terrorism.

"We reinforce democracy and human rights efforts – and defend religious liberty. As both a moral duty and vital American interest, we will not tolerate religious persecution and attacks on faith. Upholding these values strengthens American leadership and advances freedom around the world.

"We also eliminate wasteful initiatives, implement necessary accountability at the United Nations, and prohibit any funds for things like UNRWA or the Taliban. 

"Bottom line: We counter our foes and stand with our friends – and ensure investments are focused on security, keeping Americans safe, and enhancing our global edge. Taken in its entirety, the package serves a clear purpose – safety, strength, and freedom. That is certainly something we can all support.

"I commend the detailed work of our Chairmen – Representatives Joyce and Díaz-Balart. Their leadership and careful stewardship of this package ensured the substance of this bill matched the responsibility of the task. And to their accompanying Ranking Members – Representatives Steny Hoyer and Lois Frankel – thank you for your professionalism and engagement in this process. This work demonstrates what can be accomplished through collaboration and respect. I also want to particularly thank my good friend and working partner, the distinguished Ranking Member of the Full Committee, Ms. DeLauro, and I also want to thank the superb staff on both sides of the aisle who worked tirelessly to present us with the product before us today.

"As I look ahead to today's vote, I am grateful for the future I see – one where President Trump keeps his pen ready because full-year appropriations are advancing and certainty is being restored.

"I thank each of you for your time, and I urge all members to support this bipartisan package. With that, I reserve the balance of my time."