Cole Floor Remarks on H.R. 8469, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2027 (As Prepared for the Record)

Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend Judge Carter for yielding the time. I rise today in support of our first FY27 appropriations bill on the floor – the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. 

This legislation reflects something we’ve long understood from our founding: America’s story has always been shaped by ordinary men and women willing to step forward and answer a call greater than themselves. A country worthy of sacrifice must also be worthy of the people who made that sacrifice – and our obligation to those who wear the uniform does not end when they return home or hang up their uniform.

This bill reflects that promise. We are delivering the support, resources, and readiness that make a real difference. And you don’t have to rely on my word – the substance of this funding is clear: 

We fully fund veteran health care and benefits; 

We prioritize critical mental health and suicide prevention efforts; 

And we invest in improvements at VA facilities, military cemeteries, and monuments. 

At the same time, this measure reinforces our base posture from the ground up by investing in military construction, improving barracks, and ensuring our installations are equipped to support readiness in an increasingly complex environment. From the Indo-Pacific to commands here at home, strength and preparedness are not optional. 

We also recognize that a strong military is built not only by those on the frontlines – but by the loved ones who support them through every sacrifice. That’s why this bill supports family housing, childcare, and quality-of-life needs for military families. Put simply, this legislation strengthens the full foundation of American security through care for our veterans, capabilities for our bases, and construction that supports readiness for the future. 

Chairman Carter’s work reflects the seriousness these responsibilities demand and the lasting commitments we owe to those who serve. Together with Ranking Member Wasserman Schultz, he wrote a bill that earned unanimous support out of full committee because its priorities are grounded in supporting the best of our nation. 

At a time when Americans too often only hear about division and dysfunction, this strong and bipartisan proposal demonstrates that support for our veterans, troops, and military families can still unite this institution around a common purpose. 

Voting “yes” is a statement that America does not forget those who answered the call to defend her.

I again thank Chairman Carter and Ranking Member Wasserman Shultz for their leadership on this measure and urge all members to join me in supporting this bill’s final passage. With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back.