Cole Remarks at FY26 Financial Services and General Government Bill Subcommittee Markup

Thank you, Chairman Joyce. And thank you to Ranking Member Hoyer, Ranking Member of the Full Committee DeLauro, and all the members of the subcommittee.

Today we continue our work on the FY 2026 Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill.

This legislation provides important resources for agencies and offices that impact every American, our economy, and the branches of the United States government. From the Executive Office of the President to the Federal Judiciary, the impact touches everything from national security to the rule of law.

Taxpayers demand legislation that responsibly addresses critical needs while systematically eliminating waste. This measure exemplifies that approach and further demonstrates steady and consistent progress in cutting federal spending. 

This bill cuts $410 million from the FY 2025 House-reported bill without relying on budget gimmicks. It’s built on hard choices and clear priorities.

I applaud Chairman Joyce for making those decisions. 

This fiscal responsibility doesn’t mean sacrificing essential services or investments in our future.

The bill supports President Trump’s America First goals by strengthening our national security and leveraging investments in technology to ensure the federal government is working smarter, faster, and more efficiently.

Resources are provided to adequately scrutinize foreign investment in the United States from countries like China. The legislation also continues support for programs that prevent and deter terrorists and criminals from using the American financial system. 

The subcommittee has continued vital funding for programs to strengthen interdiction efforts to stop fentanyl and other narcotics from coming across the border and into our communities.

The bill supports cybersecurity and information technology modernization efforts across the federal government. Making these imperative investments in technology will ensure government information is kept safe and secure from cyber criminals and foreign actors, while also generating long-term cost savings for the taxpayer. 

The measure also codifies several important executive orders to protect taxpayers from waste, fraud, and abuse, and prevent improper payments. 

All in all, it supports hardworking Americans and small businesses by protecting consumer freedom, upholding our financial and judicial systems, and driving economic growth.

I want to thank Chairman Joyce, Ranking Member Hoyer, and the members of the subcommittee for their hard work over the last several months in crafting this legislation. 

I look forward to consideration of this bill today. 

And with that, Mr. Chairman, I yield back.