Cole Remarks at FY26 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Bill Subcommittee Markup (As Prepared For Delivery)

Thank you, Chairman Carter, and thank you to Ranking Member Wasserman Schultz, Ranking Member DeLauro, and to all the members of the subcommittee for being here.

This morning’s first measure is the first appropriations bill we will consider for Fiscal Year 2026. I echo my good friend Judge Carter’s comments about this bill. It honors our commitment to those who’ve worn America’s uniform and supports our military and their loved ones. By providing critical funding for military bases and improving housing for our troops and their families, we are ensuring that our national defense needs are met both at home and abroad.

We are also upholding our pledge to our veterans. This bill fully funds health care and benefits for those who have honorably served. They upheld their sacred oath to us—and now a grateful nation is keeping our promise to them. 

Today marks the start of our process and our work to fund the government. As this bill moves forward and considerations are made and debated, the pillars of the proposal won’t change. Our objectives remain: Supporting our veterans; Honoring the service of our troops and their families; and investing in our military bases and posture. We are demonstrating America’s obligations to our heroes, defense, and national security effectively and responsibly.

I want to thank Chairman Carter, Ranking Member Wasserman Schultz, and the majority and minority staff for their hard work, and I look forward to consideration of this bill today. With that, I yield back.