Cole Remarks at FY26 Subcommittee Allocations Markup

Our next order of business is consideration of the Interim 302(b) Subcommittee Allocations for Fiscal Year 2026 for our first four bills.

These interim allocations will allow us to begin our work.

As we move forward, this committee is prepared to do the hard work – line by line – to uphold fiscal discipline and effective governance. 

Our FY26 process will target resources where they are needed most, reinforce the safety and security of the American people, and invest in high-impact missions.

We will take every step to ensure strong stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Charting a responsible fiscal path requires discipline in discretionary spending, while also acknowledging that mandatory spending is the primary driver of our long-term debt. Both are part of the conversations republicans are having across committees of jurisdiction because securing America’s future prosperity is a goal we all share.

So, as we turn to our responsibility on the discretionary side of the ledger today, these allocations not only demonstrate responsible governance, but they also represent our core commitments: to advancing the America first agenda to strengthen our national defense, supporting the safety and security of the American people, fully funding health care for our nation’s veterans, and ensure that the government remains focused on its core mission.

I look forward to a robust debate today, and I urge all members to support these 302(b) allocations.