Cole Remarks at FY27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Bill Subcommittee Markup (As Prepared for Delivery)

Thank you, Chairman Harris, and thank you to Ranking Member Bishop, Ranking Member DeLauro, and to all the members here today. Our subcommittee markups continue this morning with the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies bill. 

We all recognize a simple truth: when American agriculture is strong, America is strong. This bill delivers on that. It supports farmers, ranchers, and rural communities – and invests in research to keep the U.S. competitive. The measure also includes important action to protect U.S. enterprise. I am particularly pleased with the steps taken to bolster national security by addressing foreign influence in agricultural transactions and improving oversight of overseas drug manufacturing. 

The health and well-being of Americans remain central to this measure. We strengthen rural development, protect access to nutrition programs, and reinforce the integrity of critical food and medical supply chains. And just as importantly, it restores focus and accountability by cutting wasteful programs, eliminating Biden-era regulations, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and with purpose. This measure puts American producers, consumers, and communities first – and supports a strong agricultural economy, protects public health, and reinforces long-term prosperity.

I thank Chairman Harris for his leadership in crafting this bill – and I appreciate the partnership of Ranking Member Bishop, as well as the majority and minority staff. I look forward to advancing this bill out of subcommittee. With that, I yield back.