Cole Remarks at FY27 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Bill Full Committee Markup (As Prepared for Delivery)

Thank you, Chairman Rogers, and thank you to Ranking Member Meng, Ranking Member DeLauro, and all our members. Our full committee markups continue today with consideration of the Fiscal Year 2027 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies bill.

The scope of this legislation demonstrates the breadth of American leadership itself — from law enforcement protecting our communities, to the scientists and innovators shaping the next century of discovery — we are investing in the institutions and capabilities that keep the United States safe, competitive, and forward-looking.

And while Washington often speaks about these topics in terms of accounts and allocations, the missions funded through this bill are anything but conceptual or distant. That reality is underscored by this markup taking place during National Police Week. Here in D.C. — and across the nation — we are reflecting on the men and women in blue who willingly place themselves in harm’s way to help others.

This legislation reinforces their duty with targeted support for federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. It bolsters funding for Byrne JAG and COPS grants, strengthens efforts to combat fentanyl and violent crime, and provides the resources necessary for law enforcement agencies to continue protecting our citizens.

Whether confronting cyber hackers and transnational crime — or supporting a justice system rooted in the rule of law — this measure reinforces the simple reality that safe communities are the foundation of a strong nation.

The frontlines of American service do not end on our streets. In fact, they extend into new frontiers of exploration, modernization, and discovery beyond Earth itself.

As Artemis astronauts visited with the CJS Subcommittee just yesterday, they reminded us of something important: America is still a nation that builds, explores, invents, and pushes beyond what others think is possible.

It’s why we continue to support innovation and NASA in this legislation — because making history means leading it. This also means safeguarding the ingenuity that propels us forward. At a time when Communist China and adversaries are aggressively targeting U.S. research and emerging technologies, we are reinforcing necessary safeguards. We defend American innovation from theft, reinforce export controls, and invest in critical capabilities that will define the future, including artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. 

All of these priorities are upheld without government waste and bloat. We reiterate President Trump’s efforts to right-size government and confront bureaucratic overreach — securing savings for taxpayers and protecting the constitutional rights of Americans.

Each investment in this bill is tied to a clear purpose: safer neighborhoods, stronger institutions, and a more secure and competitive nation. Chairman Rogers has spent his career fighting for those objectives. And as we work to report this measure out today, we are reminded what it will ultimately deliver: 

A nation that backs law enforcement;

A nation that leads in discovery;

And a nation that fosters economic growth and community strength. 

I thank Chairman Rogers, Ranking Member Meng, and both the majority and minority staff for their hard work. I look forward to advancing this legislation. With that, I yield back.