Cole Remarks at FY27 Legislative Branch Bill Subcommittee Markup (As Prepared for Delivery)

Thank you, Chairman Valadao, and thank you to Ranking Member Espaillat, Ranking Member DeLauro, and to all the members of the subcommittee for being with us today. What we are considering this morning goes to the very foundation of American governance. This bill is about whether the People’s House – and Congress overall – has the capacity, the security, and the discipline to do its job – and to do it well.

The Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch bill ensures we can meet our constitutional obligations to the American people. It invests in the capacity and services that support our constituents, upholds key institutions that support democracy, and ensures oversight throughout government.

The measure makes clear that every dollar must be justified. We rein in unnecessary spending, redirect resources to core functions, and hold programs and contracts to a higher standard. That is what responsible governance looks like.

Additionally, at a time when political violence has unfortunately become all too common, this bill also puts security front and center. It resources the Capitol Police who stand watch over this complex every single day – helping ensure visitors, staff, and lawmakers are safe. Whether in D.C. or during in-district proceedings, the protection of constituents and members is a priority. 

At its core, this legislation is about trust – trust that Congress will serve the American people effectively, steward taxpayer dollars responsibly, and uphold its constitutional role with distinction.

Chairman Valadao has put forward a bill that meets that standard – one that strengthens this institution, reinforces accountability, and ensures we are prepared to carry out the work the American people sent us here to do.

I thank Chairman Valadao, Ranking Member Espaillat, and the dedicated staff on both sides for their contributions. I look forward to having another bill advanced to the full committee as we work to uphold Article I and complete our FY27 work. With that, I yield back.