Cole Remarks at Oversight Hearing on U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Thank you, Chairman Amodei and Ranking Member Underwood, and thank you, Madam Secretary, for being with us today.

Let me begin by commending the brave men and women of this department who stand on the front lines each day to protect the homeland. Under new leadership, they’ve been empowered to fully carry out that fundamental duty. From day one, the Trump Administration has made clear that protecting America is not negotiable—and this White House has taken immediate action to strengthen the security of our nation’s borders and enforce existing immigration laws. The contrast from the Biden Administration could not be clearer. Policies that allowed an open and lawless border have ended, and the message is clear: Illegal migrants—including violent offenders—will no longer have an open invitation. Criminal cartels and traffickers will no longer be enriched.And the safety of our citizens will no longer be put last. 

In less than 100 days, we’ve watched our southern border go from chaos to closed. The decisive actions and common-sense measures of the Trump Administration have led to a historic turnaround, driving illegal crossings to record lows and ensuring removal of dangerous criminals. President Trump and his cabinet have delivered on the promise to have the most secure border in modern American history, and our nation is safer as a result. It’s imperative that investments for effective border security and enforcement are strong, and I’m dedicated to working with the members on this Committee and across the Capitol to ensure the department is properly resourced. 

Secondly, I appreciate that the DHS mission doesn’t end here. Living in tornado alley, Oklahomans are no strangers to the devastation caused by natural disasters. Even now, a slow-moving storm and record-breaking rainfall is responsible for significant flooding in my state that has already resulted in loss of life and a state of emergency declaration. When state and local resources are exhausted, we rely on FEMA to bring additional capabilities that save residents, remove debris, and help our fellow citizens rebuild. This isn’t a partisan issue—it’s one that concerns states, regardless of politics. 

I look forward to a discussion on ways to reform FEMA and improve federal emergency response capability while eliminating inefficiencies and wasteful spending. Programs like the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grants have provided many communities with the means to mitigate the next disaster before it strikes – potentially saving taxpayers even more money. I support efforts like these that give local communities, including in rural Oklahoma, the resources to prevent further destruction. 

Madam Secretary, I know we are both committed to ensuring safer and stronger communities across the nation. Thank you again for being here today, and I look forward to your testimony. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. With that, I yield back.