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Tom Cole issues statement after passage of $70B “Save America Act” immigration bill.Congressman Tom Cole issues statement after passage of $70B “Save America Act” OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.(KOKH) — Congressman Tom Cole released a statement following the passing of the $70 billion immigration bill titled the "Save America Act." The bill secures long-term funding for ICE operations, Customs and Border Patrol, and other homeland security priorities.Cole said he voted for the bill to secure funding for the agents and officers who defend the United States and keep communities safe.Congressman Tom Cole's Full Statement on the Save America Act: Terrorists.Human traffickers.Drug smugglers.Each day, ICE and Border Patrol agents and officers confront these threats head-on to keep America safe.It’s exactly why I have consistently voted to comprehensively resource these law enforcement professionals as they carry out their security missions.While the far-left hoped to eradicate funding for critical operations and weaken our border security apparatus, House Republicans have made clear that we will continue to support those who defend our homeland and keep our communities safe.I do not regret the objective of our actions today, but I am appalled by the complete failure of Senate Democrats that led us to this moment.Chuck Schumer and his radical caucus twice shut down the government, instigating chaos across the nation.Since then, they have continued to diminish Article I and forced the use of reconciliation.It’s wrong – and deliberately undermines the appropriations process.The Constitution entrusts Congress with the power of the purse.Yet, in great irony, the Senate has shown greater concern for protecting an internal rule than fulfilling its constitutional duty.The filibuster is nothing more than an institutional habit.It is neither mentioned nor sanctioned in our founding documents.I would remind my peers on the other side of the Rotunda that no chamber precedent is greater than the bedrock of our Republic.Members swear an oath to uphold the Constitution – not the filibuster.I thoroughly regret the erosion of Article I authority that Senate Democrats have instigated, and the price everyday Americans have been forced to pay as a result.I hope the months-long charade that led us to this moment serves as a reminder that no partisan fixation is worth shutting down the government, abandoning constitutional responsibilities, and forcing Congress into extraordinary measures simply to perform its most basic duties.I believe in the Constitution, the power of the purse, and completing the appropriations process.I also believe in keeping the homeland safe.The Senate may have abandoned proper governing, but I will not abandon those who stand watch over our borders and protect our communities.Our work, of course, doesn’t end here.As the Fiscal Year 2027 Appropriations markups near completion, I am reminded that governing is a choice.The work I do, the votes I cast, and the actions I take will always be guided by one principle: fulfilling our obligations to the American people.BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT For more local news delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter by clicking here.NEWS IN PHOTOS: "Local"8 City leaders decide not to move forward with Norman homeless encampments ordinance 3 Congressman Tom Cole announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners 11 Active pattern continues with heat advisories and severe weather 3 Edmond City Council approves data center permit moratorium through December