Washington, D.C. – Congressman Frank Lucas (OK-03) released the following statement after Congressman Tom Cole’s (OK-04) appointment to become chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations. The Republican Steering Committee unanimously endorsed Chairman Cole late Tuesday night, with the GOP Conference ratifying it this morning. 

“I’d like to congratulate my fellow Oklahoman and long-time friend, Tom Cole, for his appointment as chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations,” said Congressman Frank Lucas. “Chairman Cole has the distinct privilege of being the first Oklahoman to ever serve in this incredibly important and influential position. This stands as a landmark day in the history of our state’s congressional representation, and I join my fellow Oklahomans in celebrating this momentous achievement. I look forward to continuing to work with Chairman Cole in advancing priorities that benefit communities across the state and nation.”