Tom Cole (OK-4)

Biography

Tom Cole, born on April 28, 1949, in Shreveport, Louisiana, is a Republican politician representing Oklahoma's 4th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. A fifth-generation Oklahoman and an enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation, Cole has been a prominent advocate for Native American issues and a leader in promoting biomedical research. He is recognized for his support of a strong national defense and his commitment to taxpayers and small businesses. In 2024, Cole became the first Native American and the first Oklahoman to chair the House Appropriations Committee.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts in History from Grinnell College, 1971
• Master of Arts in British History from Yale University, 1974
• Ph.D. in 19th Century British History from the University of Oklahoma, 1984

Cole was also a Thomas J. Watson Fellow and a Fulbright Fellow at the University of London.

Political Experience

• Oklahoma State Senate: Served from 1988 to 1991.
• Secretary of State of Oklahoma: Appointed in 1995, serving until 1999.
• U.S. House of Representatives: Elected in 2002, currently serving his twelfth term representing Oklahoma's 4th Congressional District.
• Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee: Appointed in April 2024, becoming the first Native American and Oklahoman to hold this position.
• Chairman of the House Rules Committee: Served from January 2023 to April 2024.
• Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee: Held the position from 2006 to 2008.

Throughout his career, Cole has been a tireless advocate for Native American communities, emphasizing the importance of tribal sovereignty and the federal government's trust responsibilities.

Tom Cole Secures GOP Primary Victory in Oklahoma: