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Meet Congressman Tom Cole!
US Representative for Oklahoma's 4th Congressional District.
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Tom Cole spends most of his time listening to people. As a U.S. Congressman, Tom's job is to figure out what Oklahomans want and need their government to do, and then work to make those things happen. Tom meets with people one on one, in small groups, in Congressional hearings, and even on the way to the grocery store, and he always tries to figure out what's important to them. |
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| In the 4th District, most people are interested in higher education, small business growth, oil and gas industries, and military bases like Tinker and Ft. Sill. Some of the projects Tom works on affect lots of people, like financial aid programs for students going to college, and other times Tom can help individuals directly- for example, if a veteran needs help filing an insurance claim. | |||||||||||||
| Tom says, "The best part about my job is getting to work with the diverse people of Oklahoma, and talking with them about their interests. It's a great privilege to represent the people of the 4th District of Oklahoma." | |||||||||||||
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One challenge for Congressman Cole is that he
can't wave a magic wand and make something happen, and sometimes that's
frustrating when he really wants to help someone out.
He says, "I'm a small part of a big government. People overestimate what we can do." Congressman Cole says he'd like to do more, and see changes happen more quickly. He still loves what he does, and says it's a fascinating career, and a great way to serve this country that has given us so many freedoms. |
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Career Check |
Tom would recommend this career
to anyone who likes people.
"It's diverse, interesting, and you have the sense that you're making a difference, " says Tom. "It's a noble calling." |
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| Tom's advice to anyone interested in this career is to get involved with politics. Go to a city council meeting, or a party convention and find someone you'd like to work with. Work on a campaign and make connections. He says, "It's the ultimate Nike slogan- just go do it!" | |||||||||||||
