Congressman Tom Cole, who represents Oklahoma’s 4th district in the U.S. Congress, attended a Turning Point USA event at the University of Oklahoma. Cole has served in Congress since 2003, following his tenure in the Oklahoma Senate from 1988 to 1991.
After the event, Cole released a statement highlighting the contributions of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. “Charlie Kirk truly believed in the importance of civil discourse and public debate. When Charlie visited college campuses, he was there to respectfully engage with students – no matter their political views – and find mutual understanding with one another. I was really looking forward to welcoming him to the University of Oklahoma for what would have been a stop on his ‘Prove Me Wrong’ tour,” said Congressman Cole.
The event changed from its original format but still focused on honoring Kirk’s legacy. Cole stated, “However, while the event was not originally what it was supposed to be, it still amplified Charlie’s message. It honored his legacy though speeches on faith and hope for the future. It proved that civil discourse and free speech are still very much alive and well. It spread Charlie’s strong conservative views and reminded everyone to not back down from their beliefs.”
Cole expressed gratitude toward both the university and Turning Point USA for hosting him: “I thank the University of Oklahoma and Turning Point USA for welcoming me to attend this event. It was a privilege to have the opportunity to honor Charlie, and I look forward to seeing Turning Point continue to spread his mission, as I am sure that is what Charlie would have wanted.”
Cole, who was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1949 and now lives in Moore, Oklahoma, graduated from Grinnell College with a BA in 1971.
