Biography
Thomas Bryant Cotton, born on May 13, 1977, in Dardanelle, Arkansas, is a Republican politician serving as the junior United States Senator from Arkansas since 2015. Raised on his family's cattle farm, Cotton's early life was deeply rooted in rural Arkansas. After completing his education, he served nearly five years on active duty in the United States Army as an Infantry Officer, with deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Between his combat tours, he served with The Old Guard at Arlington National Cemetery. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Ranger Tab.
Following his military service, Cotton worked for McKinsey & Company before entering politics. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012, representing Arkansas's 4th congressional district. In 2014, he successfully ran for the U.S. Senate, defeating incumbent Democrat Mark Pryor. As a senator, Cotton has been known for his conservative stance on various issues, including foreign policy and national security.
In November 2024, Cotton was selected as Chair of the Senate Republican Conference and Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, reflecting his growing influence within the party.
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Government from Harvard University, graduated magna cum laude in 1998.
- Juris Doctor from Harvard Law School.
Political Experience
- U.S. Representative for Arkansas's 4th congressional district .
- U.S. Senator from Arkansas .
- Chair of the Senate Republican Conference .
- Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee .
Notable Achievements
- Served nearly five years on active duty in the U.S. Army as an Infantry Officer, with deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- Received military decorations including the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Ranger Tab.
- Elected to the U.S. Senate in 2014, defeating incumbent Democrat Mark Pryor.
- Selected as Chair of the Senate Republican Conference and Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee in 2024.
Cotton's political career is marked by his commitment to national security and conservative principles, positioning him as a prominent figure within the Republican Party.
