“Inflammatory passion and selfish interest characterizes most men, whereas ambition characterizes men who pursue and hold national office. Such men rise from the people through a process of self-selection, since politics is a dirty business that discourages all but the most ambitious.”

American politician and former Army officer

Tom Cotton is an American politician and former Army officer. He has served since 2015 as the junior United States senator from Arkansas, and he previously represented Arkansas's 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2013 to 2015. A member of the Republican Party, Cotton is known for his work in Congress and for his background in the military. His public record centers on national politics and his service in both chambers of Congress.