Background of Senator Tom Cotton

Senator Tom Cotton has a notable background that includes a formative upbringing on a cattle farm in Arkansas, graduating cum laude from Harvard University, and earning his law degree from Harvard Law School. His commitment to national service led him to enlist in the U.S. Army post-9/11, where he served as an infantry officer in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning commendations such as the Bronze Star Medal. After his military career, Cotton transitioned to the private sector as a management consultant before entering politics, winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012 and later the U.S. Senate in 2014. His legislative focus has centered primarily on national security and defense issues, reflecting his military background and expertise.