Nov 6, 2024 - Politics & Policy

Scoop: Tom Cotton won't join Trump cabinet

Stef W. Kight

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) appears on "Meet the Press" in Washington D.C. — Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) appears on "Meet the Press" Photo: William B. Plowman/NBC via Getty Images

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) has told President-elect Trump's team he will not be accepting administration roles, despite being a top contender for positions including CIA director and Secretary of Defense, two sources familiar tell Axios.

Why it matters: Cotton — a relatively young, conservative defense hawk — is a much-speculated future presidential contender.

Cotton will remain a Trump ally in the Senate where he is running against Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) for conference chair, the No. 3 Senate GOP leadership position.
He's thought to have the edge in the leadership race slated for next Wednesday, sources tell us.
Ernst, who is currently ranked No. 4, was upset when Cotton jumped the gun earlier this year in announcing his bid for Republican Conference chair without giving her a heads-up.

Add Axios on Google

Scoop: Tom Cotton won't join Trump cabinet

What to read next