Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas has emerged as a top contender to become Donald J. Trump’s running mate, with other favorites being Gov. Doug Burgum, Marco Rubio, Tim Scott, and J.D. Vance. Trump is looking for a disciplined campaigner with little risk of distractions. Cotton is seen as a reliable communicator and effective due to his military background and Ivy League education.
Key Points
Trump is looking for a running mate with little risk of distractions
Cotton is praised for his communication skills, military service, and education background
Cotton's endorsement of certain policies and actions could have both positive and negative impacts
Pros
Tom Cotton is seen as a reliable and effective communicator
Cotton's military background and Ivy League education are viewed positively
Cotton's presence on the ticket could reassure traditional Republicans and foreign-policy hawks
Cons
Cotton's past endorsement of a national ban on abortions after 20 weeks could alienate moderate voters
His support for Trump's push to deploy troops against protesters in 2020 could motivate liberal voters against him