url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-statement-on-asylum-agreement-with-mexico,Cotton Statement on Asylum Agreement with Mexico,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) today released the following statement after the Trump administration announced that asylum seekers at the Southern border will return to Mexico while their cases are decided:

""Today's agreement is a positive step towards fixing our nation's broken asylum system. I applaud the Mexican government for their cooperation in addressing issues posed by mass Central American migration. Now it's imperative that Congress pass legislation to close asylum loopholes, secure our borders, and restore integrity to our immigration laws.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-passes-cotton-and-039s-full-military-honors-act,Senate Passes Cotton's Full Military Honors Act,2018-12-20,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Caroline Tabler or James Arnold (202) 224-2353

Washington, D.C. — Last night, the Senate passed the Full Military Honors Act of 2018, a bill introduced by Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) that would allow all Medal of Honor recipients and former prisoners of war to receive a full military honors burial ceremony with an escort, regardless of rank. Currently, full military honors with an escort are reserved for senior officers, non-commissioned officers, and servicemembers killed in combat.

“Rank is not the sole or final measure of service to this country,” Senator Cotton said. “The dignity of a fallen servicemember’s interment should be measured by their courage, not simply the insignia on their sleeves or shoulders. Now that the Senate has approved the bill, the next Congress should move quickly to show the families of the deceased and members of our military that the United States will always honor its veterans appropriately for their service.”

Background:

Most veterans who are eligible for burial in Arlington are entitled to a bugler, a firing party, and a casket team (all part of the full military honors ceremony). However, the additional funeral escort honors are currently reserved for certain retired officers and those who were killed in action.

Escort honors include a caisson and a marching element made up of a band and a color guard.

The Full Military Honors Act of 2018 would provide full military honors with an escort to both Medal of Honor recipients and POWs, regardless of their rank.

Representative Mike Bishop (MI-08) has introduced companion legislation, H.R. 6734, in the U.S. House of Representatives.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-kennedy-announce-support-for-cruz-and-lankford-amendments,"Cotton, Kennedy Announce Support for Cruz and Lankford Amendments",2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and John Kennedy (R-Louisiana) today announced that they will support and sponsor Senator Ted Cruz's amendment to the First Step Act to exclude additional violent felons from early release and Senator James Lankford's amendment to remove the discriminatory language in the bill that prohibits faith-based groups from receiving funding:

""We believe these are commonsense improvements to a bad bill and urge all of our colleagues to allow these amendments to come to the floor for a vote.""

Background:

The First Step Act states that ""A group, company, charity, person, or entity may not engage in faith-based activities using direct financial assistance..."", Senator Lankford's amendment fixes this discriminatory language.

Senator Cruz's amendment excludes additional categories of violent felons including carjackers who intend to cause serious bodily injury.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-statement-on-the-first-step-act,Cotton Statement on the First Step Act,2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on the First Step Act:

""While the bill has marginally improved from earlier versions, I'm disappointed my amendments to exclude child molesters from early release and to protect victims' rights were not adopted. I also remain concerned that reducing sentences for drug traffickers and violent felons is a threat to public safety.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cotton-cruz-introduce-resolution-encouraging-the-united-states-to-recognize-israel-and-146s-sovereignty-over-golan-heights,"Senators Cotton, Cruz Introduce Resolution Encouraging the United States to Recognize Israel’s Sovereignty Over Golan Heights",2018-12-18,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. -Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and introduced a Senate resolution encouraging the United States to recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights. The full text of the resolution may be read here.

""Israel's northern border is threatened by Iranian forces and their proxies in Lebanon and Syria, including Hezbollah's 150,000 rockets, armed drones, newly discovered terror tunnels, and more. Meanwhile, with the Ayatollahs' help, Bashar al Assad's regime is on the verge of securing victory in Syria's civil war. He may soon turn his attention back to threatening the Jewish state."" Cotton and Cruz said. ""Israel gained possession over the Golan Heights in a defensive war over 50 years ago, and has responsibly controlled the area ever since. It's past time for the United States to recognize reality by affirming Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights.""

The following is the full text of the resolution:

Expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States should recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

Whereas, until 1967, Syria controlled the Golan Heights and used the topographical advantage it provided to attack Israeli troops and civilians;

Whereas, in June 1967, Syria intensified its attacks against Israel from the Golan Heights, and Israel captured the Golan Heights in a defensive war;

Whereas, in October 1973, the Golan Heights provided Israel with critical strategic depth to repel a surprise attack by Syrian forces;

Whereas, on September 1, 1975, President Gerald Ford provided a diplomatic assurance to Israel that ""the U.S. will support the position that an overall settlement with Syria in the framework of a peace agreement must assure Israel's security from attack from the Golan Heights"" and that ""the U.S. has not developed a final position on the borders. Should it do so it will give great weight to Israel's position that any peace agreement with Syria must be predicated on Israel remaining on the Golan Heights"";

Whereas, in October 1991, Secretary of State James Baker provided a diplomatic assurance to Israel that ""the United States continues to stand behind the assurance given by President Ford to Prime Minister Rabin on September 1, 1975"";

Whereas, in 1981, Israel applied its ""law, jurisdiction, and administration"" over the Golan Heights and has controlled the Golan Heights for 51 years;

Whereas, since 2011, Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad has killed hundreds of thousands of Syrian civilians, including with weapons of mass destruction, and has pursued an ethnic cleansing campaign against Syrian Sunnis;

Whereas Iran has used the war in Syria to establish a military presence in the Levant, including thousands of Iranian troops and proxies, and now seeks to create territorial corridors that solidify its control, expand its activities, establish a permanent military presence, and provide arms to its terrorist proxies;

Whereas Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism and the leaders of Iran regularly threaten to wipe out Israel;

Whereas Iran and its proxies have repeatedly attacked Israel from inside Syria, including in February 2018 when Iranian forces infiltrated Israel with a drone and in May 2018 when Iranian forces shelled the Golan Heights;

Whereas, in December 2014, Congress unanimously resolved that the United States supported the sovereign right of the Government of Israel to defend its territory and its citizens from attacks against Israel by Hamas, a terrorist group supported by Iran; and

Whereas Israel's control over the Golan Heights provides a defensible border, deters attacks from hostile forces, facilitates intelligence gathering, and allows Israel to detect threats to its national security: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate that-

(1) the United States supports the sovereign right of the Government of Israel to defend its territory and its citizens from attacks against Israel, including by Iran or its proxies;

(2) Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights is critical to Israel's national security;

(3) Israel's security from attack from Syria and Lebanon cannot be assured without Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights;

(4) it is in the United States' national security interest to ensure Israel's security;

(5) it is in the United States' national security interest to ensure that the Assad regime faces diplomatic and geopolitical consequences for the killing of civilians, the ethnic cleansing of Syrian Sunnis, and the use of weapons of mass destruction, including by ensuring that Israel retains control of the Golan Heights; and

(6) the United States should recognize Israel's sovereignty over the Golan Heights.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/law-enforcement-and-victims-and-146-rights-group-support-cotton-kennedy-amendments,Law Enforcement and Victims’ Rights Group Support Cotton-Kennedy Amendments,2018-12-14,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and John Kennedy (R-Louisiana) today announced support from law enforcement and victims' rights groups for the Cotton-Kennedy amendments to the First Step Act. Click here to read a letter from the National Association of Police Organizations.

""I'm pleased that major law enforcement groups support our amendments to exclude violent felons and sex offenders from early release, notify victims before criminals are released, and to measure whether the First Step Act works. Next week, the Senate will vote on these amendments. I urge my colleagues to support these changes to ensure that no violent sex offenders can be eligible for any type of early release,"" said Senator Cotton.

""The early release of criminals is not an issue that should be fast-tracked through Congress,"" said Senator Kennedy. ""As written, the First Step Act could release many violent criminals and sex offenders. Our amendment addresses these threats to public safety, and it has been endorsed by law enforcement officers and victims' rights groups. I hope that the rest of our Senate colleagues realize the shortfalls of the First Step Act and vote to support this amendment.""

The Cotton-Kennedy amendments will:

Exclude nine more classes of criminals from using time credits to transfer out of prison early, including sex offenders who attempt to coerce minors under 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b)

Require the Bureau of Prisons to attempt to notify victims before criminals are transferred out of prison

Track the rearrests of criminals in prerelease custody or supervised release to ensure the program is working",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/2018/12/11/cotton-statement-on-criminal-justice-reform-floor-debate,Cotton Statement on Criminal Justice Reform Floor Debate,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. -Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on the plan to bring the First Step Act to the Senate floor:

""For months I've said the First Step Act allows violent felons and sex offenders to be released early. I'm pleased the drafters have finally acknowledged that reality and made changes to address some of the specific issues I pointed out. Unfortunately, the bill still has major problems and allows early release for many categories of serious, violent criminals. This includes felons who commit violent bank robberies with dangerous weapons, who assault children, and who commit carjacking with the intent to cause death. I look forward to debating this bill on the Senate floor and introducing amendments to address its many remaining threats to public safety.""

Crimes still eligible for early release in the latest version of the bill:

1. Bank robbery with a dangerous weapon (18 U.S.C. § 2113(d))

2. Assault against a child (18 U.S.C. § 113(a)(5))

3. Carjacking with intent to cause death (18 U.S.C. 2119(1))",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-supports-new-wotus-rule,Cotton Supports New WOTUS Rule,2018-12-11,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) released the following statement today after the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Army proposed a new definition of the waters of the U.S. rule that clarifies federal authority under the Clean Water Act.

""Everyone wants clean water, but the 2015 ‘waters of the U.S.' rule was a vast and vague expansion of federal regulation, especially in Arkansas. The new definition announced today still protects our waterways while giving producers and landowners the clarity they need to farm and build. Many of the proposed changes closely mirror my own legislative solution to this regulatory problem, and I'm pleased that the Trump administration has followed through on its promise to rural America.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-cotton-jones-merkley-lead-bipartisan-effort-to-stop-predatory-unsolicited-loans,"Senators Cotton, Jones, Merkley Lead Bipartisan Effort to Stop Predatory Unsolicited Loans",2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Doug Jones (D-Ala.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) today introduced legislation that would halt the predatory practice of mailing high-interest loans to consumers in the form of ""live"" checks. When consumers receive these loan checks, many unknowingly believe they have received money from their bank or financial institution, not realizing that the check is often a high-interest loan.

The Unsolicited Loan Act of 2018 would prohibit this practice and ensure that consumers access loans only when they proactively apply for them. This legislation mirrors the decades old prohibition on the mailing of live credit cards.

""People should understand clearly when they are taking on debt. But because ‘live' checks mailed directly to consumers don't require an application or any previous relationship with the consumer, many individuals don't realize that these checks are actually high-interest loans until it's too late. Just like Congress ended the practice of mailing ‘live' credit cards nearly 50 years ago, Congress should pass our bill now to stop this underhanded practice,"" said Senator Cotton.

""As working Americans look to make ends meet, lenders will often target cash-strapped families with these mailings. It is unconscionable that someone would take advantage of another person's dire financial situation to make a quick buck for themselves. We need to end this predatory lending tactic and pass this legislation to protect consumers and their pocketbooks,"" said Senator Jones.

""When you receive a check in the mail, it's natural to assume that depositing it will help-not hurt-your bottom line. But these checks don't pad consumers' pocketbooks; instead, they send them into a vortex of debt. The practice of mailing high-interest loans disguised as checks is unconscionable and clearly predatory. Today, we're sending a bipartisan message that this unacceptable practice must end,"" said Senator Merkley.

Background on the Unsolicited Loan Act of 2018

It has been long recognized by Congress that consumer loans should require an application by a customer. In fact, Congress banned the mailing of unsolicited live credit cards nearly 50 years ago. In modern lending, a formal loan application can often take just minutes, and the bill does not prohibit the direct marketing or mailing of a loan application. This legislation would provide common-sense consumer protections without limiting access to credit for consumers who willingly apply and seek lending products.

The bill would also ensure that companies cannot shift from the mailing of live checks to other forms of transfer, such as a gift card or an ""e-check."" In addition, it would ensure that customers are not liable for debt incurred from an illegal, unsolicited live check loan.

The National Consumer Law Center has endorsed this legislation on behalf of its low-income clients.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-support-arkansas-marshallese-community,Senators Support Arkansas Marshallese Community,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and John Boozman (R-Arkansas) supported Senate passage of H.R. 3398, the REAL ID Act Modification for Freely Associated States Act. The legislation amends the REAL ID Act of 2005 to allow citizens of the Marshall Islands and other Pacific Freely Associated States who legally live in the U.S. to obtain a driver's license or personal identification card. Due to the omission of the Freely Associated States in the 2005 REAL ID Act, Marshallese living in the U.S. have been denied anything more than a temporary ID or driver's license valid only for one year, complicating their ability to maintain employment and open bank accounts. The Senate passed the bill yesterday by unanimous consent.

""Arkansas is home to thousands of Marshallese. Removing the unintended barrier to obtaining a driver's license or personal ID card will help residents become even more productive members of the community. This legislation addresses this hurdle for the Marshallese community and other citizens of Freely Associated States living in the U.S. We strongly urge the president to sign this bill quickly into law,"" the senators said.

""I offer my heartfelt gratitude to Senators Cotton and Boozman for their effectiveness in shepherding the REAL ID Modification for Freely Associated States Act (H.R.3398) through the United States Senate. Their strong leadership will enable our Marshallese citizens living in Arkansas and throughout the country to contribute fully to the communities that have embraced them. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is proud of our extraordinarily close relationship with the United States of America, and those of us who call Arkansas our second home deeply appreciate the opportunities made possible today by Senators Cotton and Boozman,"" said Marshall Islands Ambassador Gerald Zackios.

In 1986, the U.S. and Marshall Islands entered into the Compact of Free Association, which allows Marshallese to live and work in the U.S. as non-immigrants.

Northwest Arkansas has the largest Marshallese population in the continental U.S. The 2010 census estimated 4,324 out of the 22,400 Marshallese individuals living in the U.S. resided in Arkansas. The Marshallese community in Arkansas has since grown to an estimated 8,000 to 14,000 individuals. In addition to its embassy in Washington, D.C., the Republic of the Marshall Islands also has a consulate in Springdale.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hot-springs-to-receive-20-million-for-bypass-extension,Hot Springs to Receive $20 Million for Bypass Extension,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Caroline Tabler or James Arnold (202) 224-2353

Washington, D.C. — Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR) and John Boozman (R-AR), along with Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04), announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation will award the Arkansas Department of Transportation a $20 million BUILD grant to construct the Hot Springs bypass extension. The extension would run from the interchange with Highway 70 east of the city of Hot Springs and extend north to the intersection of Highways 5 and 7.

“This announcement is great news for the greater Hot Springs community and Arkansas as a whole. This extension will help Hot Springs continue to grow, and I’m grateful to Secretary Chao and the Trump Administration for their dedication to improving Arkansas infrastructure,” Senator Cotton said.

“This project is vital to improving regional connectivity and economic viability in the greater Hot Springs area and these funds will help make it a reality. The bypass extension will provide an alternative route to access Hot Springs which should reduce traffic and enhance the historic, revitalized downtown in addition to the jobs and economic activity it will create during and after construction. I appreciate Secretary Chao and the Department of Transportation’s recognition of how worthwhile and significant this project will be for Garland County,” Senator Boozman said.

“The bypass in Hot Springs plays an outsized role in our region’s economy and movement of goods. This grant will further support and expand the bypass, creating opportunity for additional economic development in the Ouachitas. It will also improve response time for emergency services, which will save lives. I thank Secretary Chao and the Trump Administration for awarding this grant important to our region’s expanding infrastructure,” Congressman Westerman said.

“The Administration’s continued investment in infrastructure promises to stimulate economic investment, improve quality of life, and create safe, reliable transportation in our communities,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/members-of-arkansas-and-missouri-congressional-delegations-announce-25-million-grant-for-critical-segment-of-i-49,Members of Arkansas & Missouri Congressional Delegations Announce $25 Million Grant for Critical Segment of I-49,2018-12-06,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Caroline Tabler or James Arnold (202) 224-2353

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Tom Cotton (R-AR), John Boozman (R-AR), and Roy Blunt (R-MO), along with U.S. Representatives Billy Long (MO-07) and Steve Womack (AR-03), announced that $25 million in funds from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has been awarded to complete work on a critical segment of Interstate 49 that will connect Arkansas and Missouri.

The Arkansas/Missouri connector, often referred to as the Bella Vista Bypass, is the only portion of the more than 290-mile route between Kansas City, Missouri and Fort Smith, Arkansas that is not interstate quality. Traffic signals in Bella Vista and just across the state line in Missouri cause major traffic congestion and dramatically slow travel time.

The states have worked to complete this 18.9-mile section of I-49 at the Missouri-Arkansas line for more than 25 years. Funding for the project is being awarded from the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) program which is allocated for nationally and regionally significant projects.

“Interstate access heralds the continued economic growth of any area, which is why completing the Bella Vista bypass is vital for Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. Many businesses and future infrastructure projects depend on its finalization, and this funding will allow that project’s construction finally to move forward. I am grateful to Secretary Chao and the Trump Administration for their dedication to improving Arkansas infrastructure,” said Cotton.

“This is exciting news for Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. Securing these funds for this shovel-ready project has taken years of vigorous and persistent advocating from my team. Our hard work has finally resulted in funding for a project that will yield dividends when it comes to economic growth and quality of life in the region,” Boozman said. “I appreciate Secretary Chao’s leadership in recognizing the importance of a project that I have championed throughout my time in Congress.”

“Completion of the critical stretch of the I-49 Arkansas-Missouri Connector is 25 years in the making and I’m thrilled we’re one step closer to getting it done,” said Blunt. “Completing this project will increase safety, improve the quality of life, and strengthen local economies in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Missouri’s transportation networks are our greatest competitive advantage, and I appreciate the partnership of our Arkansas colleagues in moving this project forward.”

“The completion of the I-49 corridor is long overdue,” Long said. “Today’s announcement is great news for individuals and businesses in southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas who have been waiting for this for more than 25 years. I am incredibly thankful for my colleagues in both Missouri and Arkansas who have long been strong advocates of I-49's completion, and their understanding of the numerous benefits it will bring to local economies in both states.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-statement-on-nato-confirmation-that-russia-is-in-breach-of-inf-treaty,Cotton Statement on NATO Confirmation that Russia is in Breach of INF Treaty,2018-12-04,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement after NATO declared Russia in material breach of the INF Treaty:

""President Reagan deserves high praise for negotiating the INF Treaty more than 30 years ago, but the world is a different place today. Moscow has deployed intermediate-range weapons that can strike at the heart of Europe-in violation of their treaty commitments-while Beijing stockpiles missiles in an attempt to limit American action in the Pacific. We need to change old policies to ward off new threats. America must not allow our authoritarian rivals to build and deploy dangerous, destabilizing weapons while we keep one hand tied behind our back.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-warren-introduce-national-pow/mia-flag-act,"Cotton, Warren Introduce National POW/MIA Flag Act",2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Massachusetts) today introduced The National POW/MIA Flag Act, which would require the POW/MIA Flag to be displayed whenever the American flag is displayed on prominent federal properties, including the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, every national cemetery, the buildings containing the official offices of the Secretaries of State, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, the office of the Director of the Selective Service System, each major military installation (as designated by the Secretary of Defense), each Department of Veterans Affairs medical center, and each United States Postal Service post office. The senators introduced this bill to honor the more than 82,000 Americans who are listed as Prisoners of War (POW), Missing in Action (MIA), or otherwise unaccounted for from our nation's past wars and conflicts.

Under current law, the POW/MIA Flag is required to be displayed by the federal government on certain prominent federal properties only six days per year: Armed Forces Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, and Veterans Day. The National POW/MIA Flag Act will ensure that the POW/MIA Flag is displayed whenever the U.S. flag is displayed, effectively ensuring that both flags are displayed concurrently and every day at federal locations already designated under existing law.

""Over 82,000 Americans, including hundreds of Arkansans, remain missing from past wars,"" Senator Cotton said. ""They are not forgotten. It is my hope that this small gesture reminds Americans to honor those who left our shores and never returned.""

""All three of my brothers served in the military, and I understand the sacrifices our servicemembers and their families make to keep our country safe every single day,"" Senator Warren said. ""We must honor those who have served our nation courageously, including those who have not made it home. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan bill alongside Senator Cotton to ensure that this important symbol honoring our brave men and women is proudly displayed with the American flag.""

""The POW/MIA flag will be a symbol of our Nation's concern and commitment to resolving as fully as possible the fates of Americans still imprisoned, missing and the 83,000 plus unaccounted for from all wars,"" said Augustus Dante, President of the Rolling Thunder, Inc. National. ""As the POW/MIA Chair of Honor in the US Capitol, the POW/MIA flag flying over the Capitol will be a reminder to the families of our missing and the public that our government has not forgotten those that did not come home.""

""We appreciate the bipartisan support of Senators Warren and Cotton in introducing this bill that seeks to ensure our POW/MIA flag is posted 24/7 at all locations currently required by law,"" said Ann Mills Griffiths, Chairman and CEO of the National League of POW/MIA Families. ""Raising the symbol of America's commitment to account as fully as possible for US Veterans unreturned from past wars and conflicts signals worldwide that America stands with all who serve - past, present and future - and will pursue every reasonable effort to bring them home. ""

""The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is proud to support this proposal to display the POW/MIA flag prominently at all federal locations,"" said Patrick Murray, Deputy Director of Veterans of Foreign Wars. ""We must always ensure that those who sacrificed, especially those who were captured or have yet to come home, are remembered and honored proudly and publicly.""

This bill is endorsed by Rolling Thunder, Inc. National, Rolling Thunder Inc. Massachusetts Chapters 1 and 2, the National League of POW/MIA Families, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, and the National Alliance of Families for the Return of America's Missing Servicemen. Representative Leonard Lance (R - N.J.) introduced the original legislation in the House of Representatives on January 12, 2017.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:11:43Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-and-cheney-introduce-the-stopping-russian-nuclear-aggression-act,Cotton and Cheney Introduce the Stopping Russian Nuclear Aggression Act,2018-11-28,2018,2018-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and Congresswoman Liz Cheney (R-Wyoming) today introduced the Stopping Russian Nuclear Aggression Act to limit Russia's nuclear buildup.

""Vladimir Putin has spent a decade cheating on existing treaties like the INF, building up his nuclear arsenal, and rewriting the rulebook on the nuclear triad by introducing new ways of launching a nuclear attack. Russia's heavy advantage in tactical nuclear weapons-which are not bound by the existing START agreement-restricts our ability to deter aggression against the U.S. and our allies. It's clear the old START model isn't going to cut it. This bill ensures all, not some, of Russia's nuclear arsenal is on the table in the next round of negotiations,"" Senator Tom Cotton said.

""Under no circumstances should the United States agree to extend the New START Treaty beyond the current expiration in 2021 without drastic improvements to the deeply flawed deal negotiated by the Obama Administration. Over the past few years, we have seen Russia tout several new nuclear weapons delivery systems and it is unclear whether those systems will be bound by the limits of the treaty. Russia's large stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons and belief that these weapons can be used as a part of an ""escalate to de-escalate"" strategy is also extremely concerning. When these concerns are then viewed through the lens of Russia's long-term violation of the INF Treaty, it is clear that extending the New START Treaty is not currently in the national security interest of the United States. That is why I introduced the Stopping Russian Nuclear Aggression Act. This bill prevents funding to extend the New START Treaty until the President certifies to Congress that Russia has agreed to verifiably reduce its stockpile of tactical nuclear weapons and include its new systems under the limits of the New START Treaty,"" Congresswoman Liz Cheney said.

Background:

The New START Treaty is set to expire in 2021 and both countries may agree to extend the treaty for an additional five years.

Per the State Department website, limits under the New START Treaty include:

700 deployed intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), deployed submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and deployed heavy bombers equipped for nuclear armaments;

1,550 nuclear warheads on deployed ICBMs, deployed SLBMs, and deployed heavy bombers equipped for nuclear armaments (each such heavy bomber is counted as one warhead toward this limit);

800 deployed and non-deployed ICBM launchers, SLBM launchers, and heavy bombers equipped for nuclear armaments.

The 2018 Nuclear Posture Review states that:

Russia possesses significant advantages in its nuclear weapons production capacity and in non-strategic nuclear forces over the U.S. and allies. It is also building a large, diverse, and modern set of non-strategic systems that are dual-capable (may be armed with nuclear or conventional weapons). These theater- and tactical-range systems are not accountable under the New START Treaty and Russia's non-strategic nuclear weapons modernization is increasing the total number of such weapons in its arsenal, while significantly improving its delivery capabilities. This includes the production, possession, and flight testing of a ground-launched cruise missile in violation of the INF Treaty. Moscow believes these systems may provide useful options for escalation advantage.

The 2018 Nuclear Posture Review further states that:

Most concerning are Russia's national security policies, strategy, and doctrine that include an emphasis on the threat of limited nuclear escalation, and its continuing development and fielding of increasingly diverse and expanding nuclear capabilities. Moscow threatens and exercises limited nuclear first use, suggesting a mistaken expectation that coercive nuclear threats or limited first use could paralyze the United States and NATO and thereby end a conflict on terms favorable to Russia.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-supports-new-zealand-and-146s-rejection-of-huawei,Cotton Supports New Zealand’s Rejection of Huawei,2018-11-28,2018,2018-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Contact: Caroline Tabler or James Arnold (202) 224-2353

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) today released the following statement after news reports that New Zealand rejected a proposal to use Huawei gear in its planned 5G mobile network:

“I commend New Zealand for joining their Australian neighbors in blocking Huawei from their 5G network. Thanks to U.S. leadership, the world is beginning to understand the risk that Chinese telecommunications companies pose to security and privacy. I urge all our allies to think twice before allowing the Chinese Communist Party to gain a foothold in their critical infrastructure.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/2018/11/22/cotton-statement-on-thanksgiving,Cotton Statement on Thanksgiving,2018-11-22,2018,2018-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement on Thanksgiving:

""Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours. Wherever you are, I hope you're surrounded by family and friends. Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, for our families, for our many blessings as a nation, and for our troops who are far from home this day. We all have much and many to be thankful for.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z
https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases/cotton-cannot-support-early-release-of-dangerous-repeat-felons,"Cotton: Cannot Support Early Release of Dangerous, Repeat Felons",2018-11-16,2018,2018-11,Republican,Senate,AR,Tom Cotton,C001095,www.cotton.senate.gov,cotton,https://www.cotton.senate.gov/news/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) issued the following statement after fellow Senators released the text of the First Step Act:

""Unfortunately, the new text of this legislation reveals that what started as a prison-reform effort has transformed into sentencing reductions and early-release for dangerous, repeat felons, and I therefore cannot support this bill.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-06-27T23:10:16Z