In a sign of the respect for his bold strike at President Obama’s negotiations with Iran, and a realization that the 2016 GOP presidential field is light on foreign policy, some influential Republicans are shining the vice presidential spotlight on Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton, suggesting he would be the perfect running mate for candidates like Scott Walker or Jeb Bush.
“He fills the only real qualification of the job: he can take office if POTUS dies or is killed, and can lead in a crisis immediately. Tom would be a real asset to just about any Republican ticket,” said one key Republican.
“It’s not out of the question that Cotton could be a credible choice for VP. Paired with Jeb he could be conservative without scaring the liberal elements in that circle because of his youth and low-key style on social issues. Paired with Walker he dovetails with relevant experience. Paired with Marco he sets a clear theme of young, conservative leadership,” added another.
Cotton in uniform. Photo from HughHewitt.com
The just elected Cotton is white hot due to his letter to Iranian leadership warning that the current anti-nuclear talks with the Obama administration don’t have the full support of the Senate. Democrats have ridiculed the letter while Republicans have signed it.
The controversy had sparked talk of a Cotton presidential bid in 2020, a scenario that presumes Hillary Rodham Clinton would win next year.
But as it’s grown this week and some GOP advisors look at the weak foreign policy experience potential 2016 presidential candidates have, especially Walker, more have started to suggest Cotton as the running mate.
Secrets has even been shown a list being circulated among proponents of his pros and cons, but the focus has been on his strike at the Iran deal and his service in Iran and Afghanistan, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal.
“He is smart, tough and of good character and he has actual ground combat experience. Not a stinking JAG lawyer,” said another GOP fan who advised the Romney campaign in 2012.
Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner’s “Washington Secrets” columnist, can be contacted at [email protected].
