For years we have watched as Tom Cotton has put Arkansans and the rest of Americans in danger. Yesterday, April 16, 2024, Tom Cotton made public statements encouraging Americans to “take matters into their own hands” and “toss [protestors] overboard”. Cotton insisted that Arkansans would respond with violence, if we encountered these peaceful protesters, who are protesting American involvement in the war on Gaza. I am here to say we ask that he either be expelled from office, or resign. Calling for violence against Americans is not the leadership we want, or deserve. 

This is not the first time Tom Cotton has encouraged use of force when dealing with protestors. During the George Floyd riots, Cotton called to “send in the [National Guard]” despite the risk to civilians and black police officers. It shouldn’t matter if our politicians agree with us or not, Americans have the right to peacefully protest the things that they think aren’t right. Protesting is one of the few ways Americans have to spark change, and have their voices heard. We believe in the First Amendment, and the right to peacefully assemble. When a public official encourages violence against protestors, they begin to silence the people they disagree with. 

Don’t let Tom Cotton silence Americans. We demand for the Senate to expel Tom Cotton, before someone dies as the result of his irresponsible rhetoric.