Sen. Cotton encourages individuals stuck behind Mideast cease-fire protesters to take action on their own

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) sparked controversy with his recent comments encouraging people to take matters into their own hands when dealing with streets blocked by protesters. The protesters were demonstrating against the American response to the Israel-Hamas war, causing traffic disruptions on highways across the country.

Cotton’s remarks were met with criticism, with many accusing him of inciting violence. Former President Obama’s speechwriter Jon Favreau called out Cotton for advocating vigilante violence and criticized his attempt to clarify the statement.

This is not the first time Cotton has faced backlash for his statements. In 2020, he wrote an op-ed in The New York Times titled “Send in the Troops,” advocating for the use of the National Guard to quell protests following the murder of George Floyd. The Times later admitted that publishing Cotton’s op-ed was a mistake.

Cotton has a history of taking a tough stance on law and order issues. In the past, he called for charges against “mob vigilantes” who defaced or destroyed statues, warning against the rise of mob rule in society.

The Hill has reached out to Cotton’s office for comment on the recent controversy. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.