Contact: Caroline Rabbitt (202) 224-2353

Washington, D.C. - Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today released the following statement after meeting with Secretary of the Interior nominee Congressman Ryan Zinke:

"Congressman Zinke's service as a Navy SEAL and as Montana's representative in Congress make him an excellent choice for Secretary of the Interior. He understands that states need to develop their land and natural resources. During our meeting, we discussed how to produce more American energy and lighten the regulatory load of DOI bureaus, which is hamstringing Arkansas farmers, timber companies, and businesses. I look forward to supporting his nomination."