Cook's political career began as a member of the Toledo, Ohio civil service commission.
In 1960, Cook unsuccessfully ran for Congress against Thomas L. Ashley,[1] and returned to city council following his defeat.
In 1966, Cook won a seat in the Ohio Senate, serving the 1st District.
He was reelected handily in 1970, but in 1971, Cook ran unsuccessfully for Mayor of Toledo.
[2] Following his tenure as an elected official, Cook remained active in the Toledo community.