He is also a Liberal Democrat politician, being a member of Bristol City Council from 1999 till losing in 2021, representing the Clifton East ward. He has served as Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure and as Lord Mayor of Bristol (2004–2005)[4] and as Deputy Leader of Council (2005–2006 and 2009–2012).[5] As of 8 May 2012, he was the leader of the Liberal Democrat Group and also Leader of the council. In November 2012, the position of Leader of the council was to be replaced by a directly elected Mayor of Bristol.[6] Which was won by Bristol 1st member George Ferguson.
Cook is the director of a small company that makes video and audio podcasts.[2]