Thomas Frank is an American author, political commentator, and cultural critic known for his insightful analysis of American politics and society. He gained prominence with his book, What's the Matter with Kansas?, which explores the political landscape of the United States and the reasons behind the rise of conservative politics in traditionally liberal areas. In addition to his writing, Frank is the founder of the Baffler magazine, which critiques contemporary culture and politics. He has also contributed to various publications, including Harper's and The New York Times, and is a frequent speaker on issues related to economics, politics, and social justice.