Secretary of State Ed Buchanan submitted his resignation letter on Thursday to Gov. Mark Gordon, bringing an official end to his more than four-year term.
Although he originally said he would run for a second term, Buchanan accepted a district court judgeship in Goshen County this summer, a job he begins Monday.
Buchanan told Cowboy State Daily he found the Republican primary race to replace him “disappointing” due to the rampant misinformation spread, but he took the high road in his resignation letter.
“I am specifically grateful to the professional staff at the Secretary of State’s office,” Buchanan wrote. “They have been tremendous in helping me fulfill my duties as Secretary of State. Together, we have implemented new systems and processes that make us the envy of the nation.”
In 2018, the department implemented new physical and cyber security protocols and introduced new voting equipment. An audit conducted by his office during the August primary election came back clean with no issues of fraud or other irregularities.
“I would also like to acknowledge how much I value each of Wyoming’s 23 county clerks,” Buchanan wrote.
Buchanan has been adamant on multiple occasions that it is the state’s county clerks, not he, who run the state’s elections.
“Together, we have been working on the 2022 elections since early in the year, and just like the 2022 primary election, the 2022 general election is ready and primed for success,” he wrote.
Wyoming GOP Chairman Frank Eathorne and other leading members of the party implored Buchanan to stay on the job through the end of the general election process. Although he said he was flattered by this request, Buchanan said it is the staff members of his office and the county clerks who will ensure the election runs smoothly and that he could not postpone his judicial duties any longer.
On Sept. 24, the State GOP plans to meet and select three interim Secretary of State candidates for Gordon to choose from. Application packages must be submitted to the party by Wednesday.
Buchanan also complimented his office for growing revenue by 35% during his tenure, an amount eight times the department’s budget.
He also complimented the state’s top elected officials, Gordon, State Treasurer Curt Meier, State Auditor Kristi Racines and Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder, for their work. Buchanan served with these individuals on the State Loan and Investment Board.
“Working together, we have fulfilled our collective goal of strengthening our communities and improving citizens’ lives,” Buchanan wrote. “A sincere thank you to each one of you, for your kindness and civility over the years, even when our votes did not align on a particular issue.”
In his final words as Secretary of State, Buchanan thanked the people of Wyoming. After being appointed to the position in early 2018, Buchanan was elected by the voters later that fall.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve as your Secretary of State and to continue my service to you as a member of the judiciary.”
