Although the primary election is still about five months away, a number of state legislators have confirmed this week they are running for reelection. A number already have challengers.
Incumbents
Earlier this week, Rep. Landon Brown, R-Cheyenne, announced he’s running for reelection to a fifth term in House District 9.
"Representing the people of House District 9 has been a true honor, and I am grateful for the trust and support of the community," Brown said. "I am proud of the progress we've made in securing funding for our schools, addressing transportation challenges, and supporting our military. There is still work to be done, and I am committed to continuing the fight for the betterment of our district and the state of Wyoming."
No candidates have announced they’ll run against Brown yet.
On Friday, Rep. Jared Olsen, R-Cheyenne, announced he’s running for Senate District 8. SD 8 is currently held by Sen. Affie Ellis, R-Cheyenne, who announced on Thursday she won’t run for reelection.
Olsen has served four terms after first being elected to the Legislature in 2016.
“For the past 8 years I have been blessed with the honor to serve the people of Cheyenne in the House of Representatives,” Olsen said in a press release. “In my tenure as a representative, I have been a relentless advocate for economic development, low taxes, a balanced budget, and educational freedom. It is more important than ever for our community to have a strong and experienced voice in the Senate to continue the fight for Laramie County businesses, families and our community.”
Rep. Bill Henderson, R-Cheyenne, confirmed to Cowboy State Daily earlier this week he’s running for reelection to a fifth term. He’ll be challenged by Cheyenne resident Gary Brown.
New Faces Enter The Ring
Natrona County commissioner Rob Hendry announced on Friday he’s running for Senate District 30 in Casper. SD 30 is currently held by Sen. Charles Scott, R-Casper, the longest serving member of the Legislature. Scott has not publicly announced if he’s running for reelection.
On Thursday, Casper resident Christopher Dresang became the first candidate to challenge a sitting member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus when he announced his candidacy for House District 35.
HD 35 is currently held by first term legislator Rep. Tony Locke, R-Casper. Locke confirmed to Cowboy State Daily he’s running for reelection.
Fellow Freedom Caucus member Rep. John Bear, R-Gillette, has also announced he’s running for reelection.
Over in southwest Wyoming, Rep. J.T. Larson, R-Rock Springs, has announced he’s running for a second term. Larson is the youngest member of the Legislature at 22-years old.
During my term, I have achieved significant progress in addressing the needs of our community,” Larson said in a statement. “From promoting fiscal responsibility to advocating for policies that prioritize the values important to our district and (an) eye towards investing for our future Wyoming generations, I have worked diligently to represent your voice in the state legislature.”
Earlier confirmations around the state include Cody Mayor Matt Hall (House District 24), Wyoming GOP National Committeewoman Nina Webber (House District 24), Sheridan resident Laurie Bratten (House District 51), Johnson County resident Mark Jones (House District 40), Wyoming GOP Executive Director Kathy Russell (House District 7), Cheyenne resident Gregg Smith (Senate District 4).
Leo Wolfson can be reached at leo@cowboystatedaily.com.
