Gov. Gordon is right about one thing: Wyoming is not Washington, D.C. But that truth alone does not excuse avoiding a serious conversation about spending discipline, accountability, and long-term sustainability.
The governor’s recent column suggests that questioning the size and growth of government is somehow reckless or rooted in political theater. That framing mischaracterizes the debate.
Fiscal restraint is not demolition; it is stewardship. Wyoming families and businesses are being asked to tighten their belts amid inflation, rising costs, and economic uncertainty. It is reasonable — and responsible — to expect government to do the same.
A balanced budget on paper does not mean spending is beyond scrutiny. Wyoming’s revenue remains heavily dependent on volatile mineral markets.
That reality demands caution, not complacency. Saving during boom years was wise, and ensuring those savings are not slowly consumed by unchecked baseline growth is wiser still.
Claims that targeted budget reductions will devastate schools, hospitals, or rural communities rely more on fear than facts.
Conservative legislators supporting a leaner budget have made clear we intend to protect constitutional and necessary functions of government while re-evaluating programs that lack measurable outcomes or duplicate efforts.
Asking agencies to justify results is not an attack on Wyoming values. If someone’s telling you it is, they are misrepresenting the issue.
Economic development does not hinge solely on government spending levels.
Businesses are drawn to Wyoming because of our work ethic, regulatory environment, community stability, and quality of life.
A government that demonstrates fiscal discipline, transparency, and restraint sends a powerful message: Wyoming is serious about being a reliable long-term partner, not a spender of last resort.
Wyoming is not Washington, D.C. precisely because we insist on accountability, not rhetoric.
Honest debate about how tax dollars are used is not “nuts,” as the governor’s policy director claimed — it is an obligation owed to the people who fund this government.
Ann Lucas represents House District 43 in Cheyenne
