Leo Wolfson
Leo Wolfson is the State Government and Politics Reporter for Cowboy State Daily and is based in Cheyenne. He is responsible for covering Wyoming politics on a federal and statewide level.
Leo led Cowboy State Daily's coverage of the 2022 Wyoming primary election, including the highly contentious race between former congresswoman Liz Cheney and her successor U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman. He also managed CSD's coverage of the 2023 State Legislature, which was by far the most extensive and timely media coverage of a legislative session in the state's history.
Before joining Cowboy State Daily, Leo was a general assignment reporter for the Cody Enterprise Newspaper in Cody from 2018-2022. Prior to that, he reported for a suburban newspaper outside Denver.
Latest from Leo Wolfson
2024 Is Shaping Up To Be The Year Of The Newcomer For Wyoming Elections
The 2024 election season is setting up to be a historic one in Wyoming with many candidates already announcing they’re running for the Legislature — and most of them newcomers.
Leo WolfsonApril 27, 2024
Reid Rasner Confident He'll Win Senate Primary Despite Barrasso’s Approval Rating
Sen. John Barrasso’s primary opponent Reid Rasner says he feels confident based on local polling data that he can win the Senate primary -- despite Barrasso having the highest approval rating in the U.S. Senate.
Leo WolfsonApril 26, 2024
Wyoming Delegation United In Saying No To $61 Billion For Ukraine War
All three of Wyoming’s members of Congress were united in voting against a $95 foreign funding package President Biden signed Wednesday that includes $61 billion to help Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Leo WolfsonApril 25, 2024
Wyoming State Senate Republican PAC Fined $5,000 By IRS
A political action committee supporting Wyoming’s State Senate Republicans has been fined $5,000 by the IRS over a tax filing discrepancy. State Sen. Brian Boner said it was a mistake in the paperwork.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Candidates Lining Up To Fill House Seat Of Four-Time Casper Incumbent
Two Republican candidates have already announced campaigns to run for House District 56 in Casper, a seat held by four-time Republican incumbent Jerry Obermueller, who recently announced he’s not running for reelection.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Freedom Caucus Blasts Barrasso For Supporting Warrantless Surveillance Bill
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is condemning Sen. John Barrasso for his support of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which continues the federal government’s authority to conduct warrantless surveillance on U.S. citizens.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Evidence Piles Up Showing Wyoming’s Secretive LLC Filing Laws Being Used For Fraud
A county-level investigation shows that Wyoming’s secretive business filing laws are allowing out-of-state entities to fraudulently co-opt addresses. In Sheridan, an address is the legal registered place for nearly 17,000 businesses.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Wyoming Conservative Firebrand Rep. Jeanette Ward, Opponent Already Slinging Mud
One of the most outspoken members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, state Rep. Jeanette Ward, has a challenger for her House District 57 seat — and they’re already slinging mud.
Leo WolfsonApril 23, 2024
Wyoming GOP Blasts Wilderness Bill Supported By Hageman, Barrasso, Lummis
At the state convention over the weekend, the Republican Party overwhelmingly opposed legislation - supported by Wyoming’s entire delegation -- that would open up thousands of acres of federal land to more uses.
Leo WolfsonApril 23, 2024
Big Tent vs Small Tent: Wyoming GOP Divided Over How Inclusive It Should Be
The turnout for the Republican State Convention has been smaller over the last few years. Critics say this is because party leadership has pursued a "small tent" philosophy which is much less accepting of a variety of viewpoints within the party.
Leo WolfsonApril 22, 2024
Wyoming Pro-Life Legislator's Website Taken Over By Planned Parenthood
Pro-life state Wyoming legislator Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams has had her campaign website URL taken over, and it now redirects to the donation page for the pro-choice advocacy group Planned Parenthood.
Leo WolfsonApril 22, 2024
Wyoming GOP Passes Rule To Kick Out County Precinct Members, But Is It Legal?
The Wyoming Republican Party passed a bylaw Saturday to remove county precinct committee members who don’t attend enough meetings. But some question whether it’s legal to remove people voted in during public elections.
Leo WolfsonApril 21, 2024
Teton County Man Says Luck Saved Him When Caught In Avalanche
Although he has no memories of the avalanche Jan. 12, 2024, Travis Halverson was flung for about 600 vertical feet down a slope through snow and trees like a ball in a Plinko board. He managed to get out despite breaking 10 bones in his spine, ribs, sternum and jaw, as well as a concussion.
Leo WolfsonApril 21, 2024
Wyoming Republican Party Censures Gov. Gordon; Gray Approves
After declining to even debate the topic, the Wyoming Republican Party censured Gov. Mark Gordon at its state convention on Saturday. Sec. of State Chuck Gray said he approved of the censure saying Gordon needed "accountability."
Leo WolfsonApril 20, 2024
Wyoming Republicans Advance Censure Against Mark Gordon
After some back-and-forth debate Friday, a committee of the Wyoming Republican Party advanced a measure to formally censure Gov. Mark Gordon.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2024
Potential Trump VP Pick Tulsi Gabbard Coming To Cheyenne This Summer
Tulsi Gabbard, a former congresswoman who left the Democratic Party and is on former President Donald Trump’s short list for vice president, will speak in Cheyenne this summer.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2024
Wyoming GOP Rejects ‘Liz Cheney Amendment’ To Kick People Out Of Party
After about eight hours of discussion and debate Thursday, the Bylaws Committee of the Wyoming Republican Party rejected a bylaws change nicknamed the “Liz Cheney Amendment” that would have allowed the state party to kick out members it doesn’t like.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2024
Wyoming’s Republican Governor Won’t Attend State GOP Convention
Citing prior commitments, Gov. Mark Gordon’s office told Cowboy State Daily that Gordon, Wyoming’s Republican governor, won’t attend the state GOP convention this weekend in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonApril 18, 2024
Radical Bylaw Changes Would Let Wyoming GOP Kick Out Members It Doesn’t Like
At its state convention this weekend, the Wyoming Republican Party will consider proposed bylaw changes that would allow the state party to kick out members for a wide variety of reasons.
Leo WolfsonApril 18, 2024
Wyoming GOP Says Water Tower Veto Was Retaliation, Possibly Unconstitutional
The Wyoming Republican Party is questioning whether Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of emergency money for a failing water tower in Wheatland was retaliation and questions whether he violated the state Constitution.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
It’s Official: Barrasso Wants Another 6 Years In US Senate
John Barrasso, Wyoming’s senior U.S. senator, officially announced Wednesday that he’s running for reelection to a fourth term in Congress.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
Hageman Presents Historic Articles Of Impeachment Against Mayorkas
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman was among the U.S. House members to deliver the historic articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to the Senate on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
Unhappy Weston County Commissioners Declare Vacant Wyoming House, Senate Seats
In a move some Wyoming legislators say “they have zero ability to do,” Weston County commissioners unhappy with their representation in the Legislature have voted to declare vacant state Senate and House seats.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
Supreme Court’s Ruling On Trans Surgeries For Kids Likely Bolsters Wyoming’s New Law
A Monday U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding Idaho’s ban on transgender surgeries for minors likely also bolsters Wyoming’s new law that does the same.
Leo WolfsonApril 16, 2024
Biden Nearly Unanimous Pick Of Wyoming Democrats
The Wyoming Democratic Party held its primary caucuses across the state Saturday and gave President Joe Biden 322 of the 324 state convention delegate votes. The other two votes went to Colorado resident David Olscamp and "uncommitted."
Leo WolfsonApril 16, 2024
PETA Holds Anti-Meat Protest In Wyoming, No One Shows Up
PETA held a protest at the Wyoming State Capitol on Monday to push for a tax on meat. The two humans dressed as cows had plenty of room to protest as no one showed up.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2024
Cheyenne Newcomer Runs For State House, Says Legislature Needs More Young People
A Wyoming native who’s lived in Cheyenne for about a year has announced he is running for the state House. The 31-year-old, who moved to Cheyenne from Sheridan, says the Wyoming Legislature needs more young people.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2024
Gordon Rejects Chuck Gray’s Voter Residency Rules
Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday rejected a slate of tighter voter registration rules proposed by Secretary of State Chuck Gray, saying Wyoming’s elections are “safe and secure.”
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2024
Yoder Residents Say Tons Of Dust From Sand Operation Is Choking Them Out
The mayor of the southeastern Wyoming town of Yoder said he’s at his wits’ end with a local sand processing plant that’s choking the town out with tons of dust, traffic and noise.
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2024
Hageman Votes Against Bill To Allow Warrantless Spying On Americans
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman voted Friday against a bill reauthorizing the Department of Justice to conduct warrantless searches on American citizens. The bill passed.
Leo WolfsonApril 12, 2024
Effort Underway To Rename Mount Woodring In Grand Teton National Park
A push is on to rename Mount Woodring in Grand Teton National Park because it’s named for a former park superintendent charged with attempting to rape a child in 1934.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2024
Chuck Gray Spearheads Effort For Guns In State Capitol, Other State Buildings
At a meeting of the top five elected officials on Wednesday, Chuck Gray proposed allowing guns in the State Capitol building and other state buildings. Gray said a lot of his employees want to bring guns to work but are currently not allowed due to.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2024
Analysis: Casper Republican Has Most Success Passing Bills In 2024 Session
A Cowboy State Daily analysis shows that Casper Republican Sen. Jim Anderson was the most successful in the Legislature in getting individual bills passed during the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2024
In Stunning Announcement, Senate VP Kinskey Won’t Run For Reelection
In a stunning announcement Wednesday, Wyoming Senate Vice President Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan, announced he won’t run for reelection to his Senate District 22 seat.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2024
Fort Washakie Democrat Wants To Flip Fremont County House Seat Back To Blue
Fort Washakie Democrat Ivan Posey has announced he’s running for the Wyoming Legislature in an effort to return House District 33 in Fremont County to blue.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2024
Total Eclipse A Huge Event, Even In Wyoming Where It Was Only About 60%
Although Wyoming wasn't on the path of totality for Monday's total eclipse like it was in 2017, plenty of people were looking to the sky around midday to see the eclipse, which was about 50% to 60% across the state.
Ellen Fike, Leo Wolfson, Coy Knobel & Andrew RossiApril 08, 2024
For 58 Years, Cheyenne’s Eli Trujillo Is A Barber’s Barber — And Still Cutting Hair
Eli Trujillo of Cheyenne has been cutting hair for 58 years and even at age 86, is still a barber's barber, actively cutting hair five days a week behind his familiar chair at the family barbershop.
Leo WolfsonApril 07, 2024
Park County Republican Party Censures Mark Gordon Over Vetoes
The Park County Republican Party censured Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday over vetoes the governor made to bills passed during the recent legislative session. The sharply-worded censure passed on a 62-24 vote.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2024
Well-Known Rancher Cat Urbigkit Announces Run To Replace House Speaker Sommers
Sublette County rancher Cat Urbigkit on Friday announced she’s running to replace House Speaker Albert Sommers in the Wyoming Legislature, who isn’t running for reelection. Urbigkit describes herself as being more of a Libertarian than Sommers.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2024
Controversial State Land Transfer In Sheridan County Killed By State Land Board
A 560-acre tract of pristine state trust land in Sheridan County will remain open to the public after the State Land Board on Thursday voted to kill the land swap. The meeting got off to a heated start with Chuck Gray and Megan Degenfelder exchanging barbs.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2024
Early Freedom Caucus Member Runs To Win Back Wyoming House Seat
Former state Rep. Bob Wharff of Evanston was an early member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus who gave up his state House seat in an unsuccessful run for the Senate in 2022. Now he wants that House seat back.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2024
So You Want To Be Wyoming Governor? It Helps To Be Male And Married With Kids
A Cowboy State Daily analysis of Wyoming’s 33 governors shows some interesting commonalities among the state’s highest office holders, including they’re almost always male, married and have kids.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2024
Former Legislator Who Lost By 12 Votes In 2022 Wants His Seat Back
Former state Rep. JD Williams of Lusk lost by just 12 votes in the 2022 Republican primary, the closest race for the Wyoming Legislature. Now the Lusk resident says he’s running to win back his seat from incumbent Rep. Allen Slagle.
Leo WolfsonApril 03, 2024
Legislators May Bring Back Blockbuster Property Tax Swap For Sales Tax Increase
A highlight from Monday’s Management Council meeting is that the Senate Revenue Committee may bring back a blockbuster proposal that would eliminate property taxes for 97% of homeowners in return for an increase in sales tax.
Leo WolfsonApril 02, 2024
Company Behind Trump’s Flashy Gold High-Top Sneakers Registered In Wyoming
A law firm that’s helped set up more than 5,000 limited liability companies in Wyoming is the registered agent for former President Donald Trump’s flashy gold high-top sneakers, which sold out at $399 a pair.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2024
Freedom Caucus Endorses Candidates In University Of Wyoming Student Election
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus has taken the unprecedented step of endorsing two candidates in the upcoming student government election at the University of Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2024
No Special Session: Wyoming Legislature Votes Down Extra Time To Undo Gordon Vetoes
By a 50-43 vote, the Wyoming Legislature on Sunday rejected a proposal to call a special session to override some of the vetoes Gov. Mark Gordon made to bills passed during the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2024
Wyoming History: First Female State Senator Anti-Prohibition, Pro Veteran's Hospital
Wyoming’s first female state senator Dora McGrath had a colorful life. She helped lead the fight against prohibition, was nearly gunned down in a street fight, and is the legislator primarily responsible for the veteran's hospital in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonMarch 31, 2024
Legislative Council Says Gordon Should Reject Chuck Gray’s Voter Registration Rules
The Wyoming Legislature’s Management Council told Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday that he should reject Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s proposed voter residency rules. They say Gray doesn't have the authority to make these changes.
Leo WolfsonMarch 29, 2024
Chuck Gray Blasts Gordon For Vetoes On Property Tax Relief, Abortion, Gun Rights
In a fiery letter to Gov. Gordon, Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Thursday said the governor's vetoes on property tax relief, abortion, and the elimination of gun free zones are sending Wyoming "in the wrong direction."
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2024
Ex-Natrona County Commissioner Runs For Charlie Scott’s Seat In Wyoming Legislature
Longtime Natrona County Commissioner Rob Hendry has announced he’s running for Senate District 30. There’s just one obstacle — Charlie Scott, who’s been in the Wyoming Legislature since 1979.
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2024
Hageman Votes To Ban Pride Flags From Being Displayed At US Embassies
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman voted to prohibit LGBTQ Pride flags from being displayed at U.S. embassies. “An embassy is a country's highest level of diplomatic representation,” she said. “A pride flag is not our nation's flag."
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Will Vote On Calling A Special Session; Driskill, Sommers Oppose
Enough signatures have been tabulated Wednesday to officially call for a vote on whether to convene a special session of the Wyoming Legislature. Both Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers say they are opposed to a special session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
First Challenger To A Wyoming Freedom Caucus Seat In The Legislature Announces
House District 35 in Casper is the first seat in the Legislature where an incumbent member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus has a challenger for the Republican primary.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
What A Special Session Could Look Like For Wyoming Legislators
There have been loud demands for the Wyoming Legislature to convene a special session to undo Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of a property tax relief bill, but what could that look like?
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
Biden's Transportation Chief Cancels Wyoming Visit After Baltimore Bridge Falls
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg had been scheduled to visit Wyoming on Tuesday and have a private tour with Gov. Mark Gordon until a Baltimore bridge collapsed, canceling his plans.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
There’s More To Kendell Cummings Than Being The Guy Who Wrestled A Grizzly
Since October 2022, the world has known Kendell Cummings as the guy who jumped on a grizzly bear to save a buddy. But there’s more to the Evanston, Wyoming, native.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
About Face: Driskill, Sommers Now May Call Special Session For Property Tax Bill
After saying Monday morning they wouldn't call for the Wyoming Legislature to reconvene for a special session, Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers say they're now considering it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
Legislator Calls Gordon Veto Of Wheatland Water Tower ‘Vindictive,’ ‘Reckless’
State Rep. Jeremy Haroldson says Gov. Mark Gordon was “vindictive” and “reckless” in vetoing $2 million to help replace a failing water tower in Wheatland.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
Highest Heroism Award For Wyoming Wrestler Who Saved Teammate From Grizzly
A Powell, Wyoming, college wrestler who saved a teammate from a grizzly bear attack in 2022 — and himself was badly mauled — has been awarded the Carnegie Medal, North America’s highest award for heroism.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2024
Driskill, Sommers Won’t Call For Special Session To Overturn Governor’s Vetoes
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers said Monday they won’t comply with requests from some Wyoming legislators to call for a special session to overturn Governor Gordon’s vetoes.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2024
Why Tree Wells Are So Deadly For Skiers And Snowboarders
Two skiers have died in Wyoming in the past month after getting themselves caught in tree wells. The odds of surviving a tree well accident are incredibly low with an estimated 90% of people who get themselves stuck are unable to rescue themselves.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2024
This Week's Election & Re-election Announcements in Wyoming
A number of current state legislators have confirmed to Cowboy State Daily this past week that they’re running for reelection. Some have dropped out. Many already have challengers. Here's a quick look.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2024
Wyoming Joins Supreme Court Lawsuit On Trump Immunity
Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill has joined an amicus brief with two other state attorneys general asking the U.S. Supreme Court to establish a legal test for the limits of presidential immunity.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
Gordon Signs Bill To Give Money For Private Schools, But Cuts Income Threshold
Gov. Mark Gordon made a significant cut to a bill giving state money to parents who want to send their kids to private schools or to homeschool in Wyoming, but still signed it Thursday.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
Gordon Vetoes Property Tax Relief Bill, Calls It ‘Socialistic’ and ‘Bidenomic’
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a property tax relief bill Thursday that would have exempted 25% of assessed home value off Wyoming homes worth $2 million or less, calling it “a socialistic type of wealth transfer.” He signed three other property tax bills.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
University of Wyoming Won’t Cut Diversity Program Despite Legislature Defunding It
Despite the Wyoming Legislature stripping funding for the University of Wyoming’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) program, the university won’t cut it, President Ed Seidel told Cowboy State Daily on Thursday. He said the university could use its own money or private money to keep it going.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
Barrasso And Lummis Slam New Biden Administration EV Mandate
Sens. Barrasso and Lummis blasted a new Biden EV rule announced Wednesday that says gas-powered cars can make up no more than 30% of U.S. auto sales by 2032. They both vowed to overturn the mandate to protect consumer choice.
Leo WolfsonMarch 21, 2024
Affie Ellis, Wyoming's First Native Woman Legislator, Won't Run For Reelection
Affie Ellis, a Cheyenne Republican and first Native American woman elected to the Wyoming Legislature, has announced she won't run for reelection in the fall.
Leo WolfsonMarch 21, 2024
It’s Not A Conspiracy to Hide Wrecks, Those WYDOT Webcams Really Are Broken
Conspiracy theorists will be disappointed to learn that the Wyoming Department of Transportation doesn’t routinely shut off highway webcams when there’s a wreck. Dozens of them really are broken.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2024
Wyoming House Majority Whip Cyrus Western Won’t Run For Reelection
House Majority Whip state Rep. Cyrus Western, a Republican from Big Horn, confirmed to Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday that he won’t be running for reelection this fall.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2024
Wyoming Delegation Applaud Ruling Allowing Texas To Arrest, Deport Illegals
Wyoming’s congressional delegation applauded a Tuesday U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow Texas broad discretion to arrest and deport migrants illegally crossing the border.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
US Supreme Court To Consider Wyoming Election Buffer Zone Challenge
The U.S. Supreme Court will consider whether to hear a Wyoming First Amendment challenge to the state’s buffer zones restricting campaigning around polling places. If the high court hears the case, it could impact elections nationwide.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
Wyoming Clerk Says Gray's Office Doing Little To Promote Crossover Voting Change
For the first time this year, Wyoming primary voters can’t crossover vote. They have to decide party affiliation months earlier, by May 15. But a county clerk says Chuck Gray’s office is doing little to let people know about the change.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
Gordon Vetoes Bill To Deregulate Mining Over Casper Gravel Pit Amendments
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill Monday that would have deregulated some mining operations on state lands. He said the bill was hijacked by amendments aimed at solving a Casper gravel pit proposal.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
Legislative Watchdog Gary Brown To Challenge Cheyenne Incumbent Bill Henderson
Cheyenne resident Gary Brown says his state representative, Bill Henderson, snubbed him and doesn’t vote with the Republican Party line enough, so he’s running for Henderson’s House District 41 seat.
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2024
Sublette Is Fastest Growing County In Wyoming, Crook County Next
A new report from the Wyoming Economic Analysis Division shows Sublette and Crook counties are the fastest growing counties in the state while Carbon and Platte counties saw the largest decreases.
Leo WolfsonMarch 16, 2024
State Sen. Schuler Says She's ‘Had It’ With Mean, Divisive Politics In Legislature
Sen. Wendy Schuler, a fifth-generation Wyomingite, said she’s concerned with how many new residents of Wyoming are running for office. She said many of these people haven’t made an effort to understand Wyoming culture or beliefs.
Leo WolfsonMarch 16, 2024
Gordon Vetoes Bill That Carved Out $75 Million To Fight Feds
Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday vetoed a bill that would have carved out $75 million for Wyoming to fight federal overreach, including the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs Resource Management Plan. He said the bill was a "clear attempt to cross, blur and trample the line of separation" between the branches of government.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2024
Powell Musician Planning To Put 150 People On Box Cars For "Trump Train" Video
A country musician from Powell plans to put 150 Wyomingites on box cars for his “Trump Train 2024,” music video which he is shooting this spring. He hopes his video gets noticed and the former president will use it during the campaign.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2024
How Frugal Wyoming’s Next Budget Is Depends On Who You Ask
There’s a $1 billion disagreement among state legislators about the real cost of the final budget passed last week by the State Legislature. This debate, and who wins it, could highly influence the upcoming election season.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2024
Recent Wyoming Transplant And Gun Lobbyist To Run For Barry Crago’s Seat
Mark Jones, a guns rights lobbyist who moved to Wyoming from North Carolina in 2021, announced Monday he’s running for the seat now held by Buffalo Republican Barry Crago in the state House.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2024
Wyoming’s Republican Factions Face Off For Battleground GOP Primary
Now that the 2024 legislative session is over, Wyoming’s political focus shifts to the Republican primary, which could be a battleground between the state Republican Party’s two main factions, the Wyoming Caucus and the Wyoming Freedom Caucus.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2024
Hageman Votes To Ban TikTok In The U.S. If Chinese Owner Doesn’t Sell
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman voted in support of legislation Wednesday that would ban the use of TikTok in America as long as it’s owned by a Chinese company. "TikTok is a clear and present danger to our national security,” she said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Sparks Already Fly In GOP Showdown Between Cody Mayor, National Committeewoman
A Republican showdown between Cody Mayor Matt Hall and GOP National Committeewoman Nina Webber is already getting personal as they square off for a potential swing seat for the Freedom Caucus in the Wyoming Legislature.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Judge Tosses Lawsuit Seeking To Oust 4 Of 5 Sheridan County Commissioners
A lawsuit filed by the Sheridan County Republican Party seeking to oust four of that county’s five commissioners was tossed out by a judge Monday. The judge found the Sheridan GOP lacked standing to bring its lawsuit and failed to meet the burden of proof of any wrongdoing.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Former Colorado Political Operative Running For Wyoming Legislature
A former Colorado political operative has announced her candidacy for the Wyoming State House in Sheridan, and the seat of one of the most prominent members of the Wyoming Caucus, Cyrus Western.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Laramie County GOP Out Of State Party’s Doghouse, Raising Big Money
What a difference a year can make. That’s about how long it’s taken the Laramie County Republican Party to go from being an outcast and in the doghouse of the Wyoming Republican Party to hosting the upcoming state GOP convention in April.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2024
To Veto Or Not To Veto: Gov Gordon Has 55 Bills On His Desk
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon has 55 bills on his desk awaiting his signature, the veto pen, or he can allow them to go into law without a signature. They include a bills to outlaw gender change surgeries for minors, eliminate gun-free zones in the state, and state regulation of abortion clinics.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2024
Lummis Teams Up With Fetterman To Cut Red Tape For Federal Home Repair Money
In a rare show of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill, Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis is co-sponsoring legislation with Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman that would establish a five-year pilot program to make it easier for homeowners to get help with critical home repairs.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2024
Govs Freudenthal, Sullivan Praise Legacy Of Former State Auditor Dave Ferrari
Former State Auditor Dave Ferrari died last week at age 80. Wyoming Govs. Sullivan and Freudenthal praised Ferrari as a champion of government efficiency and transparency. "He was remarkably ethical," Fruedenthal said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2024
Wyoming GOP Director Kathy Russell Announces Run For Legislature
Kathy Russell, the executive director for the Wyoming Republican Party, announced Monday she’s running for the state Legislature for the seat held by veteran Cheyenne legislator Rep. Bob Nicholas. She is considered to be much more conservative than Nicholas.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2024
Legislature Passes Wyoming Property Tax Cap, Two More Tax Relief Bills
Wyoming homeowners may no longer have to fear large, unexpected increases on their property taxes after the Wyoming Legislature sent three more property tax relief bills to the governor’s desk for consideration Friday.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2024
Unless Gordon Vetoes Bill, Parents Can Spend Up To $6,000 For Private Schools
After some brief moments of tension, a bill giving Wyoming parents up to $6,000 per child to get private schooling advanced to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk Friday. The bill as passed includes all schooling from pre-kindergarten up to 12th grade.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Ends Contentious Session By Passing $10.6 Billion Budget
The Wyoming Legislature passed its $10.6 billion budget Friday, sending it Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk on the final day of the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2024
Senate Will Close Loophole That Allowed Driskill To Remove Committee Chair
The Wyoming Senate will close a loophole before the next legislative session that allowed Senate President Ogden Driskill to remove Dave Kinskey as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee last summer.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2024
Legislature Still Hasn’t Passed A Budget, But Gordon Already Makes Veto To It
The Wyoming Legislature goes into the last day of what’s been a highly confrontational 2024 session Friday without having passed a budget, but that hasn’t stopped Gov. Gordon from already vetoing part of it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Passes Bill To Ban Transgender Surgeries On Minors
The Wyoming legislature on Thursday passed a bill banning minors from receiving transgender treatments in the state. With the governor’s signature, Sen. Anthony Bouchard’s “Chloe’s Law” legislation will take effect July 1.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2024
Legislator Says Wyoming Freedom Caucus Is ‘Weaponizing’ House Roll Call Votes
State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, said members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus have been “weaponizing” the legislative process through the calling of roll call votes.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
Mixed Feelings In Wyoming Legislature About Budget ‘Compromise’
A budget proposal finalized Tuesday may face some serious pushback in the House and Senate when it’s presented to the full Legislature on Thursday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
First Property Tax Relief Bill Of The Wyoming Leg. Session Headed To Gordon’s Desk
The Wyoming Senate passed and sent the first property tax bill to come out of the 2024 session to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk for approval Wednesday, a bill that will cut property taxes for long-term homeowners by 50%.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
Schools Can’t Keep Info. From Parents As Gordon Lets Law Pass Without Signature
Gov. Mark Gordon let a bill pass without his signature Tuesday requiring Wyoming schools to notify parents about changes to their children’s health status and get permission to teach about sexual orientation or gender identity.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
Changing Of The Guard? Infighting Sharply Divides Wyoming Senate
The rise of a faction opposing Senate President Ogden Driskill’s leadership has become a significant factor contributing to escalating infighting that’s dividing the body.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2024
Day After Senate Shakeup, New Budget Finalized By Legislative Committee
It only took a day for a new Senate Joint Conference Committee of the Wyoming Legislature to strike a compromise with the House on the biennial budget after the previous Senate appointees had failed to strike an agreement after four days.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2024
Driskill Calls Effort To Revive Gun-Free Zone Bill "Absolutely Idiocy"
Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill said Tuesday’s move to override his ruling about reviving a bill to eliminate gun-free zones was “absolute idiocy” and the result of a “raw power struggle on the floor.” Sen. Dave Kinskey said it was nothing personal.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Hageman Says Bidens Are "Most Corrupt Family In Position Of Power in U.S. History"
Rep. Harriet Hageman, who played a key role in interrogating Hunter Biden last week, said the president’s son’s story doesn't add up. “You don’t pay a crackhead $1 million a year to be on a board in a foreign country unless you’re getting something for it.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Chaos In Wyoming Senate After Driskill Boots Budget Team
Members of the Wyoming Senate reached a boiling point Monday night over failure to bridge a $1.1 billion gap in budget negotiations with the House. Senate President Ogden Driskill then fired his budget team and replaced them with new members.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Ban On Trans Treatments For Kids In Wyoming Close To Becoming Law
A bill that would prohibit doctors from performing gender transitioning treatments on minors in Wyoming is close to becoming law. Sen. Anthony Bouchard's legislation passed a House committee on Monday and is all but certain to pass the House.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Hageman Applauds Supreme Court Ruling That Trump Can’t Be Left Off Ballots
Rep. Harriet Hageman told Cowboy State Daily she found the U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling Monday that former President Trump cannot be barred from states’ election ballots to be a “common sense decision.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2024
A Frustrated Driskill Says Wyoming Senate Has Become ‘Divisive, Mean’
Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill says he’s frustrated and very discontent with the state of affairs in the state Senate, which he says has become a “divisive, mean” group.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2024
Gordon Signs First Three Bills Of 2024 Legislature Into Law
On Friday afternoon, Gov. Mark Gordon signed the first three bills into law to come out of the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2024
Proposed One-Time 25% Property Tax Cut Would Include Most Wyoming Homes
A bill that would allow a one-time, 25% cut of property taxes for homes worth $3 million or less in Wyoming advanced Friday.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2024
Sponsor Of Bill To Pay For Private School Won’t Support It After Rash Of Changes
State Rep. Ken Clouston of Gillette said his educational savings account bill, which would give parents money for private schools, has been changed to the point that he won’t support it anymore.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2024
Trio Of Wyoming Property Tax Relief Bills Near Finish Line
Three property tax relief proposals were passed by a Senate committee Thursday, leaving only one more step before they head to the governor’s desk for review.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2024
Wyoming House Asks Senate To Add A Whopping $651 Million To Close $1 Billion Gap
The Wyoming House played its first move in the biennial state budget negotiating process on Thursday, asking the Senate to add a whopping $651 million in spending to help close a $1 billion gap.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2024
Wyoming Energy Industries Plead To Restore $350M Cut From Governor's Energy Program
Leaders of Wyoming’s energy industries are pleading with legislators to restore nearly $350 million slashed from the governor’s Energy Matching Funds program. Sen. Cheri Steinmetz disagreed calling it a "slush fund for the governor."
Leo WolfsonFebruary 29, 2024
Bill Sailing Through To Mandate Licenses for Wyoming Abortion Doctors, Clinics
A bill that would mandate Wyoming surgical facilities and doctors who do abortions be licensed is sailing through the Legislature with little pushback.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 29, 2024
House Speaker Sommers May Run For State Senate After Session
With Wednesday’s announcement by state Sen. Fred Baldwin that he won’t run for re-election, House Speaker Albert Sommers said he might run for Baldwin’s Senate seat.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 29, 2024
Wyoming Homeschool Parents Blast Plan To Give Money For Private Schools
Wyoming homeschool parents blasted a bill Wednesday that would create an education savings account to give money for kids to go to private schools citing concern it would set in motion a slippery slope of government regulation over homeschool education.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2024
Message Received: Driskill Makes Surprise Picks For Wyoming Budget Negotiations
Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill made some surprise picks to hash out the state budget Tuesday, saying the Senate “spoke really clearly that they wanted a conservative approach.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2024
Wyoming House Kills Bill That Would Have Eliminated Property Tax For Most Residents
The Wyoming House on Tuesday killed a high profile bill that would have eliminated property tax for 97% of state residents in exchange for hiking the sales tax by 2%. “The status quo is always protected,” the sponsor of the bill said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2024
Bill Banning Forced Use Of Preferred Pronouns Passes Wyoming Senate
A bill that would ban Wyoming state and county governments, along with public schools, from forcing people to use preferred gender pronouns passed the Senate on Tuesday and now moves to the House for consideration.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
In Rare Move, Gov. Mark Gordon Vetoes Chuck Gray’s Proposed ESG Rules
In a rare move for a Wyoming governor, Mark Gordon announced Tuesday that he’s line-item vetoing parts of Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s proposed rules for ESG investing.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
House Makes Massive Changes To Blockbuster Wyoming Tax Relief Bill
A property tax bill that would lead to a massive overhaul to Wyoming’s taxation system received some significant changes on Monday that soften the legislation and reduce Wyoming’s commitment to it.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Already Talking Special Session Over $1 Billion Budget Rift
A massive $1 billion rift between the Wyoming Senate and House versions of the budget is already fueling talks of a special session to hash it out.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
$40M For Wyoming 988 Suicide Hotline Barely Alive With $900 Million Gap To Fill
A bill that would have put $40 million into a trust for Wyoming’s 988 suicide centers failed last week. Meanwhile, a $40 million budget amendment for the same purpose is still alive, but barely as the House and Senate look to bridge a $900 million budget gap.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 26, 2024
Wyoming Property-Sales Tax Swap Barely Passes After Drama-Filled House Debate
A bill that would exempt about 97% of Wyoming homeowners from paying property tax in exchange for a 2% sales tax hike barely passed the state House on Friday after an emotional, drama-filled debate.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2024
Poll Shows Illegal Immigration Is No. 1 Priority For Wyoming Republicans
A recent survey shows that stopping illegal immigration is by far the most important issue for Wyoming Republicans.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2024
$900 Million Rift Separates Wyoming Senate And House Budgets
The Wyoming Senate and House both completed their biennial budgets late Thursday night with a massive fiscal rift of roughly $900 million separating the two. Last year’s supplemental budget featured a $30 million difference between the two chambers.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 23, 2024
House Hikes Benefits For Family Of Slain Sheridan Cop, But It’s Not Unanimous
Some Wyoming House members spoke against raising the death benefits for the family of a slain Sheridan cop Thursday, but it passed easily anyway.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 23, 2024
Wyoming Senate Axes $118M In Major School Construction Projects From Budget
On two close votes, the Wyoming Senate voted Thursday to cut the entire $111.8 million budgeted over the next two years for major school constructions projects.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
Amendment Ties Kelly Parcel Sale To Fate Of Controversial BLM Rock Springs Plan
The Wyoming House passed an amendment late Wednesday night that would tie the sale of the Kelly Parcel to the National Park Service to the fate of the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs management plan.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
‘Monolith Of Wokeness’: Senate Votes To Defund UW Gender Studies, Diversity Office
One of the most heated budget debates in the Wyoming Legislature on Wednesday was around amendments to defund the UW Diversity Office and Gender Studies program. Sen. Charlie Scott called the UW a “monolith of wokeness.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
Swapping Property Tax For Sales Tax Good For Wyoming Homeowners, Bad For Renters
A proposal by Rep. Steve Harshman of Casper that would swap property tax for 2% hike in sales tax for most Wyomingites is good for homeowners, but bad for renters.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
National Activist Chloe Cole Testifies Against Transgender Treatments For Minors In Wyoming
Activist Chloe Cole, who has "detransitioned" after receiving transgender surgeries as a minor, testified on Wednesday against the controversial treatments, saying "no adult has any right to do this to any child, whether it be a parent, a doctor, a counselor, anyone.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2024
Lummis Calls For Mayorkas Impeachment Trial
U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis on Tuesday demanded Minority Leader Mitch McConnell call a Senate trial into the impeachment of Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2024
Tempers Boil Over On Wyoming House Floor After Accusation Of Vote Swapping
Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers didn't hold back in chastising a Gillette legislator on the House floor Tuesday after he accused another member of “logrolling” — political speak for trading votes.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2024
Blockbuster Bill Would Eliminate Most Wyoming Property Tax, Hike Sales Tax 2%
Rep. Steve Harshman's blockbuster tax reform proposal that would eliminate most property tax in Wyoming in return for hiking the sales tax by 2% passed the House Revenue Committee on Tuesday. “Our people need this and want this,” he said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
Senate Committee Passes Bill Banning Credit Card Tracking Of Gun Purchases
A bill prohibiting financial institutions from assigning credit card codes to track firearms purchases in Wyoming advanced to the Senate on Tuesday. The bill passed the senate committee by a unanimous margin.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
Wyoming Senate OKs $2 Million To Help Texas With Border Fight
The Wyoming Senate on Monday approved a $2 million budget amendment as aid for Texas to secure its southern border with Mexico.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
Wyoming A Step Closer To Requiring Abortion Clinics To Be Licensed
Supporters of a bill requiring abortion clinics to be licensed in Wyoming say its purpose is to protect the health of women, detractors say it’s a ploy to restrict abortion more.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
172 Bills Axed -- Short Wyoming Budget Session Makes First Week A Legislative Massacre
With only 20 days allotted in a budget session, bills can die a quick death. After the first week of the 2024 session that was completed on Friday, 172 bills either failed to be introduced or were not considered at all.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 19, 2024
Lawsuit Claims Two Teton County Commissioners Conspired To Oust Fire Chief
A Jackson resident has filed a lawsuit against two Teton County Commissioners, claiming they conspired to get former Fire Chief Stephen Jellie fired and wants them removed from the commission.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 19, 2024
Handful Of Property Tax Bills Advance, Including 5% Cap On Year-To-Year Hikes
The House Revenue Committee advanced a handful of property tax relief measures Friday, including one that would cap year-to-year tax increases at 5%.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 17, 2024
Slain Sheridan Police Sgt. Krinkee Honored By Wyoming Legislature
The Wyoming Legislature honored Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee on Friday, who was shot and killed Tuesday in the line of duty. Sheridan’s loss is one “felt across our entire state,” said Senate President Ogden Driskill.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 17, 2024
Wyoming Caucus Blasts Freedom Caucus Republicans For Killing Firearms Bill
Rep. Barry Crago blasted the Freedom Caucus on Friday for voting against a bill aimed to protect Wyomingites from being tracked for buying and owning firearms. "The same legislators who claim to be principled staunch advocates for the Second Amendment then turn around and vote against it," he said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2024
Freedom Caucus Blasts 19 Republicans For Killing Bill To Define Genders
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus went on the offensive Thursday after 19 Republicans voted to kill a bill that officially defines what it is to be “female” and “male” in Wyoming as a person’s biological sex at birth.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2024
$40 Million For Suicide Hotline Trust Fund Bill Advances By 1 Vote
A proposal to put $40 million into a trust fund for Wyoming’s two 988 suicide hotline centers squeaked through the House for introduction Thursday, just barely meeting the two-thirds threshold to advance.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2024
Laramie Democrat Introduces Bill To Decriminalize Marijuana
State Rep. Karlee Provenza, D-Laramie, has introduced a bill to decriminalize marijuana in Wyoming. The likelihood of it passing is about zero for political reasons and the much higher threshold of getting a non-budget bill through a budget session.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2024
Freedom Caucus, House Dems Team Up To Kill Bill Outlawing Child Sex Changes
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus and five House Democrats formed an unexpected alliance Wednesday to torpedo a bill that would have prevented minors from receiving transgender surgeries in most scenarios in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2024
With Abortion In Wyoming Already In Court, New Bills Aim To Restrict It More
A handful of bills being considered in the 2024 legislative session aim to restrict, regulate or continue access to abortions in Wyoming, while its legal status continues to be fought in the courts.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2024
Gordon Orders Flags At Half-Staff For Slain Sheridan Police Officer
Gov. Mark Gordon on Wednesday ordered all U.S. and Wyoming flags be lowered to half-staff in honor Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee, who was shot and killed in the line of duty Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Wyoming Senate Committee Passes Bill Requiring Parents To Opt-In For Kids' School Health Services
A bill that instructs Wyoming public schools to notify parents about changes to the health status of their children, including help in gender-transitioning, passed the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday morning.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Legislature Wastes No Time Debating Property Tax Reform
After tackling Gov. Mark Gordon’s $10.8 billion budget, the largest issue for Wyoming legislators this session is property tax reform, and they wasted no time Tuesday getting into more than a dozen proposed bills.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Hageman Chosen As Impeachment Manager For Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas
Shortly after the U.S. House voted to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, it was announced Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman will be a Senate trial manager, if needed.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Down The Tubes: Wyoming House Kills Record 13 Committee Bills On Introduction
Some state lawmakers are upset that 13 committee bills were killed on the first day of the 2024 Wyoming Legislature on Monday, calling it a waste of state resources and potential money for communities.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
‘Incredibly Saddening’: Wyoming Reacts To Killing Of Sheridan Police Officer
Gov. Mark Gordon and area legislators expressed shock and sadness about the fatal shooting of a Sheridan police officer on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
Some Wyoming Republicans Say Gordon’s State Of State Full Of ‘Hypocrisy’
Gov. Mark Gordon said all the right things in his State of the State speech Monday, which has some Wyoming Republicans calling out as “hypocrisy” and inconsistent with his recent energy stances.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
‘Free Palestine’ Protesters At Wyoming Capitol Accuse Gordon, Hageman Of Genocide
About 40 people gathered outside the Wyoming Capitol on Monday to accuse Gov. Mark Gordon and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman of committing genocide by supporting Israel’s war with Hamas.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
Wyoming Senate Overturns Driskill, Reinstalls Kinskey As Appropriations Chair
Despite an emotional plea from Senate President Ogden Driskill not to overturn a decision he made to remove Dave Kinskey as chairman of the Appropriations Committee, they voted 17 - 14 to reinstall him on Monday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
Gordon State Of The State Address: Biden Threatening Wyoming's "Very Way Of Life"
In his State of the State address on Monday, Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon criticized President Biden's energy polices as “warped,” “unwise” and — borrowing from Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf — “unadulterated bovine scatology.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 12, 2024
Freedom Caucus Questions If State Agency Is Pushing Property Tax Bill
Leading members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus are concerned the Wyoming Department of Revenue may be lobbying county assessors to support a property tax that will be considered in the upcoming legislative session.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 11, 2024
$10.8 Billion Budget, 205 Bills To Start 2024 Wyoming Legislature Session On Monday
When Wyoming legislators begin their 2024 session Monday, they’ll start with Gov. Mark Gordon’s proposed $10.8 billion budget and 205 bills already introduced.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 10, 2024
Park County Citizens Push To Ditch Voting Machines In Favor Of Hand-Count Ballots
With the 2024 elections coming up fast in Wyoming, a group of Park County residents and state senator are reviving an effort there to replace electronic vote tabulators with the human hand-counts.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2024
Gordon Says Freedom Caucus Criticism Of Him Is ‘Misleading’ And ‘Vague’
A spokesperson for Gov. Mark Gordon says a Wednesday guest column by four members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus about Gordon’s proposed budget is inaccurate, “misleading” and “vague.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2024
Al Simpson’s 1986 Bill Was Last Bipartisan Immigration Law Passed By Congress
The Simpson-Mazzoli Act championed by former Wyoming Sen. Al Simpson in 1986 is the last major immigration reform bill passed by Congress. He says the only way to get meaningful immigration reform is for it to be bipartisan.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2024
Wyoming Legislator Wants All COVID-Vaccinated Blood Labeled
Rep. Sarah Penn is proposing a bill that would require all blood donated from someone who has received a COVID-19 vaccine to be labeled so blood recipients could then reject it if they want in non-emergency situations.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2024
Wyoming Will Keep Paying To Fight Indian Hunting Court Cases
The Joint Appropriations Committee decided Tuesday that it would continue to pay to help Wyoming counties litigate complicated Indian hunting cases, and other tribal disputes, in court.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2024
Wildfire Torches Wyoming Legislator’s Land; Says Rural Emergency Services Are Critical
Wyoming Rep. Dan Zwonitzer's said the wildfire which went through some of his land last week highlights the importance of volunteer firefighters in Wyoming and having rural emergency response services across the state.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2024
Anonymous Mailer Targets Chuck Gray Shortly After He Ok’s Other Mystery Mailers
A new anonymous mailer has surfaced targeting Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray, accusing him of being a RINO and abandoning Republican values. The mailer comes shortly after he determined a pair of unrelated anonymous political mailers were legal.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2024
Hageman Supports Bill To Allow National Guard To Use Lethal Force At Border
Wyoming Rep. Harriet Hageman supports legislation that would give the National Guard authority use lethal force against "armed invaders" crossing the southern border into the U.S.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2024
This Will Be The 12th Year Cale Case Will Try To Pass Medicaid Expansion For Wyoming
Wyoming State Sen. Cale Case has unsuccessfully tried to pass Medicaid expansion in Wyoming for 11 years now. Case says he will try again this upcoming legislative session.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2024
Shoshoni Post Office Close To Being Named For WWII Vet & Postmaster Dessie Bebout
Before she was the postmaster of the Shoshoni Post Office for 13 years, Dessie Bebout was one of the first Wyoming women to serve in the Naval Reserves in World War II. Congress is considering a bill to rename the Shoshoni Post Office for her.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2024
Hageman Says Trans Women In The Olympics Would Be ‘Despicable’
Saying transgender women competing in the Women’s Olympics would be “despicable,” Harriet Hageman is sponsoring legislation that would prohibit trans females from representing the U.S. in the Olympic Games.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2024
Wyoming Shouldn’t Buy Products Made With Child Or Slave Labor, Lawmaker Says
State Rep. John Bear is proposing legislation that would block Wyoming state government from buying products made with slave or child labor.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 05, 2024
Rita Watson Has Worked For The State Of Wyoming For 54 Years, And Has No Plans To Retire
Rita Watson has worked for the state of Wyoming for 54 years, mostly with the Department Of Education, where she’s worked for 11 superintendents of public education. She's 82, works 12 hours a day, and has no plans to retire.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 04, 2024
Some Cheney 'Never Trumpers' Now Support Trump; Others Won't Budge
There’s still hope among some Wyoming “never Trump” supporters of former congresswoman’s Liz Cheney that former President Trump won’t get the Republican nomination for president, but others have already switched to his side.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 03, 2024
Hageman Says $78 Billion Tax Bill Expands Welfare State, Helps Illegal Immigrants
Harriet Hageman voted against a massive $78 billion tax bill on Wednesday in Congress, saying it expands welfare and gives expanded benefits to illegal immigrants.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 02, 2024
Chuck Gray Says Denial Of $3.1 Million Filing System Upgrade Was Political
Secretary of State Chuck Gray is disappointed the Joint Appropriations Committee denied his $3.1 million request to upgrade the state’s online filing system, saying the decision “prioritized playing politics.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 01, 2024
Gordon's War On Carbon Escalates Feud With Some Wyoming Republicans
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon's war on carbon has escalated a feud with some in his own party who claim he’s turned on the state’s fossil fuel industries.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 01, 2024
Hageman Wants To Impeach Homeland Security Chief For Immigration Failure
Rep. Harriet Hageman on Wednesday said she’ll vote to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Biden’s immigration czar, for massive failure along the U.S. border with Mexico.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 31, 2024
Al Simpson, 20 Other Ousted Park County GOP Committeemen, Reinstated — For Now
Nearly two dozen Park County Republican Party elected precinct committee members booted from their seats five months ago, including former U.S. Sen. Al Simpson, are reinstated — at least for now.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 31, 2024
Bill Would Require Permission From Parents For Wyoming Kids To Use Social Media
Casper lawmaker Steve Harshman, a father of four and a high school teacher, says the potential for social media to harm kids should make it required in Wyoming for parents to give permission to use it.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 30, 2024
John Hines, 29-Year Lawmaker And Former Senate President, Dies At 87
John Hines of Gillette spent 29 years in the Wyoming Legislature, including a term as Senate President. He died Friday at age 87, and is remembered as a soft-spoken statesman who led by example.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 30, 2024
Lummis Says Freedom Caucus Wrong To Claim She Supports Carbon Taxes
Sen. Cynthia Lummis told Cowboy State Daily on Monday she has not, and will not ever, support a carbon tax, despite claims last week from the Wyoming Freedom Caucus accusing her of voting to sanction a carbon tax and buying into the "climate crisis."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 29, 2024
Chuck Gray Claims Press ‘Misleading’ Public Over Voter Residency Rules
In a lively hearing Friday about Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s new voter residency rules — which at times devolved into arguments among the audience — Gray accused the press of “misleading” the public about his proposals.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 27, 2024
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Third-Party Candidate For President, To Rally In Wyoming
Third-party presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., formerly a Democrat who's now campaigning as an independent, has announced a rally at the Cheyenne Little America on Feb. 7.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2024
Family Feud: Cousin Claims Legislator Voted In New Mexico While Living In Wyoming
Former state legislator John Romero-Martinez on Monday filed an ethics complaint against his cousin Rep. Tamara Trujillo, R-Cheyenne, for allegedly voting in New Mexico elections while living in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2024
New Group Says It’s Fighting Chuck Gray And Restrictive Voting Regulations
A new group called Wyoming FREE says it formed because its members felt compelled to fight Secretary of State Chuck Gray and election rules that they feel are overly restrictive. Gray calls the organization a "heavily partisan, radical left-wing group."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2024
Gordon Announces He Supports Texas' Efforts To Secure Border
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon was one of 25 Republican governors to sign a letter Thursday proclaiming support for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts to ignore the Biden administration and secure the U.S. - Mexico border.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2024
Douglas Woman Faces Murder Charge After Elderly Mother Dies
A Douglas woman who testified to members of the Wyoming Legislature in late 2022 about a land lease dispute is in jail, charged with second-degree murder for the death of her mother.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2024
Bobbi Barrasso, Wife Of Sen. John Barrasso, Dies After Bout With Brain Cancer
Bobbi Barrasso, a Wyoming native known for her acts of public service and wife of U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, died Wednesday after a two-year battle with brain cancer.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2024
Wyoming Judge Kelly Rankin Faces Senate Committee For Federal Judgeship
Wyoming’s Kelly Rankin, nominated for a U.S. District Court judgeship, breezed through his nomination hearing on Wednesday having to only answer one question. Other nominees were blasted by Sens. John Kennedy and Josh Hawley.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 24, 2024
Lawsuit Claims Sheridan County Commissioners Conspired To Rig Nomination
The Sheridan County Republican Party has sued four of five local county commissioners for allegedly conspiring against the nomination process to fill a vacant seat on the commission.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 24, 2024
Change In Law Would Mean No More 7-Year-Olds Starting Kindergarten In Wyoming
Evanston Republican state Sen. Wendy Schuler wants to lower the required age for children to start attending kindergarten in Wyoming from 7 to 6, which she says will set them up for greater success in their public school years.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 24, 2024
Riverton Lawmaker Wants To Crack Down On Internet Porn In Wyoming
State Rep. Sarah Penn is proposing a bill that would specifically add “visual depictions of rape or sexual abuse” to what is considered “obscene material” under the law.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 24, 2024
Natrona Republican Central Committee Hasn’t Met In Nearly A Year
The Natrona County GOP hasn’t had a meeting of its central committee in nearly a year. One disgruntled committeeman said at a recent executive meeting, they preferred to talk about a Casper mountaineer's latest climbing exploits instead of party business.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 23, 2024
Vastly Outnumbered, Wyoming House Dems Still Bring Back Bill To Protect Abortion
Despite the Legislature passing by an overwhelming margin last year two bills that prohibit most forms of abortion in Wyoming and being outnumbered 57-5, House Democrats are bringing back a bill to protect abortion.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 23, 2024
Legislature To Take Second Swing At Outlawing Transgender Surgeries For Kids
After the failure of Chloe’s Law last year, the Wyoming Legislature will consider another bill when it convenes Feb. 12 that would outlaw transgender surgeries for children.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 22, 2024
Wyoming Homeowners Want Property Tax Relief, But Disagree On How To Do It
A controversial property tax ballot initiative to cut assessed values by 50% is sparking a lot of debate about how to best address property tax relief in Wyoming without unintentionally paving the way for a state income tax.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 22, 2024
No Charges In Embezzlement Scandal In Guernsey, Wyoming
Although the Guernsey parks district was cleared of criminal embezzlement allegations by a Platte County Sheriff’s Office investigation over missing dance team money, the town is still abandoning the program.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 20, 2024
Gordon Picks Cheyenne Attorney Robert Jarosh For Wyoming Supreme Court
Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday selected Cheyenne attorney Robert Jarosh for the Wyoming Supreme Court. He'll fill the seat being vacated with the retirement of Justice Keith Kautz.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 20, 2024
Degenfelder: I Will Not Let Biden Weaponize School Lunch Programs For A New Welfare Program
In rejecting new federal funds from the Biden administration, Wyoming's education chief Megan Degenfelder said an expansion of food stamp options amounts to a weaponization of "summer school lunch programs to justify a new welfare program."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2024
No More "Snow Days" In Wyoming Schools? Technology Is All But Killing Them.
Snow days may be a thing of the past for Wyoming schools as 75% of Wyoming’s school districts now participate in temporary virtual education days. It allows school districts to forgo calling snow days and hold classes virtually instead.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2024
Legislative Committee: Kelly Parcel Is Worth At Least $100 Million
The Joint Appropriation Committee passed an amendment Thursday that urged the State Land Board to accept no less than $100 million from the feds to purchase the pristine 640 acres of land in Teton County known as the Kelly Parcel.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2024
Wyoming Legislators Used To Park Free Around Capitol, Now They’re Getting Tickets
Wyoming lawmakers used to get a special pass from the city of Cheyenne to park free around the Capitol complex and elsewhere in the community. Now, they’re getting tickets, but want their free passes back.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 18, 2024
With Trump’s Huge Iowa Win, Lummis Says GOP Primary Is Over
Sen. Cynthia Lummis believes former President Donald Trump’s historic margin of victory in the Iowa Republican caucus shows the race for the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election “is over.”
Leo WolfsonJanuary 18, 2024
Lummis, Hageman Cheer Defeat Of SEC ‘Land Grab Attempt’
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis and Rep. Harriet Hageman are declaring victory after the New York Stock Exchange announced it’s dropping a controversial proposal to sell shares of land that both lawmakers vehemently opposed as potentially disastrous for land management in the West.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 17, 2024
Wyoming Schools Will Get $200,000 From Robinhood Stock Scandal Settlement
Wyoming schools will get a $200,000 slice of a $10.2 million national settlement with investment app Robinhood over its long-term practice of promoting risky stock trading that harmed investors.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 17, 2024
Governor's Task Force Says BLM May Listen To Wyoming About Rock Springs Plan
A Governor’s Task Force charged with representing Wyoming interests on the controversial BLM Rock Springs Resource Management Plan finished its work last week and says it’s optimistic the BLM may be willing to change direction.
Mark Heinz & Leo WolfsonJanuary 17, 2024
Crook County Mailbox Nudist Prompts Lawmaker To Draft Genitals Intimidation Bill
Rep. Chip Neiman has drafted legislation that would make it illegal to intimidate others with their genitals. The bill is in response to a nudist who, when asked to put on clothes at a public mailbox center, responded by bending over and spreading his buttocks.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 16, 2024
Barrasso Out Of Hospital After Unexpected Surgery For Stomach Obstruction
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso is out of a Casper hospital and will stay in Wyoming this week as he recovers from unexpected surgery on Sunday to clear a painful stomach obstruction.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 16, 2024
Lummis Co-Sponsors Bill To Keep States From Banning Presidential Candidates From Ballots
In response to efforts in some states to remove former President Trump from the 2024 ballots, Sen. Cynthia Lummis has co-sponsored legislation that would prevent states from removing presidential candidates from their election ballots.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 16, 2024
Initiative To Tax Wyoming Property At 50% Valuation Facing Growing Opposition
Some legislators are worried that a proposed initiative allowing Wyoming homeowners to have their property taxed at 50% of its assessed value would create such a hit to state revenues that it would lead to a state income tax to fund Wyoming’s schools.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 13, 2024
Barrasso Supports Bill Making It Federal Crime To Block Roads And Highway
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso said he supports a bill in Congress that would make it a federal crime for protesters to block and close public roads and highways. The tactic is used often by radical climate protestors and pro-Palestine groups.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 13, 2024
Lummis Joins Barrasso In Endorsing Trump For President
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis on Friday announced she is endorsing Donald Trump for president. “Living in Joe Biden's America is a disaster,” Lummis said. “His open borders agenda has caused a crisis at the border and throughout the country like we've never seen before.”
Leo WolfsonJanuary 12, 2024
Wyoming’s Republican Factions Say They Want Compromise, But Can They Do It?
The Wyoming Caucus says it wants to compromise in the upcoming legislative session, which will require building alliances with the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, which has become a rivalry within the state Republican Party.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 12, 2024
Hageman, Other Wyoming Leaders Blast SEC Rule As Dangerous, Illegal ‘Land Grab’
Harriet Hageman and other top Wyoming political leaders are blasting a Securities and Exchange Commission proposal as a dangerous, devastating and illegal “land grab” that would allow investors to buy and sell stocks to tie up public and private lands.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 11, 2024
Radical Change To Wyoming Public Notice Law Would Put State Database Over Newspaper
A bill has been drafted for the upcoming 2024 legislative that would radically change a generations-old requirement that Wyoming public notices be printed in local newspapers and instead would create a state online database for them.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 11, 2024
Wyoming Rep. To Introduce "What Is A Woman" Act; Defines People's Sex By Biology At Birth
Casper Rep. Jeanette Ward will propose legislation entitled the "What Is A Woman Act" that would officially define in Wyoming law what constitutes a female and a male and would restrict these definitions to a person’s biological sex at birth.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 10, 2024
Teton County Plans To Use Public Money To Pay Lobbyist $108,000
The Teton County commissioners are planning to pay $108,000 a year in taxpayer money for a lobbyist to fight efforts such as a task force’s proposed plan to deregulate affordable housing in their community.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 10, 2024
Barrasso First In Senate Leadership To Endorse Trump
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso became the first member of Republican Senate leadership to endorse former President Donald Trump on Tuesday evening in his bid for president, saying the country was better off when Trump was president.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 10, 2024
New Rules Would Allow Ousting Wyoming Legislators Accused Or Convicted Of Felonies
A Wyoming legislative subcommittee has proposed new rules that would allow for ethics complaints to be filed against state legislators who are accused or convicted of felony crimes while in office.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 09, 2024
Freedom Caucus Mad That Wyoming Caucus Took Donation From Pro-Choice Plaintiff
The state director of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus is calling out the Wyoming Caucus for accepting a $1,000 donation from a pro-choice plaintiff in a lawsuit challenging the state’s new laws prohibiting abortions.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 09, 2024
Don Day Wyoming Weather Forecast: Tuesday, January 9, 2024
Subzero wind chills throughout Wyoming all day Tuesday. Snow in most areas in the afternoon and overnight. Winter storm warnings in southwest and south-central Wyoming, while most of eastern, southeastern, and south-central Wyoming are under high wind warnings.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 09, 2024
Wyoming Clerk Says She Won’t Certify Elections If Fraud Is Actually Proven
A convicted Jan. 6 participant in Gillette on Saturday implored Wyoming county clerks to not certify election equipment and results they believe are fraudulent. One longtime clerk said they wouldn’t, but fraud has to be proven, not believed.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 09, 2024
Wheatland Granted $1.6 Million To Replace Gigantic Failing Million-Gallon Water Tank
The State Loan and Investment Board on Monday gave Wheatland $1.6 million of the $7.5 million it requested for an emergency replacement of the failing 1 million-gallon water tank that could cause serious destruction if it ruptures and collapses and/or implodes.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 08, 2024
Don Day Wyoming Weather Forecast: Monday, January 8, 2024
Cloudy skies will gradually turn sunny across most of Wyoming on Monday with some snow showers. Snow showers will likely continue throughout the rest of the week across the state.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 08, 2024
Convicted Jan. 6 Participant Says Wyoming Counties Must Refuse To OK Bogus Elections
A former New Mexico county commissioner convicted for being at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, told Wyoming Republicans in Gillette on Saturday that stopping election fraud has to start at the county level.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 07, 2024
Video Vigilante Streams Cheyenne Crime In Real Time To Thousands Of Followers
A Cheyenne man who goes by the handle “Fubar on patroll” has thousands of subscribers to his YouTube channel, which livestreams overnight arrests and police calls in Wyoming’s capital city.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 06, 2024
Wheatland Desperate To Replace Failing 1 Million-Gallon Water Tank
A badly leaking 1 million-gallon water tank in Wheatland could cause destruction if it fails before it’s replaced. On Monday, the State Loan and Investment Board will consider a $7.5 million emergency grant to replace it.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 06, 2024
Judge Rejects Emails As Evidence Of Bias In Cody LDS Temple Lawsuit
A Cody neighborhood group is appealing a judge’s rejection of a trove of nearly 4,000 emails and text messages submitted in a lawsuit to show local officials were biased in approving a controversial LDS temple.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 05, 2024
An Election Off Year, Millions Raised And Spent On Wyoming Politics In 2023
Although 2023 wasn’t an election year, campaign finance reports show millions of dollars were raised and spent to support Wyoming political causes, candidates and lawmakers.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 04, 2024
Hageman To Run For Reelection To Fight Biden Administration 'Wretchedness’
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman announced her intent to run for reelection Thursday, saying she needs to continue her fight against President Joe Biden’s “wretchedness” and to continue to represent Wyoming interests and values.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 04, 2024
Prosecutors Want Prison For Wyoming Radio Mogul Who Hid $19.5 million From IRS
Federal prosecutors are urging a judge to sentence Cody businesswoman Susan Patrick, who co-owns Wyoming's largest chain of radio stations, to two years in prison after she hid $19.5 million from the IRS. Patrick is asking for house arrest.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2024
Fewer Arctic Birds Than Usual In Wyoming Because Of Unseasonably Warm Winter
Birds that migrate to Wyoming in the winter have been scarce this year due to the unseasonably warm temperatures throughout America and Canada, while birds with "no business" staying this late are lingering.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2024
Wyoming Harvard Grads Glad For President’s Resignation
Two Wyoming legislators who attended Harvard are pleased that the school’s embattled president resigned Tuesday amid controversy over plagiarism and earlier antisemitic comments but say the school has a long way to go.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2024
DA Says Video Evidence Crucial In Getting Conviction In Cheyenne Drive-By Killing
Laramie County District Attorney Sylvia Hackl credits video from surveillance cameras for helping a jury reach a guilty verdict last month against a 17-year-old who shot and killed a 15-year old girl in a drive-by shooting at a Cheyenne park.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 02, 2024
New Wyoming Laws: Higher Hunting Fees, Plans For Drug-Addicted Babies
The New Year triggers a pair of new laws in Wyoming. One raises nonresident hunting fees and the other mandates health care plans for babies born addicted to drugs or alcohol.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 02, 2024
Chuck Gray: Postal Service Plan To Move Services To Denver Could Impact Wyoming Elections
Secretary of State Chuck Gray is concerned that a U.S. Postal Service proposal to move processing and distribution operations from Cheyenne and Casper could negatively affect Wyoming’s election integrity.
Leo WolfsonDecember 31, 2023
A Look At The Three Finalists Named To Fill Vacancy On Wyoming Supreme Court
The Judicial Nominating Commission has named three finalists to fill an upcoming vacancy on the Wyoming Supreme Court: Tim Stubson, Stuart Healy III and Robert Jarosh.
Leo WolfsonDecember 29, 2023
Chuck Gray Wants More Rules To Establish Wyoming Voter Residency
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray has unveiled a new slate of proposed voter ID rules that would clarify residency, but critics say the new rules would supersede the Legislature’s authority.
Leo WolfsonDecember 29, 2023
Driver Blamed Crash On Wyoming Tesla Owner, But On-Board Cameras Busted The Guy
When the driver of a red Pontiac tried to blame a Wyoming Tesla owner for an accident, the Tesla owner knew what to do: go to instant replay. Because of the onboard cameras on his vehicle, the Tesla driver was vindicated.
Leo WolfsonDecember 28, 2023
Casper Abortion Clinic Arsonist Ordered To Pay Nearly $300,000
Lorna Green, the 22-year-old serving five years in prison for setting fire to a Casper abortion clinic in 2022, was ordered Tuesday to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution.
Leo WolfsonDecember 28, 2023
Wyoming Guardsman Wins Grueling National Soldier Of The Year Award
Spc. Luke Harrison, a Wyoming National Guardsman, came out on top of a grueling six-day physical and mental gauntlet in Alaska to win the nation's Soldier of the Year.
Leo WolfsonDecember 25, 2023
Lusk, Wyoming: When They Do Christmas Here, They Do It Together
The eastern Wyoming town of Lusk is true small-town Wyoming where everyone knows everyone, and all are family. It shows most this time of year, because when they do Christmas here, they do it together.
Leo WolfsonDecember 23, 2023
Cheyenne To Ask For $10M Loan To Kick-Start Large Housing Project Near F.E. Warren
Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins said the City of Cheyenne will apply for a $10 million loan from the State Loan and Investment Board for water, sewer, and road infrastructure to support a housing project near F.E. Warren Air Force Base.
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2023
Campbell County GOP To Host Convicted Jan. 6 Protestor As A Guest Speaker
On the three-year anniversary of the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol protest, the Campbell County Republican Party has invited a New Mexico man convicted for participating in the event as its guest speaker in a fundraiser titled “A Jan. 6 Prisoner’s Story.”
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2023
Cale Case Says Larger Counties Should Have More State-Level Party Influence
State Sen. Cale Case is sponsoring a bill for the upcoming legislative session designed to make population determine how many representatives county political parties have at the state level.
Leo WolfsonDecember 20, 2023
Serious Cyber Breach In Rawlins Could Have Been Prelude To Ransomware Attack
A serious breach of the city of Rawlins’ computer systems last month may have been a prelude to a ransomware attack, but was caught and plugged before any sensitive information was compromised or technology compromised.
Leo WolfsonDecember 20, 2023
Chuck Gray Blasts Colorado High Court For Banning Trump From Ballot
In an unprecedented decision Tuesday afternoon, Colorado’s State Supreme Court ruled that former President Donald Trump is banned from being on that state’s election ballots.
Leo WolfsonDecember 20, 2023
Biden Nominates Kelly Rankin As Wyoming’s Next Federal Judge
President Joe Biden has nominated U.S. Chief Justice Magistrate Kelly Rankin to replace Judge Nancy Freudenthal as a judge for the U.S. District Court of Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonDecember 19, 2023
Desperate To Fill Jobs, Wyoming Health Dept Wants To Reimburse Tuition
The Wyoming Department of Health is asking the Legislature for $500,000 to incentivize filling vacancies by reimbursing tuition costs for select new hires in critical roles.
Leo WolfsonDecember 19, 2023
Wyoming Native Who Lives In Jordan Protests Israel War Outside State Capitol
Larry McIlvain is a Cheyenne native who has lived in the Middle East for the last 25 years. Back home for a visit, he spent each day last week demonstrating outside the State Capitol in support of Palestine.
Leo WolfsonDecember 18, 2023
Hageman Rips Head Of SEC For Rule To Allow Foreign Land ‘Rights’
Harriet Hageman is hot over a proposed SEC rule that would allow foreign nations to buy undefined “rights” to certain private and public lands.
Leo WolfsonDecember 16, 2023
Sheridan County Land Swap Critics Worry 630-Acre Ranch Could Be Developed
A controversial proposed land swap in Sheridan County has some worried the state would eventually sell the 630 acres of prime ranch land for development.
Leo WolfsonDecember 16, 2023
Bill Would Help Struggling Wyoming Search And Rescue Groups Recruit Volunteers
Recruiting search and rescue volunteers in Wyoming is becoming more difficult, but the Legislature will consider a bill to help attract more by adding search and rescue to the state’s health insurance.
Leo WolfsonDecember 15, 2023
$1.2M From State Fuels Claims Jackson Is Lying About Housing Project
A $1.2 million state grant for an already controversial Jackson affordable housing project on Teton County Fairgrounds land is boiling over with accusations residents are being flat-out lied to, which town officials deny.
Leo WolfsonDecember 15, 2023
Barrasso Votes For Controversial Military Spending Bill, Lummis & Hageman Vote Against
In a rare splinter, U.S. Sen. John Barrasso broke off from fellow Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman on Wednesday night to vote in support of a critical military spending bill that was lambasted by some conservatives, saying he supports the military, not woke policies.
Leo WolfsonDecember 14, 2023
Hageman Says Biden Is Lying, Votes To Open Impeachment Inquiry
Rep. Hageman said she believes President Biden has been lying about his involvement in his son’s international business dealings. On Wednesday, she cast a vote to support opening a formal impeachment inquiry into the president, which passed the House.
Leo WolfsonDecember 14, 2023
Gordon’s Task Force, BLM Hold Closed-Door Meeting On Controversial Rock Springs Plan
After a closed-door meeting with the governor’s task force on the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs management plan on Wednesday, the agency’s state director says the BLM and public “aren’t that far apart” on finding a middle ground.
Leo WolfsonDecember 14, 2023
Wyoming Health Dept Wants $121 Million Increase On Top Of Its $2 Billion Budget
With no more federal COVID-19 money to shore up its budget, the Wyoming Department of Health is asking for a $121 million increase in addition to its $2 billion biennial budget.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2023
Hageman Won’t Support Military Spending Bill She Wasn’t Consulted On
Rep. Harriet Hageman said she is refusing to support a military spending bill, saying her colleagues in the Senate didn’t consult with her when bringing their version of the bill.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2023
Wyoming Alums Blast Harvard For Keeping President Who Condones Anti-Semitism
Harvard University alums in the Wyoming Legislature are condemning their former school for retaining its president even after she made remarks to Congress that anti-semitism on campus is acceptable in certain situations.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2023
Gordon Says His $9.9B Budget Defends Wyoming From Biden’s War On Fossil Fuels
Gov. Mark Gordon presented his $9.9 billion biennial budget to the Joint Appropriations Committee on Tuesday, an aggressive proposal he says hedges Wyoming’s bets against a Biden administration set on eliminating fossil fuels.
Leo WolfsonDecember 12, 2023
Cheyenne Political Newcomer Is First To Announce 2024 Candidacy For Legislature
Cheyenne resident Gregg Smith, who moved to Wyoming from Oregon, has no political experience, but has become the first person to officially announce for the 2024 election, challenging lifelong Wyomingite Tara Nethercott for her Senate seat.
Leo WolfsonDecember 12, 2023
Wyoming Capitol Has Largest Chanukah Turnout Ever, Attendees Say War Galvanized Support
Attendees of a Chanukah event at the Wyoming State Capitol on Monday say the attack on Israel was responsible for the largest turnout ever at the annual ceremony in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonDecember 11, 2023
Gordon Tells ’60 Minutes’ His Climate Stance Is ‘Well Respected’ In Wyoming
Featured on “60 Minutes” on Sunday, Gov. Mark Gordon admitted his stance that climate change is an urgent crisis has made his seat hotter with some Wyoming Republicans, but overall has “generally … been well-respected” in the Cowboy State.
Leo WolfsonDecember 11, 2023
Controversial Sheridan Land Swap Delayed A Fourth Time For New Appraisals
The State Board of Land Commissioners on Thursday delayed for a fourth time deciding on a controversial land swap in Sheridan County to get new appraisals after valuations have exploded in recent years.
Leo WolfsonDecember 09, 2023
Judge: Former Wyoming Schools Chief’s Bad Faith With Public Records Sets Precedent
A Laramie County judge ruled Friday that Wyoming's former schools chief and his staff acted in bad faith by deliberately dodging a lawful public records request in a case that sets precedent.
Leo WolfsonDecember 09, 2023
Two FE Warren Generals Promoted After Tuberville Ends Standoff Blocking Them
After a 10-month Senate standoff over an abortion rule initiated by President Joe Biden’s administration ended this week, two generals at F.E. Warren Air Force Base will finally receive their promotions.
Leo WolfsonDecember 08, 2023
Land Board Approves $1.2 Million For Affordable Housing In Jackson
A controversial plan to build affordable housing on the Teton County Fair and Rodeo grounds in Jackson was approved Thursday for $1.25 million in federal money, but not without criticism from some of the state’s top elected officials.
Leo WolfsonDecember 08, 2023
Wyoming Land Board Won't Auction Off Pristine Teton County Land -- For Now
The State Board of Land Commissioners on Thursday delayed taking any action on the controversial 640 acres of pristine land in Teton County known as the Kelly Parcel until at least next fall, saying it wants to explore options for a possible exchange.
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2023
Wyoming’s GOP Divide: Wyoming Caucus A Response To Far-Right Wing Of Party
A divide in the Wyoming Republican Party is growing more pronounced between the far-right Wyoming Freedom Caucus and conservative Wyoming Caucus. Wyoming Caucus member Cyrus Western says, 'We’re not going to tell [our members] how to vote.'"
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2023
Wyoming’s GOP Divide: Freedom Caucus Says It Has The Momentum
A divide in the Wyoming Republican Party is growing more pronounced between the far-right Wyoming Freedom Caucus and conservative Wyoming Caucus. The Freedom Caucus says its momentum is growing.
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2023
Hageman, Lummis Bash Biden For Committing To Ending Coal By 2035
Harriet Hageman, Cynthia Lummis and Gov. Mark Gordon are all bashing President Joe Biden this week for doubling down on his message to end America’s coal industry by 2035.
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2023
Chuck Gray Says He’ll Vote For State To Keep Kelly Parcel, Not Auction It
Secretary of State Chuck Gray said he’ll vote for the state to keep the Kelly Parcel, not auction it, when the State Board of Land Commissioners meet Thursday. Other member of the board haven’t said how they’ll vote.
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2023
Wyoming GOP Prepares For Divided, And Possibly Expensive, 2024 Elections
The Freedom Caucus and Wyoming Caucus have been raising money ahead of what promises to be a divided and contentious 2024 elections season within the state GOP.
Leo WolfsonDecember 05, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Plan Property Tax Reform Strategies In 2024 Session
Wyoming’s soaring property taxes have pushed some in the Legislature to the brink over recent years, but there are some solutions on the horizon that could bridge a compromise.
Leo WolfsonDecember 05, 2023
Wyoming Ranch Family Heartbroken After 11 Horses Die In Rural Barn Fire
A barn fire in Burns in eastern Laramie County early Sunday morning killed 11 horses, leaving a Wyoming ranching family devastated and heartbroken.
Leo WolfsonDecember 04, 2023
State Lands Office Recommends Auctioning Kelly Parcel, Starting At $80 Million
The Office of State Lands and Investments announced its recommendation Friday to auction off a pristine 640 acres next to Grand Teton National Park with bids starting at $80 million.
Andrew Rossi & Leo WolfsonDecember 01, 2023
Wyoming Supreme Court Chief Justice Says O’Connor Inspired Her Law Career
Wyoming Supreme Court Chief Justice Kate Fox says former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor helped inspire her law career. O’Connor died Friday at age 93.
Leo WolfsonDecember 01, 2023
Hageman Voted No On Expelling Santos Because He 'Has Not Been Convicted'
Harriet Hageman tried to save embattled New York U.S. Rep. George Santos’ on Friday morning, saying he “has not been convicted of any crime.” He was expelled from the House on a vote of 311-114.
Leo WolfsonDecember 01, 2023
Al Simpson Remembers Henry Kissinger
Former Wyoming U.S. Sen. Al Simpson has fond memories of the well-known former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger who died Wednesday.
Leo WolfsonDecember 01, 2023
Chairman Of Wyoming Democratic Party To Host Drag Show
Joe Barbuto, the chairman of the Wyoming Democratic Party, will host a drag show in Rock Springs on New Year’s Eve. Barbuto said he will not be performing in the drag show, however.
Leo WolfsonNovember 30, 2023
Laid-Off Wyoming Coal Miners Angry, Hurt To Lose Jobs They Love
Some of the 19 Wyoming coal miners laid off by the Black Butte mine this week say they’re angry and hurt to lose jobs they love, and that the company misled them to believe they had job security.
Leo WolfsonNovember 30, 2023
Wyoming Coal Mine Says Federal Roadblocks Forced Layoff Of 15% Of Workforce
Black Butte Coal Co. near Rock Springs, Wyoming, says continuing Biden administration roadblocks of a planned mine expansion has forced it to lay off 19 people this week, about 15% of its workforce.
Leo WolfsonNovember 30, 2023
Chuck Gray Contests Colorado Court Ruling That Trump Is An ‘Insurrectionist’
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray filed a brief with the Colorado Supreme Court on Wednesday, asking it to overturn a lower court’s finding that former President Donald Trump is an “insurrectionist.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2023
Liz Cheney Bashes Republican Party, Former Allies And 'Orange Jesus' In New Book
Liz Cheney says she doesn’t have much respect left for GOP leaders in an excerpt from her new book “Oath and Honor,” released Wednesday. She rails against Donald Trump, who she says one loyalist called “Orange Jesus.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2023
Wyoming Birds To Get New Names In Latest ‘Cancel Culture’ Move
A number of birds that can be found in Wyoming, and around 70-80 types of birds nationwide, will have their names changed as a result of a national cancel-culture push to stop naming birds after people.
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2023
National Poll Says Wyoming’s Mark Gordon Is Second Most Popular Governor
Despite recent criticisms of his trip to Harvard to discuss his efforts to battle climate change, a Morning Consult poll released Monday shows that Gov. Mark Gordon is the second most popular governor in America with an approval rating of 74%.
Leo WolfsonNovember 28, 2023
LDS Church Doesn’t Want 4,000 Public Records Admitted Into Temple Lawsuit
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said during a Monday court hearing that it opposes having nearly 4,000 public records and 19 affidavits added as evidence to a lawsuit opposing the church’s planned temple in Cody.
Leo WolfsonNovember 28, 2023
Hageman Says Biden’s Lead Ammo Ban An ‘Attack’ On Second Amendment
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says President Joe Biden hates American’s right to bear arms and is attacking this constitutional right with a lead ammunition ban in certain wildlife refuges.
Leo WolfsonNovember 27, 2023
After 32 Years In Prison, Cheyenne Man Making Up For Lost Time
Clarence Fisher hasn’t wasted a minute making up for lost time, and he has a lot to make up for. Fisher was released from the Wyoming State Penitentiary in Rawlins in 2020 after spending 32 years there. Now he owns his own business just bought his own home.
Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Target Creating Digitally Altered, ‘Deepfake’ Media A Crime
A state legislative committee advanced a bill Tuesday that will make the production of digitally altered, “deepfake” media a real criminal offense in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonNovember 22, 2023
Wyoming Writer Speculates How Democrats Could Expel Wyoming From The US
Author and Wyoming native Dallas Jones wants readers to consider an unlikely fictional scenario where a Democratic supermajority in Congress gets Wyoming kicked out of the U.S. because it has too few people.
Leo WolfsonNovember 22, 2023
Wyoming Bitcoin Miner Accuses Legislative Committee Member Of Chinese Ties
Things got a little testy during a legislative committee meeting this week when a Wyoming bitcoin miner accused a member of the committee of representing interests of the Chinese Communist Party.
Leo WolfsonNovember 22, 2023
Husband Of Woman Who Burned In Clark Wildfire Says Her Death Not An ‘Act Of God’
A man who lost his wife in a 2021 wildfire that ripped through the northwest Wyoming community of Clark asked a judge Tuesday to rule the fire wasn’t an “act of God” in his lawsuit against a pair of businesses for allegedly causing it.
Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2023
Gordon Changes Mind: Will Not Debate Legislators On Climate Change
After initially saying he was open and willing to debate, Gov. Mark Gordon on Monday declined a challenge by 30 state legislators to debate his “carbon negative” policy for Wyoming and if climate change is real.
Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2023
Wyoming Ski Season Off To Slow, Steady Start
It’s been a slower start so far to the winter season in Wyoming than last winter, but that doesn’t mean there won't be great skiing this Thanksgiving weekend and beyond.
Leo WolfsonNovember 20, 2023
Gordon Releases $9.9 Billion Budget; Calls For Putting $579 Million Into Savings
Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday released his biennial budget proposal which calls for socking away $579 million into savings and expanding Wyoming’s property tax rebate program by $20 million.
Leo WolfsonNovember 17, 2023
Uinta County GOP Haggles Over Unpaid $40,000 Legal Bill
A $40,000 legal bill incurred by the former leadership of the Uinta County Republican Party remains unpaid, and has hit the radar of the state party.
Leo WolfsonNovember 17, 2023
Jackson Abortion Clinic Closing Down
Inflation and a $9,400-a-month rent payment is forcing the Women’s Health and Family Care clinic in Jackson — one of Wyoming’s two abortion clinics — to close.
Leo WolfsonNovember 17, 2023
School Choice Or 'Crap Sandwich'? Education Savings Account Bill Passes Committee
A bill that would allow parents access to state money to pay for private education passed the Joint Education Committee this week. In the debate, however, one legislator called the bill a "crap sandwich."
Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2023
It’s OK For Wyoming Grads To Leave — As Long As They Come Back, Sommers Says
Speaking at the Governor's Business Form on Wednesday, House Speaker Albert Sommers said, the trend of Wyoming’s graduates leaving the state to find jobs and build lives isn’t the big problem many make it out to be, as long as they come back.
Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2023
Barrasso And Lummis Demand Biden Administration Stop Paying For Abortion Trips
John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis signed a letter to President Biden's Secretary of Defense denouncing its policy of paying travel expenses for military and their dependents to get abortions.
Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2023
Bill: Schools Must Notify Parents About Health, Including Gender Transitioning
The Joint Education Committee passed draft legislation Tuesday that, if passed, would require schools to inform parents about any changes made to their student’s health status, including gender transitioning.
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2023
Wyoming GOP Lawmaker Accused Of Disregarding God Censured By Party
Converse County Republican state Rep. Forrest Chadwick has been censured by his party, but says censures don’t hold much meaning anymore because the party is “handing them out like candy.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2023
New Transparent Political Site Rates Lawmakers Who Are ‘True Wyoming Conservatives’
A new political ranking website, which -- unlike most others -- is not run anonymously, was unveiled on Tuesday and with it is a political scorecard that rates lawmakers who are “true Wyoming conservatives.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2023
Gordon Says ‘Conservatism’ Key In Wyoming’s Fight Over Climate Change
In his message to open the 40th annual Governor’s Business Forum on Tuesday, Gov. Gordon said he believes that traditional “conservatism,” like growing the economy and embracing new technologies, is key in Wyoming’s fight over climate change.
Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2023
Lawmakers Kill Plan To Tax Property On Its Market Value, Not Assessed Valuation
The state Joint Revenue Committee killed a proposal Monday that would have taxed property on its market value instead of assessed valuation.
Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2023
Wyoming AG Says State Will Sue BLM Over Controversial Rock Springs Plan
Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill told the state Federal Natural Resource Management Committee on Monday that she expects the state will sue the BLM over its controversial Rock Springs management plan.
Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2023
Gunning For Senate President? Barrasso Has Raised More Than $2 Million This Year
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso has had a strong 2023 for fundraising, raising more than $2 million and setting the stage for what could be a push to lead the U.S. Senate in 2025.
Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2023
Judge Blocks Effort To Stop 5,000 Converse County Oil Wells
A federal judge has blocked an effort to stop the drilling of 5,000 new oil wells in Converse County, Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2023
Mark Gordon Accepts Challenge From Wyoming Lawmaker For Climate Change Debate
State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz, R-Lingle, and nearly 30 other lawmakers, have challenged Gov. Mark Gordon to debate climate change and the merits of his “carbon negative” policy. The governor said he’ll do it.
Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2023
GOP Firebrand Joey Correnti Nominated For Carbon County Commission
Well-known Wyoming politico Joey Correnti has been nominated to fill a vacant Carbon County Commission seat, but he must first beat out two other nominees to get the job.
Leo WolfsonNovember 10, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Resolve To Stand With Israel, Condemn Hamas
More than a third of the Wyoming Legislature signed a resolution Thursday supporting Israel in its war with Hamas terrorists.
Leo WolfsonNovember 10, 2023
War Brewing Over Possible Auction Of Pristine Wyoming State Land
A proposal to auction 640 undeveloped acres of pristine state-owned land in Grand Teton National Park has people drawing battle lines between development and conservation.
Leo WolfsonNovember 10, 2023
Wyoming Loves Trump: November Poll Shows 70% Still Support Former President
A recent mail-in poll by the Wyoming Republican Party finds that GOP support for former President Donald Trump hasn’t waned, with 70% backing him as the party’s 2024 nominee.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2023
Biden’s Education Chief Supports Trans Athletes, Local Control For Sex Books
In Wyoming this week, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona told Cowboy State Daily he supports Biden’s stance on allowing trans female athletes and Wyoming’s stance that sexually explicit books in school libraries is a local issue.
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2023
Michigan Football Staffer At Center Of Cheating Scandal Owns Wyoming Business
Embattled University of Michigan staffer Connor Stalions, who’s at the center of a high-profile cheating scandal, also owns a mysterious business registered in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2023
Hageman's Had Enough: Votes To Censure Tlaib For Supporting ‘Terrorist Organization’
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman on Tuesday night reached her limit with Democratic congresswoman Rashida Tlaib by voting to censure her for supporting a “terrorist organization.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2023
Exploding Visitation Numbers Has Yellowstone, Grand Teton Parks Near Critical Mass
The superintendents of Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks on Tuesday said drastic plans and investment are needed to handle explosive growth in visitation to the parks.
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2023
Secretary Of Ag Defends Biden's War On Cow Burps, Wants To Save Small Farmers
At the Western Governors’ Association meeting in Jackson on Tuesday, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack defended the Biden administration's push to reduce the methane output from U.S. cattle and the importance of saving America's small farmers.
Leo WolfsonNovember 07, 2023
Gordon Doubles Down On Climate Change And Wyoming’s ‘Carbon Negative’ Goal
Despite a vote of no confidence from the state Republican Party, Gov. Mark Gordon doubled down at Monday’s Western Governors’ Association meeting in Jackson on his goal for Wyoming to become “carbon negative.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 07, 2023
Wyoming GOP Passes No Confidence Vote Against Gov. Gordon
Meeting in Newcastle on Saturday, the Wyoming Republican Party Central Committee passed a “no confidence” vote against Gov. Mark Gordon, saying he “boldly turned” his back on the party for his climate change comments at Harvard University.
Leo WolfsonNovember 05, 2023
Wyoming Republicans Stand With Hageman On Tlaib Free Speech Stance
Republicans at Saturday’s Wyoming GOP meeting in Newcastle mostly expressed support for Rep. Harriet Hageman’s vote to not censure Democrat Rashida Tlaib for making antisemitic remarks.
Leo WolfsonNovember 04, 2023
Judge Squashes Lawsuit To Shut Down Wyoming Drilling Permits
Gov. Mark Gordon and other groups defending Wyoming’s oil and gas industries are praising a federal judge for squashing a lawsuit brought by environmental groups to negate 900 oil and gas permits.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Kill Fuel Taxes Despite $400 Million WYDOT Deficit
A pair of proposals for higher fuel taxes in Wyoming were shot down during a Joint Transportation Committee meeting on Friday despite the Wyoming Department of Transportation's $400 million deficit.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2023
Daylight Saving Time: Nearly Everyone Hates Changing Their Clocks But It's Still Here
Wyoming and 18 other states have passed legislation calling for making daylight saving time permanent — but only if federal law allows it. Federal regulations prevent states from adopting permanent daylight saving time on their own.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2023
Report Reveals Sexual Assaults Reports In The Wyoming Military Department Down 30% In 2023
At a legislative committee meeting on Thursday, it was revealed there were 11 incidents of sexual assault reported within the Wyoming Military Department in 2023 down from 16 in 2022.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2023
Text Messages Show Education Chief's Staff Did Not Feel Right About Political Event
Text messages show former Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder’s own staff was concerned about how he was planning a “Stop The Sexualization Of Our Children”political event in 2022.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2023
Hageman Surprises Some With Vote To Not Censure Tlaib For ‘Antisemitic Activity’
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman said she showed her dedication to the First Amendment on Wednesday when she voted against a proposal to censure Democratic congresswoman Rashida Tlaib.
Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2023
Centrist Political Group No Labels Wants On Wyoming Ballot In 2024
For the centrist No Labels political organization, getting on the 2024 Wyoming election ballot is a necessary step in its 2024 bid to have a candidate for president.
Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2023
Lummis Wants To Use Federal Land For Affordable Housing
Cynthia Lummis is co-sponsoring legislation that would allow Wyoming communities to more easily develop neighboring federal land into affordable housing.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2023
House Speaker Sommers Tells New York Podcaster He Won’t Be Intimidated
Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers said he won't be intimidated by others in the Wyoming Legislature during a recent interview on a New York podcast, another example of Wyoming politics and people getting national attention.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2023
Maury Brown, UW Super Booster And Wyoming Philanthropist, Dies At 90
Maury Brown was well known for his kind spirit and deep generosity, donating significantly to the University of Wyoming and many other Cowboy State causes. He died Monday at the age of 90.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2023
Wyoming ‘Locked And Loaded’ With $50 Million To Fight BLM’s Rock Springs Plan
Wyoming will be “locked and loaded” with a $50 million war chest to fight the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs management plan from a draft bill passed on Monday.
Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2023
Lawmakers Want To Make It More Difficult To Condemn Property For Wind Projects
A legislative committee passed two bills Monday that aim to give property owners more power in their negotiations with wind power companies, including restricting their use of eminent domain to force compliance.
Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2023
Cale Case Shuts Down Chuck Gray In Angry Exchange Over Election Bills
State Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, had enough of Secretary of State Chuck Gray during a legislative committee meeting Friday, shutting down Gray as they sparred over election bills.
Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2023
Barrasso And Lummis Vote To Ban ‘Misguided And Ineffective’ Mask Mandates
Wyoming Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis both voted to support an amendment that would prohibit the U.S. Department of Transportation from spending federal money to support public health mask mandates.
Leo WolfsonOctober 30, 2023
Cody Couple’s Self-Designed Geothermal Greenhouse Is Breaking New Ground
Cody residents Karl and Lynn Lampe have designed their own geothermal greenhouse that will use the earth’s internal thermostat to allow them to grow tropical fruits year-round in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonOctober 30, 2023
Group Challenging Cody LDS Temple Claims City Planner Manipulated Approval
A new filling in a lawsuit filed by a Cody, Wyoming, neighborhood group challenging a planned LDS temple alleges the city planner, who’s also a church member, manipulated its approval.
Leo WolfsonOctober 28, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers To Other States — Pay For Your Own Energy Decisions
A state committee advanced legislation Friday that would prohibit utility companies from charging Wyoming residents to pay for energy decisions made by other states.
Leo WolfsonOctober 27, 2023
Lawmakers OK Bill To Expand Wyoming’s Voter Intimidation Law
Members of the state Joint Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee approved proposed legislation Thursday that would expand Wyoming’s voter intimidation laws to include misdemeanor charges.
Leo WolfsonOctober 27, 2023
Freedom Caucus Slams Gordon For Climate Change Remarks At Harvard Visit
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is slamming Gov. Mark Gordon for speaking at a Harvard University event earlier this week, where he said Wyoming needs to urgently address climate change by going “carbon negative.”
Leo WolfsonOctober 27, 2023
Judge Not Inclined To Stop Town Of Burns From Evicting Restaurant From Building
Although he didn’t make a final ruling, Laramie County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Lee indicated Thursday he’s not inclined to intervene in the Rustic Plate Café’s battle to keep from being evicted from the building it rents from the town of Burns.
Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2023
Presidential Elections Would Be Exempt From Wyoming 30-Day Residency Voting Law
A legislative committee advanced a bill Thursday that would require people to live in Wyoming 30 days before they could vote in state elections. Presidential races would be exempt.
Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2023
Burns Restaurant Owner Sues To Keep Town From Evicting It
The owner of the Rustic Plate Café in Burns, Wyoming, is suing to halt an eviction from a building it had been leasing from the town.
Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2023
Hageman Pleased With Election Of ‘Solid Conservative’ Mike Johnson As Speaker
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman is pleased that Louisiana Republican Rep. Mike Johnson, whom she called “a solid conservative,” was selected as the new House speaker on Wednesday.
Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2023
CREG: Wyoming Can Expect Nearly $870 Million Surplus Through 2026
Wednesday’s release of the October CREG report shows revenues are up nearly $180 million from previous projections and an overall surplus of nearly $870 million is expected through 2026.
Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2023
Wyoming Religious Leaders Call For Peace In Middle East
A group of Wyoming religious leaders gathered at the Mt. Sinai Synagogue in Cheyenne on Monday to present a unified call for peace and end to the Israel-Hamas war.
Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2023
Kicker Who Destroyed Wyoming Record With 61-Yard Field Goal Also Leads Nation
Cheyenne South kicker Keenan Anderson’s monster 61-yard field goal not only set a new Wyoming state record, it leads the nation as the longest field goal this season.
Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2023
Silent Protesters Read Controversial Books During Cheyenne School Board Meeting
A group of Cheyenne parents and students held a silent protest of the Laramie County School District #1’s proposed change to its library books policy by reading controversial books during Monday’s school board meeting.
Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2023
Proposed Rocky Mountain Power 30% Rate Hike Is On Top Of Local Fees
A proposed hike of Rocky Mountain Power rates adds nearly 30% on top of the other utility fees many cities in Wyoming charge. In Mills, residents are about to see their city utility rate rise by 5%.
Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2023
Federal Court Rules Wyoming’s 100-Yard Election Buffer Zones Are Legal
In a Monday morning ruling, the federal 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Wyoming law restricting people from campaigning within 100 yards of a polling place is constitutional.
Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2023
Under The Radar Of LDS Temple Flap, Another Church Is Planned For Cody
As a controversial Mormon temple continues to dominate discussion in Cody, a Byzantine Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church has been under the radar as members plan to build a house of worship there.
Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2023
Hageman, Lummis Say Biden Using Support For Israel To Get Money For Ukraine
Harriet Hageman and Cynthia Lummis say President Joe Biden is trying to use America’s support for Israel in its fight against Hamas terrorists to back-door giving more money to Ukraine in its war with Russia.
Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2023
Cheyenne Daughters Of American Revolution Chapter OK With Transgender Members
After some members protested, the Cheyenne chapter of the national Daughters of the American Revolution organization has agreed to follow national rules to accept transgender women.
Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2023
Wyoming Owners Of Cabins On Forest Service Land Say Taxing Structure Unfair
People who buy cabins on U.S. Forest Service property follow the same federal rules and restrictions, but say it’s unfair they can pay wildly different property taxes based on what county is assessing them.
Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2023
Feds Cite National Security Concerns Over Wyo. Bitcoin Miners With Ties To China
Some Wyoming lawmakers say they share national security concerns about a bitcoin mining company with ties to China within a mile of F.E. Warren Air Force Base that’s drawing scrutiny from several federal agencies.
Leo WolfsonOctober 19, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Will Try Again To Restrict Chinese Land Ownership
After Arkansas announced it will force a Chinese state-owned company to sell its property there, a pair of Wyoming lawmakers say they plan to reintroduce bills they pushed this last session to restrict property ownership by adversary nations.
Leo WolfsonOctober 19, 2023
Wyoming Lawmaker Accused Of Voting Against God Avoids Party Censure
Accused by some in the Converse County Republican Party of dismissing the “oath that he made to God” and the party, State Rep. Forrest Chadwick avoided a formal censure Tuesday evening.
Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2023
Barrasso and Lummis Tell BLM To Back Off Controversial Rock Springs ‘Land Grab’
In a letter to the head of the BLM, John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis want the agency’s director to withdraw its preferred Rock Springs Resource Management Plan many say would kill many public and industry uses.
Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2023
Despite Her Record, Some Insist Lummis Is A Closet Marijuana Supporter
An anti-marijuana group in Wyoming doesn’t believe Cynthia Lummis when she says her support of the SAFER Banking Act isn’t an effort to back-door legalizing marijuana.
Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2023
Proposed Bill Would Give Legislature More Scrutiny Of Governor’s Appointments
Wyoming lawmakers considered a proposed bill Tuesday that would give the state Senate more power to remove people appointed to posts by the governor.
Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2023
Barrasso Endorses Conservative Arizona Firebrand Kari Lake For US Senate
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso has become the first in the Senate to openly endorse conservative firebrand Kari Lake in her newly launched bid to represent Arizona in the U.S. Senate.
Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2023
Wyoming Insurance Agent Claims Company Bilked Him Out Of Up To $225,000
Saying he was shorted as much as about $225,000 when he was fired, a Wyoming insurance agent is taking his claim to the Wyoming Supreme Court next month.
Leo WolfsonOctober 13, 2023
Wyoming Second Amendment Group Fined By State For Election Violation Wins Appeal
The U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Wyoming Gun Owners on Wednesday, which was fined over a provocative radio ad aired during the 2020 election cycle. The court ruled the election law the group was fined for is too vague.
Leo WolfsonOctober 12, 2023
Burns Residents Outraged As Town Council Evicts Popular Restaurant
Many of the 392 people who live in the tiny town of Burns, Wyoming, say they’re outraged that the town has evicted the popular The Rustic Plate restaurant after a lease dispute.
Leo WolfsonOctober 12, 2023
Wyoming Transplant In Israel Heartbroken As War Wages Around Him
Mike Krampner is a former Wyoming attorney who now lives in Jerusalem and said he’s heartbroken to watch war erupt after the terrorist group Hamas attacked Israel.
Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2023
Cheyenne DAR Members Fight National Organization For Allowing Transgender Women
Members of the Cheyenne chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution are fighting the national organization over a rule change that now allows transgender women into the group.
Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2023
Israeli Nationals In Wyoming Pray For Loved Ones After Hamas Attack
Wyoming residents and recent transplants from Israel held a peaceful vigil at the Wyoming Capitol on Monday, praying for family and friends threatened by a fast-escalating war with Hamas.
Leo WolfsonOctober 10, 2023
Lummis Says Activist Group’s Claim She’s Pro Pot And Anti-Gun A ‘Bold-Faced Lie’
An out-of-state activist group is accusing U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis of supporting marijuana legalization and trying to weaken gun rights, a claim her office says is a “bold-faced lie.”
Leo WolfsonOctober 07, 2023
LDS Temples May Be Controversial, But They Significantly Boost Property Values
Plans to build LDS temples with gigantic steeples often meet resistance from local communities, like what’s happening now in Cody, Wyoming, but once they’re built, all signs say neighboring property values get a significant boost.
Leo WolfsonOctober 06, 2023
Down To One Working Ambulance, Lusk’s Emergency Request Denied By State Board
The town of Lusk is down to one fully functioning ambulance, and will have to find some other way to get another one as the State Loan and Investment Board on Thursday rejected its request for an emergency grant.
Leo WolfsonOctober 06, 2023
Hageman Endorses Jim Jordan As Next US House Speaker
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman didn’t vote to oust Kevin McCarthy as House speaker, but said she endorses Ohio congressman Jim Jordan’s bid to replace him.
Leo WolfsonOctober 05, 2023
Liz Cheney Says Kevin McCarthy Deserved To Be Ousted
During an event in Minnesota on Wednesday night, Liz Cheney said former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy deserved to be ousted.
Leo WolfsonOctober 05, 2023
Tempers Boil Over As Chuck Gray and Curt Meier Spar Over Anti-Coal Investing
Gov. Mark Gordon had to intervene more than once during Thursday’s State Loan and Investment Board meeting to break up Secretary of State Chuck Gray and State Treasurer Curt Meier as they took verbal shots at each other over anti-coal investing.
Leo WolfsonOctober 05, 2023
Wyoming Considers Suing BLM Over Controversial Rock Springs Management Plan
It was revealed during a legislative committee meeting Wednesday that the Gov. Mark Gordon’s office is exploring its options for suing the BLM over its proposed Resource Management Plan in the Rock Springs area.
Leo WolfsonOctober 05, 2023
Thousands In Wyoming May Be Close To Being Dropped From Medicaid
With the COVID-19 federal emergency over, federal requirements preventing Wyoming from updating its Medicaid enrollment have been lifted. Now, the challenge is letting people know they have to reapply for coverage.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2023
Cody Zoning Board Members Think City Officials Misled Them On LDS Temple
A new court filing revealing emails and text messages between Cody Planning and Zoning Board members show they thought the city attorney and planner deliberately misled the board into approving a controversial LDS temple plan.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2023
In Historic Vote, Hageman A ‘No’ For Removing House Speaker McCarthy
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman couldn't save Kevin McCarthy’s job Tuesday afternoon as her “no” vote wasn’t enough to stop a historic move to remove McCarthy as U.S. House speaker.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2023
State Lawmaker Says Wyoming Is ‘Raping’ Residents With Property Taxes
State Rep. Bill Allemand didn’t hold back his displeasure with Wyoming’s property tax structure, telling the Joint Revenue Committee on Monday that the state is financially “raping” residents.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2023
Casper Legislator Blasts Pride Fest Support, Says LGBTQ Families Unnatural
In a Monday statement, state Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper, criticized publicly-funded Enroll Wyoming for supporting Casper Pride Fest and other LGBTQ efforts she said go against the concept of a nuclear family.
Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2023
Gordon Rejects $5 Million From Biden To Shut Down Oil Wells
Gov. Mark Gordon said Monday he will reject $5 million from President Joe Biden’s administration to shut down certain oil wells in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2023
Judge Allows New Evidence Showing Dept. Of Education Lied About Political Event
A Laramie County District Court Judge ruled Monday that new evidence showing the Wyoming Department of Education lied about spending public money on a political event will be allowed in a public records lawsuit.
Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2023
Hageman Wants Congressman Booted From House For Pulling Fire Alarm
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman wants New York Democratic Congressman Jamaal Bowman censured and expelled from the House for pulling a fire alarm during Saturday’s spending bill negotiations.
Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2023
Barrasso, Lummis and Hageman Split On Spending Votes To Avoid Shutdown
Wyoming’s congressional delegation was split on a temporary funding measure to avert a federal government shutdown, with U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman against the stopgap bill and Sens. Cynthia Lummis and John Barrasso voting for it.
Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2023
Former Super Bowl Champ, Cody Radio Host Russ Francis Dies In Plane Crash
Russ Francis, a Super Bowl football champion who recently lived in Cody, including a stint hosting a local radio show, died in a plane crash Sunday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2023
Governor Concerned About Horse Deaths At Wyoming Racetracks
Gov. Mark Gordon urged the Wyoming Gaming Commission on Thursday to get to the bottom of what has caused a rash of horse deaths at Wyoming Downs racetrack in Evanston this summer.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 29, 2023
5 Years For Abortion Clinic Arsonist, Who Claims Strict Parents Influenced Her
Lorna Green, 22, was sentenced to five years in prison Thursday for setting fire to a Casper abortion and transgender treatment clinic in 2022. She claimed strict, authoritarian parents influenced her.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 28, 2023
Wyoming Trona Mine Could Be First In US To Have Its Own Micronuclear Power Plant
Tata Chemicals announced Thursday it will study using micronuclear reactors to power its trona facility in Green River, which makes it the first company in the U.S. to pursue small-scale industrial nuclear power.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 28, 2023
Rocky Mountain Power Defends 30% Rate Increase After Hageman Calls It A ‘Sham’
Rocky Mountain Power responded Wednesday to criticism Rep. Hageman had over the 30% proposed increase in electrical rates. They said saying the increases are simply to cover the company’s costs and they don't make a profit on the costs.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 28, 2023
By Not Voting Party Line, Converse County GOP Says Lawmaker Goes Against God
The Converse County Republican Party will consider a resolution next month to censure Rep. Forrest Chadwick for not voting enough with the GOP party line and his “blatant disregard to the oath that he made to God.”
Leo WolfsonSeptember 28, 2023
Freedom Caucus Says Biden, BLM Policies Attempts At ‘Total Government Control’
Members of the Wyoming Freedom caucus say Biden’s 30x30 plan is the definition of tyranny and is playing out in Wyoming with the BLM’s Rock Springs Resource Management Plan. Together they’re efforts to gain “total government control.”
Leo WolfsonSeptember 27, 2023
Hageman Calls Biden Wire Transfers ‘Simple And Obvious’ Corruption
Rep. Harriet Hageman says Tuesday’s revelation that $260,000 in wire transfers from China to President Joe Biden’s home address in 2019 is an example of “simple and obvious corruption.”
Leo WolfsonSeptember 27, 2023
LDS Church Doesn’t Have To Wait On Court To Start Building Cody Temple
Although opponents of a controversial LDS temple planned for Cody are challenging it in court, there’s nothing stopping the church from building it.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 27, 2023
State Fire Advisory Board Says Wyoming Needs At Least 500 More Volunteer Firefighters
Shad Cooper, president of the Wyoming Fire Advisory Board, said Wyoming could use about 500 more firefighters around the state to be fully staffed.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 26, 2023
Lawmakers Crack Down On Helping Kids To Quit Smoking Without Parents Knowing
A legislative committee wants to make it illegal for children ages 12-17 to get health care treatment for tobacco or vaping without consent from parents.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 26, 2023
Hageman Wants Term Limits For Federal Employees
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman wants to limit how long rank-and-file employees can work for the federal government, in essence term-limiting them like elected officials are.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 25, 2023
Groups Claim Misinformation From Secretary Of State’s Office Kept Pot Off Ballot
Two marijuana advocacy groups and the Wyoming Libertarian Party are considering legal action over claims they were misled by the Secretary of State’s office about how many signatures were needed to get marijuana questions on the ballot.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 25, 2023
Lawmakers Scrutinize Teton County’s Government-Sponsored Housing Approach
The Wyoming Legislature’s Regulatory Reduction Task Force on Thursday debated whether it should draft legislation to crack down on government-sponsored affordable housing in Teton County.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 23, 2023
Domestic Violence Claim On Mayor Last Straw For Other Casper Council Members
Allegations former Casper Mayor Bruce Knell assaulted his wife caps off a nine-month term rife with controversy and charged comments that led to other City Council members to “forcefully” urge him to quit, which he did Thursday.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 22, 2023
Casper Mayor Bruce Knell Abruptly Resigns Over Domestic Abuse Claims
Casper Mayor Bruce Knell abruptly resigned Thursday in response to domestic abuse allegations made about him.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 22, 2023
Former US Sen. Al Simpson Among Purge Of 22 Park County GOP Precinct Seats
Longtime Wyoming U.S. Sen. Al Simpson was one of 22 elected precinct people ousted during a recent purge by the Park County Republican Party.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 21, 2023
Barrasso Wants To Keep National Parks Open If There’s A Government Shutdown
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland on Wednesday urging her to use entrance fees from national parks to keep them open in the event of a government shutdown.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 21, 2023
Republican State Rep. Calls Out ‘Cowardly’ Mailer That Blasts Him As Liberal
Buffalo Republican Rep. Barry Crago says whoever’s behind the anonymous mailer recently sent to Johnson County residents blasting him for not being conservative enough is “cowardly.”
Leo WolfsonSeptember 21, 2023
Two Wyoming Towns Go To Court Against Newspaper To Change Public Notice Laws
The towns of Mills and Bar Nunn say it’s time Wyoming’s public notice requirements catch up to today’s digital news landscape in response to a landmark lawsuit for cities and towns across Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2023
New Laws Could Expand Efforts To Solve Wyoming Cold Case Crimes
The Legislature’s Judiciary Committee advanced legislation Tuesday directing the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation to expand its efforts to investigate cold case crimes.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2023
Vacant Sheridan County Commission Seat Filled As GOP Seethes Over Process
After a highly contentious appointment process that drew threats of lawsuits and calls for arrests, Sheridan resident Holly Jennings was chosen to fill the empty county commissioner seat.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Want To Crack Down On ‘Marijuana Lite’
Through a loophole in state law, Wyoming officials say some people void prosecution for “marijuana lite,” a less potent version of traditional pot.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2023
Activist Says Riverton Woman Evicted Because Other Tenants Planned To Murder Her
A Wyoming civil rights activist said during a Monday meeting of the Wyoming Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights that a Riverton woman was evicted after other tenants threatened to murder her because she’s Black.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2023
Gigantic 101-Foot-Tall LDS Temple A Done Deal, As Far As City Of Cody’s Concerned
Barring intervention from a court, the city of Cody’s approval Monday of a planned 101-foot-tall LDS temple stands and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints can build.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 18, 2023
Threaten A Judge In Wyoming, Do Serious Time Under Proposed Law
Although there are already laws against harassment, threats and assault, the Wyoming Legislature is considering a bill that would specifically address people who do that with judges.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 18, 2023
Hageman Says Dems And GOP Can Agree That China Is A Threat To The US
While nearly halfway around the world from Wyoming, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says people here should care about China’s aggression toward small island nations and the threat it poses to the U.S.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 17, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Take Aim At ‘Deep Fake’ Artificial Intelligence Applications
As the use and sophistication of artificial intelligence continues to evolve, Wyoming lawmakers want to get ahead of the technology’s potential to produce “deep fake” AI to scam or intentionally mislead people.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 16, 2023
Democrats Want To Raise Wyoming’s Minimum Wage
A top state Democrat says many employers aren’t paying a livable wage and that the Legislature needs to act. But a Wyoming business group says let the market, not government, decide.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 15, 2023
With WyoRINO A No-Show For Debate, Panel Talks State Of Wyoming GOP
Whoever is behind the anonymous conservative political ranking website WyoRINO.com didn’t answer a challenge to debate Cowboy State Daily columnist Rod Miller on Thursday, which instead made way for a lively discussion on the state of the Wyoming GOP.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 15, 2023
Under Oath, Former Wyoming Education Chief Admits Lying About Political Event
Former Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder admitted under oath in court Thursday he lied to the press when he said public money wasn’t spent on a 2022 political event he hosted.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 15, 2023
Court Fight Over Proposed Cody LDS Temple With Giant 77-Foot Steeple Heats Up
A dispute over a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody that features a giant 77-foot steeple has taken another turn as the church is actively fighting a neighborhood group in court.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 14, 2023
Lummis Fights Mask Mandates, Other 'Controlling' Biden Administration Efforts
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis said President Joe Biden's administration is trying to "control" Americans through heavy-handed initiatives like mask mandates, restrictive Endangered Species Act rules and forgiving student loan debt.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 14, 2023
Who’s Behind The Curtain At Conservative Ranking Website WyoRINO?
A Cowboy State Daily investigation found some interesting connections and similarities behind the anonymous conservative ranking website WyoRINO.com and other conservative Wyoming political sites.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 13, 2023
Wyoming Delegation Supports Inquiry Into Biden Impeachment
Wyoming’s three members of Congress said Tuesday they support an official U.S. House inquiry into impeaching President Joe Biden.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2023
Wyoming’s Alarming Suicide Problem Focus Of New Documentary Film
A Casper native has made a Wyoming-focused documentary about how despite increased efforts and funding to prevent suicide, the Cowboy State continues to have one of the highest suicide rates in the nation.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2023
Wyoming Dems To Use Only Mail-In Ballots For Presidential Caucuses
In an effort to get a higher voter turnout, the Wyoming Democratic Party will rely solely on mail-in balloting to conduct its 2024 presidential selections.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2023
Casper Mayor, State Lawmakers Get Personal In Online Spat
Trading barbs at each other over the city of Casper’s growing problem with homelessness in social media got personal last week when Mayor Bruce Knell responded to criticism by calling a political rival a “complete idiot” and an “embarrassment.”
Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2023
Wyoming Democrats Worry Liz Cheney Crossover Voters Won’t Switch Back
At the Democratic Party's central committee meeting on Saturday in Newcastle, party members expressed worry that its super-minority status could become even more pronounced if they don’t address party apathy, including convincing party members who crossed over in 2022 to vote for Liz Cheney to cross back.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 09, 2023
Family, Friends Mourn Torrington Mother Who Died In Car Crash
The family and friends of Torrington resident Alicia Rodriguez, 44, who was killed in a crash on U.S. 85 last week, remember her as a mother and grandmother who loved to help others.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 09, 2023
Natrona Republicans Call Out Anonymous WyoRINO.com Owner To Debate
The Natrona County Republican Party is calling out the anonymous owner of WyoRINO.com for a debate next week with outspoken state political observer Rod Miller.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2023
Prostitution, Drugs As Responsible For Trashed Casper Motel As The Homeless, Says Shelter Director
The executive director of the Wyoming Rescue Mission shelter in Casper says prostitution, drugs as responsible for trashed Econo Lodge motel as homeless squatters.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2023
Hageman Wants To Cut Homeland Security Chief’s Salary To $1
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman said she would support an amendment that reduces Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas’ salary to $1 per year.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 07, 2023
Chuck Gray Warns New Hampshire About Leaving Trump Off Election Ballots
In a Thursday letter to his New Hampshire counterpart, Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray urges him to resist “Orwellian” pressure to leave former President Donald Trump off the ballot under 14th Amendment.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 07, 2023
Bitcoin Miner Warns Lawmakers Of ‘Chinese Takeover In Wyoming’
Cheyenne-based Bison Blockchain warned lawmakers at Wednesday meeting about Chinese companies taking advantage of Wyoming’s regulations to push locals out of business.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 07, 2023
Tall And Booming: Nels Smith Is Why There’s No State Income Tax In Wyoming
Standing 6-foot-7 with a booming voice, former Wyoming House Speaker Nels Smith was an enormous presence in Wyoming as the architect of a constitutional amendment that prohibits a state income tax in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2023
Indictment Shows 4-Month Delay In Prosecuting Wyoming Jan. 6 Suspect
More than two years after he allegedly participated in the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot, Bedford resident Douglas Harrington faces a laundry list of federal charges that could land him in jail for up to 75 years.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2023
State To Crack Down On Windy Driving, Violators Can Lose License On First Offense
The Wyoming Department of Transportation wants to reduce semitrailer blow-overs with weight restrictions and steep penalties for violators beginning next year, including taking licenses on first offenses.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2023
Former Wyoming House Speaker Nels Smith Dies In Head-On Highway Crash
Nels Smith, 84, former Wyoming House speaker and grandson of a former governor, along with his wife Jeanette, 85, were killed in a head-on crash on U.S. 85 north of Lingle on Friday. The driver of the other car also was killed.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 2023
Owner of Wyoming’s Largest Radio Station Chain Admits Hiding $19.5 Million From IRS
Susan Patrick, who co-owns more than 20 radio stations around Wyoming, has pleaded guilty to intentionally hiding $10 million in business receipts from the IRS and $9.5 million in personal income.
Leo Wolfson & Greg JohnsonSeptember 02, 2023
To Make Out-Of-State EVs Pay Their Way, Wyoming May Tax For Fast Charging
Wyoming’s Joint Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Committee wants out-of-state electric vehicles to pay their fair share for impacting state roads through a 4 cents per kilowatt-hour tax.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 02, 2023
Judge Will Choose From Rejected GOP Finalists To Fill Vacancy On Sheridan County Commission
A district court judge ruled Friday that she will only choose from the three rejected Sheridan County Republican nominees to fill a vacancy on the county commission.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 01, 2023
Effort On To Slash Property Tax Assessments By 50% In Wyoming
The Secretary of State’s office Thursday certified a ballot initiative that, if successful, would allow homeowners to have their property taxed at 50% of its assessed value.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 01, 2023
Witness Says Helicopter May Have Had Engine Trouble Before Crash At Cheyenne Airport
A witness to a UH-1 military helicopter attached to F.E. Warren Air Force Base that crashed at Cheyenne Regional Airport on Wednesday told Cowboy State Daily it appeared, and sounded, like it was having engine trouble.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 01, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Consider Fuel Tax Hike, Break On Registration Fees
A Wyoming legislative committee is considering a plan that would hike the state’s diesel fuel tax 5 cents a gallon and gasoline 2 cents in return for giving residents a reduction on their vehicle registration bills.
Leo WolfsonAugust 31, 2023
Another McConnell Freeze Puts Wyoming’s Barrasso In Leadership Spotlight
With Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s health in even more doubt after another awkward public freeze up on Wednesday, Wyoming U.S. Sen. John Barrasso is near the top of possible replacements.
Leo WolfsonAugust 31, 2023
Homeless Squatters Trash Casper Hotel, Getting Out Of Hand, Mayor Says
Damage that homeless squatters have caused to a local hotel as well as city staff having to clean up hundreds of pounds of human feces from public areas are a few symptoms of what some see as a growing problem in Casper.
Leo WolfsonAugust 31, 2023
Sheridan County GOP Livid Over Non-Appointment Of New Commission Member
A Sheridan County Commission meeting turned turbulent Tuesday when the four-member board rejected all three county Republican Party candidates to fill a vacant seat on the commission.
Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2023
Witness: Watching Military Helicopter Crash At Cheyenne Airport Was 'Pretty Scary'
A UH-1 helicopter from F.E. Warren Air Force Base crashed and flipped upside down on a runway at Cheyenne Regional Airport on Wednesday morning. A witness says watching it happen was "pretty scary."
Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2023
Long Shot For President Barnstorms Wyoming, Says George Washington Is ‘By My Side’
Walter Clapp is a 35-year-old Red Lodge, Montana, attorney who’s been barnstorming his way across Wyoming and other states says he should be the next U.S. president because George Washington is “by my side.”
Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2023
It’s Expected, But Livestreaming Public Meetings In Wyoming Isn’t Required
The pandemic has quickly accelerated efforts to livestream public meetings in Wyoming, which made not doing so for a Monday Joint Appropriations Committee meeting, a surprise for even some lawmakers.
Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2023
After More Opposition, Cheyenne Plastic Bag Ban Dies On Close Council Vote
In a close 5-4 vote, the Cheyenne City Council rejected a proposal to ban the sale of plastic bags in city limits on Monday night, but not before getting another earful from residents who opposed the plan.
Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2023
FAA Investigates Laramie Regional Airport Over User Complaints
The Federal Aviation Administration outlines in a letter that a number of complaints made by Laramie Regional Airport users are the focus of an active investigation.
Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2023
Many Won’t Criticize Wyoming Government Out Of Fear Of Retaliation
After people say they’re afraid to voice public criticism of state agencies, a Wyoming legislative task force is allowing anonymous feedback about how their government can be improved.
Leo WolfsonAugust 28, 2023
Historic Growing Season Leaves Southeast Wyoming A Sea Of Sunflowers
Goshen County sunflower growers and locals report the mild, wet summer has produced a prolific growing season for southeast Wyoming sunflowers.
Leo WolfsonAugust 28, 2023
Lawmakers Question If Wyoming Is Too Lax With Shell Corporations
Wyoming is considered to have some of the most private trust laws in the country, regulation that was put in place for the state to advertise itself as having a more business-friendly environment. Trust companies in Wyoming manage at least $31.5 billion in assets.
Leo WolfsonAugust 25, 2023
Case Wants To Expand Range For Charging Voter Intimidation As A Crime
State Sen. Cale Cale on Thursday say he wants Wyoming prosecutors to have the option to charge people with voter intimidation as lower- or higher-level crime, depending on how serious it is.
Leo WolfsonAugust 25, 2023
Case Concerned Crossover Voting Proposal Would Violate First Amendment
Sen. Cale Case on Thursday said he has First Amendment concerns over a proposal that would lock-in Wyoming voter registrations and party affiliations before candidates can start filing to run for election.
Leo WolfsonAugust 24, 2023
Chuck Gray Wants 30-Day Residency Rule To Vote In Wyoming Elections
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray urged state lawmakers Thursday to advance a bill that would require people to live in Wyoming for at least 30 days to vote in elections here.
Leo WolfsonAugust 24, 2023
Even Without 10-Cent Tax, More Angry Opposition To Cheyenne Plastic Bag Ban
A compromise to remove a 10-cent fee from a plastic bag ban in Cheyenne has done little to garner public support. One business owner said a plastic bag costs her about 1-2 cents, while a paper bag runs about 50 cents.
Leo WolfsonAugust 24, 2023
Wyoming's Swastika Lake To Get A Name Change
The executive director of the Wyoming Board on Geographic Names told Cowboy State Daily on Wednesday that the name of Swastika Lake outside Laramie is expected to be changed soon.
Leo WolfsonAugust 23, 2023
Buffalo Woman Says She Was Intimidated By Former Legislator At Polls
A Buffalo woman says she was intimidated by a former state legislator when she went to vote in 2021. A legislative committee will discuss the topic of voter intimidation when it meets Thursday in Douglas.
Leo WolfsonAugust 23, 2023
Wyoming Voters Say Inflation, School Choice Are State’s Top Issues
Former Wyoming legislator Tyler Lindholm is spearheading a statewide door-to-door campaign to find out what issues Cowboy State residents care about most. So far, voters say inflation and school choice.
Leo WolfsonAugust 22, 2023
Cody Group Files With Court To Block LDS Temple And Its 77-Foot Steeple
A group fighting a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody has filed a court petition intending to halt construction of the building and its controversial 77-foot steeple.
Leo WolfsonAugust 22, 2023
Trump Still Top Choice Of Many Wyoming Republicans — But Not All
Although former President Donald Trump appears to be the clear choice of Wyoming Republicans for president in 2024, there is some support for other GOP candidates.
Leo WolfsonAugust 22, 2023
Casper Republican Wants GOP To Put More Money Toward Ukraine Support
Casper Republican and former state lawmaker Tim Stubson says that although many in the GOP philosophically support Ukraine in its war with Russia, that support also needs to be financial.
Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2023
Fire Investigator Says Companies Responsible For Fatal Clark Wildfire
In a report released last week, an investigator blames a 2021 fire that killed a woman and burned multiple homes in the northwestern Wyoming town of Clark on a local electric company and tree trimming business.
Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2023
10 Horses Have Died At Wyoming Racetracks This Summer
Of the 10 horses that have died at Wyoming racetracks this summer, nine were at Wyoming Downs in Evanston.
Leo WolfsonAugust 19, 2023
Liz Cheney Slams Trump, Claims He Doesn’t Want People To See Jan. 6 Evidence
In her first public comments since former President Donald Trump was indicted for alleged election interference in Georgia, Liz Cheney says Trump’s afraid of Jan. 6 evidence.
Leo WolfsonAugust 18, 2023
Outrage In Cheyenne As City Considers Banning Single-Use Plastic Bags
Many Cheyenne residents are angry over a city councilman's proposal to ban single-use plastic bags and to charge customers for paper bags.
Leo WolfsonAugust 18, 2023
John Birch Society Says Wyoming Part Of Conservative Resurgence
The ultra-conservative John Birch Society was in Wyoming to tout a handful of Cowboy State Republicans for upholding the U.S. Constitution.
Leo WolfsonAugust 18, 2023
Cheyenne City Council Urges Wyoming Legislature To Decriminalize Marijuana
The Cheyenne City Council passed a resolution this week encouraging other municipalities to put pressure on the Wyoming Legislature to decriminalize marijuana. The Casper City Council addressed the topic on Tuesday, as well.
Leo WolfsonAugust 17, 2023
Cody Mayor Blocks Plan To Build Mormon Temple With Gigantic 77-Foot Steeple
In an unusual move, Cody Mayor Matt Hall has blocked a building permit for a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple that was approved last week. The major point of contention has been a gigantic 77-foot steeple that would be part of the building.
Leo WolfsonAugust 17, 2023
WHSAA Ready To Enforce Wyoming’s New High School Trans Sports Ban
The fall high school sports season has started in Wyoming, and that means no transgender girls can compete in girls' sports, a new law the Wyoming High School Activities Association says it’s obligated to enforce.
Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2023
County Clerks Respond To Eathorne: Wyoming Constitution Only Allows For Some Election Audits
In response to complaints from Wyoming GOP Chair Frank Eathorne that county clerks aren’t transparent enough, the president of the Wyoming County Clerks Association said the State Constitution does not allow them to perform election audits to the degree that they are done in some other states.
Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2023
Chuck Gray Warns Wyoming County Clerks About Outside Election Interference
Secretary of State Chuck Gray isn’t buying the “this doesn’t happen here” argument when it comes to election interference in Wyoming. He said," Wyoming remains especially vulnerable given our lack of a statutory ban on private funding of elections.”
Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2023
Cheney Blasts Tuberville For Holding Up Military Promotions Over Abortion
Former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney took to social media Monday to blast Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s protest of the U.S. military's position on abortion by holding up more than 300 promotions.
Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2023
Casper Man Launches Longshot Attempt To Unseat Barrasso For U.S. Senate
Casper resident Reid Rasner, who came in 7th place when he ran for city council in Las Vegas in 2017, officially announced his campaign on Tuesday to unseat U.S. Sen. John Barrasso in 2024. Barrasso is considered a frontrunner to replace Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell should he step down.
Leo WolfsonAugust 15, 2023
Eathorne Criticizes Wyoming County Clerks Opposed To Audits Of Election Results
GOP Chair Frank Eathorne was critical of county clerks who say audits of election results aren't necessary. “Why would you say that?" Eathorne said. "Let’s open the books. Let’s take a look. Let’s do one audit. Let’s do a spot check.”
Leo WolfsonAugust 15, 2023
State GOP May Seek $5,000 From Party Member Who Wanted Convention Expenses Returned
The Wyoming Republican Party may seek $5,000 from longtime party committeeman Jack Mueller who unsuccessfully sued in small claims court for reimbursement of $675 in 2022 convention expenses.
Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2023
Feds Arrest Wyoming Man For Attacking Police With Flagpole During Jan 6 Riot
Federal authorities have charged and arrested Bedford resident Douglas Harrington for allegedly assaulting Capitol Police officers with a flagpole during the Jan. 6, 2021 riots. He faces up to 75 years in prison.
Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2023
Casper Company Turns Military-Grade ATVs Into Consumer Vehicles To Battle Snow
Tracked Outdoors in Casper is the largest supplier of refurbished prized Hagglund all-terrain vehicles in America. They're expensive but after last year’s severe winter, business is booming.
Leo WolfsonAugust 13, 2023
Eathorne Says RNC Shouldn’t Give Money To Gay Rodeos
During a Wyoming GOP Central Committee meeting Saturday, Chairman Frank Eathorne said the Republican National Committee should not be giving money to gay rodeos and other LGBTQ causes.
Leo WolfsonAugust 13, 2023
Even In Deep Red Wyoming, Some Republicans Want Someone Other Than Trump
Although former Wyoming Republican state legislators Ray Peterson and R.J. Kost don’t like President Biden, both say they aren't big fans of former President Trump and hope another Republican wins the GOP nomination.
Leo WolfsonAugust 12, 2023
Surprise: Gigantic 77-Foot Steeple For Mormon Temple In Cody Gets Approved After All
By not specifically rejecting the 77-foot steeple that’s caused months of controversy, the Cody Planning and Zoning Board apparently has OK’d the initial Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple plan.
Leo WolfsonAugust 11, 2023
Proposal Would Allow Civil Lawsuits For Abusing Vulnerable Adults In Wyoming
A Wyoming legislative task force has drafted a bill that would open the state’s civil courts to pursuing justice for exploiting vulnerable adults.
Leo WolfsonAugust 11, 2023
Don Day Wyoming Weather Forecast: Friday, August 11, 2023
It’s Friday, August 11, 2023 and temperatures will remain near seasonal levels today, with generally light winds in parts of the Cowboy State. More of the same is expected through the weekend - so enjoy the beautiful weather!
Leo WolfsonAugust 11, 2023
Hageman Says FBI Made ‘Coordinated Effort’ To Label Catholics ‘Domestic Terrorists’
Rep. Harriet Hageman said a recent subpoena from the House Judiciary Committee shows multiple FBI field offices produced a memo targeting traditional Catholics as domestic terrorists.
Leo WolfsonAugust 11, 2023
Tale Of 2 LDS Temples: Casper’s On Fast Track While Plans For Cody’s Protested
Unlike a controversial Mormon temple planned for Cody, Wyoming, a similar structure being built in Casper hasn’t faced any opposition.
Leo WolfsonAugust 11, 2023
Don Day Wyoming Weather Forecast: Thursday, August 10, 2023
Seasonal temperatures will continue along with mostly sunny skies and some windy conditions across the state on Thursday. Also be a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms in western and northern Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2023
Judge: Former Wyoming Schools Chief Acted In ‘Bad Faith’ With Public Records
A Laramie County judge said he agrees there’s at least some merit to accusations that the Wyoming Department of Education and former Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder purposely withheld public documents.
Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2023
Cody Planners OK Mormon Temple — Minus 77-Foot Steeple
A Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody received most of the approval it needs at a meeting Tuesday, but not for its controversial 77-foot steeple.
Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2023
Wyoming Political Groups With Opposite Views Spar Over Nearly Identical Names
The conservative Wyoming Family Alliance is accusing the Wyoming Family Alliance For Freedom, a less conservative political advocacy group, of choosing a nearly identical name in an effort to confuse people.
Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2023
Dems Celebrate: Committee Kills Part Of Bill That Would Ban Teaching Sex & Gender Identity To Children
Rep. Karlee Provenza, D-Laramie, said the committee’s decision to kill part of a bill that would ban the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity to young children is a win for the people of Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2023
Bo Biteman Brings Back Bill To Ban Sex, Gender Education For Children
After an effort failed this past session to ban teaching sexual orientation and gender identity themes to children, Sen. Bo Biteman says he’s bringing his bill back for another run.
Leo WolfsonAugust 07, 2023
Lummis Declares War On Space Junk
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis believes removing space junk will protect orbiting satellites many Wyomingites depend on, like Elon Musk’s Starlink service.
Leo WolfsonAugust 07, 2023
Wyoming People: There’s A Submarine Expert In Landlocked Wyoming?
Bondurant, Wyoming, resident Bill Winney had a long and distinguished career as a former U.S. Navy submarine officer and commander.
Leo WolfsonAugust 05, 2023
GOP Firebrand Files Complaint Over Dem Transgender Committeewoman
The Wyoming Republican Party will consider a complaint brought by GOP firebrand Joey Correnti over Democrat Artemis Langford, a transgender woman, serving as an Albany County committeewoman.
Leo WolfsonAugust 05, 2023
Cheyenne School District Superintendent Out After Highly Charged Meeting
The Laramie County School District 1 board accepted Dr. Margaret Crespo's resignation as superintendent Friday during an emotionally charged special meeting.
Leo WolfsonAugust 04, 2023
Citing Safety, Transgender Tennis Player Withdraws From Wyoming Governor’s Cup
Transgender athlete Brooklyn Ross has dropped out of this weekend's Governor’s Cup tennis tournament in Cheyenne this weekend out of concern for safety and to prevent "a circus" atmosphere at the event.
Leo WolfsonAugust 04, 2023
State Officials Defend Fund Wyoming Governments Have Pulled Nearly $200 Million From
Wyoming Treasurer's Office officials defended an investment fund to the State Loan and Investment Board on Thursday that local governments have pulled nearly $200 million from in the past fiscal year.
Leo WolfsonAugust 04, 2023
Up 1,100 Jobs Since 2021, Wyoming Third In US For Manufacturing Growth
Wyoming has had the third highest growth rate in the nation since January 2021, but the state still needs to diversify from energy dependence, officials say.
Leo WolfsonAugust 03, 2023
Mormon Church Continues To Fight In Court For Temple In Cody
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has filed a second petition in Park County District Court for a controversial temple it wants to build in Cody.
Leo WolfsonAugust 03, 2023
Cheyenne Tennis President Quits Over Trans Player In Wyoming Governor’s Cup
A 27-year-old Colorado transgender tennis player competing in the women’s division of this weekend’s Wyoming Governor’s Cup has prompted the resignation of the Cheyenne Tennis Association board president.
Leo WolfsonAugust 02, 2023
Wyoming Republicans Outraged Over Trump’s Jan. 6 Indictment
A new federal indictment against former President Donald Trump on Tuesday over his alleged role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot has Wyoming Republicans outraged.
Leo WolfsonAugust 02, 2023
Congress To Consider Naming Shoshoni Post Office For Dessie Bebout
Former Wyoming Senate President Eli Bebout said he’s thrilled that Congress is considering naming the Shoshoni Post Office after his mother, Dessie Bebout.
Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2023
Local Governments Pull Money From State Investment Fund, Which Is Down 55%
A state-run long-term investment pool is down nearly 55% from a year ago as Wyoming counties and towns pull their money out of fear of larger losses.
Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2023
First-Year Owners Of Casper Spuds Baseball Team Take Club To Championship Series
The Casper Spuds baseball team is playing in the Independence League league championship series this week, an impressive debut for first-time owners Paul and Kristi Hack in the team’s inaugural season.
Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2023
Young Fiddlers Close Out Cheyenne Frontier Days With Capitol Rotunda Hoedown
Bob Matthews leads the Cheyenne Fiddle Orchestra, which performed in the Wyoming Capitol Rotunda this past weekend to close out the 127th Cheyenne Frontier Days.
Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2023
World Champs! Laramie’s Weitzels Wings Sells 48,083 Wings In 24 Hours, Shattering 2 World Records
Weitzels Wings of Laramie sold 48,083 buffalo wings in 24 hours from Friday to Saturday, shattering two world records. With “We Are The Champions” by Queen blasting from the speakers, Weitzel hugged his family and staff upon breaking the second record.
Leo WolfsonJuly 29, 2023
Nuclear Defense Bill Maintains F.E. Warren Missiles, Military
Sen. John Barrasso helped push a number of nuclear-friendly provisions into the annual defense policy bill that passed a Democratic-majority Senate on Thursday.
Leo WolfsonJuly 29, 2023
Laramie Wings Food Truck Attempts World Record This Weekend
Laramie’s Weitzels Wings is on a quest to set two world records for selling buffalo wings. It got off to a quick start Friday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonJuly 28, 2023
Steep Food Prices Draw Outrage From Some At Cheyenne Frontier Days
At Cheyenne Frontier Days, the world’s largest outdoor rodeo, the food isn’t cheap. Spending $20 for a turkey leg left some patrons not happy.
Leo WolfsonJuly 28, 2023
Surviving Rawlins EMT Honored As Hero By Cheyenne Frontier Days
Rawlins EMT Tiffany Gruetzmacher, who was nearly killed last winter while responding to a crash on I-80, was honored as a Hometown Hero by Cheyenne Frontier Days, as was her partner Tyeler Harris, who was killed.
Leo WolfsonJuly 28, 2023
It’s Not Enough The Road Signs Were Misprints, Now They’ve Been Stolen
Not enough to give the Wyoming Department of Transportation a hard time about roadsigns with typos, now people are stealing them, creating an expensive pain in the keister for WYDOT.
Leo WolfsonJuly 27, 2023
Hageman Blasts Homeland Security Chief As Liar And ‘Tyrant’ In Committee Hearing
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, accused Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas of lying and being a tyrant during a House Judiciary Committee meeting Wednesday.
Leo WolfsonJuly 27, 2023
Cody Planning Board Deeply Divided, Still Can't Decide Fate Of Mormon Temple
A controversial plan to build a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody failed again to gain approval from the city's Planning and Zoning Board on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonJuly 26, 2023
Newspaper Fight With 2 Wyoming Towns Over Public Notices Could Change Industry
The Casper Star-Tribune is going to court to force the small towns of Mills and Bar Nunn to continue publishing their public notices in the newspaper. The towns argue print is obsolete and they should be allowed to post online.
Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2023
Cheyenne City Council Stops Short Of Full Homeless Ban With Curfew
Cheyenne City Council on Monday passed an amended ordinance setting a curfew for people from gathering in a well-known homeless camp in the Crow Creek area from midnight to 5 a.m.
Leo WolfsonJuly 24, 2023
Oops! Backwards Wyoming Sign To Get Fixed
Although the words were correct in a sign promoting the Beartooth Highway in northwest Wyoming, the placement of the words were a bit jumbled.
Leo WolfsonJuly 24, 2023
Homeless In Cheyenne: The Invisible People Of Wyoming's Capital City
Cheyenne’s homeless population often is beneath notice, living the shadows and background of society. But they each have a story about how they became that way.
Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2023
Trump Leads Wyoming In Campaign Fundraising, DeSantis Close Behind
Through the second quarter of 2023, former President Donald Trump has outraised his leading 2024 challenger Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in Wyoming, but not by a lot.
Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2023
Wyoming Pays 7th Most Taxes Per Capita, Smashing Perceptions It’s A ‘Welfare State’
Contrary to some popular perceptions that Wyoming is a “welfare state,” taking more from the federal government than it gives, a recent analysis finds that Wyoming actually pays the seventh most federal taxes per capita.
Leo WolfsonJuly 22, 2023
After Being Suspended, Cody VFW Is Suing To Find Out Who Blew The Whistle
After a suspension of more than a month for allegations of misusing money for veterans’ funerals, Cody VFW Post 2673 wants to know who blew the whistle on it and plans to sue the VFW Department of Wyoming to find out.
Leo WolfsonJuly 21, 2023
Casper Abortion Clinic Arsonist Pleads Guilty, Taken Straight To Jail
A Casper woman who has admitted using gasoline to set fire to an abortion and gender services clinic last year pleaded guilty to arson in federal court Thursday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonJuly 20, 2023
Mormon Church Sues Cody Over Planning And Zoning Board’s Denial Of Temple Plan
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is asking for a judicial review of the city of Cody Planning and Zoning Board’s dismissal of part of its plan to build a 101-foot-tall temple and steeple.
Leo WolfsonJuly 20, 2023
Two More Horses Die At Wyoming Downs In Evanston
After three horses went down on the same day in June at Wyoming Downs horse racing track in Evanston two more have died in the weeks since, all after being injured while running the track.
Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2023
Arrest Made In Rash Of Bomb Threats To Casper Government Agencies, No Explosives Found
Multiple bomb threats in Casper on Wednesday morning interrupted a Gaming Commission meeting and forced hundreds of state employees to evacuate the Thyra Thomson building. Within two hours, an arrest was made.
Leo Wolfson & Clair McFarlandJuly 19, 2023
Bomb Threat Prompts Evacuation Of Wyoming State Government Building In Casper
A special meeting of the Wyoming Gaming Commission was abruptly interrupted Wednesday morning when a bomb threat prompted an evacuation of the Thyra Thomson State Office Building in Casper.
Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2023
Hageman Calls Bill To Strike ‘Husband’ And ‘Wife’ From Federal Law ‘Woke Messaging’
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says new legislation proposed by California Democrat to remove “husband” and “wife” from federal law is nothing more than “woke messaging.”
Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2023
Vandalized Yard Signs Mock Those Opposed To Controversial Cody Mormon Temple
Yard signs opposing a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody, Wyoming, have been vandalized to instead mock those who don’t want the 101-foot temple in their community.
Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2023
Two Fatalities, Missing Man Makes Busy Weekend For Park County Search & Rescue
Emergency crews in Park County responded to a pair of unrelated fatal incidents Friday, then began an exhaustive search for a missing Montana man Saturday.
Leo WolfsonJuly 18, 2023
State Sen. Criticizes Gordon For Partnership With Colorado Dem Governor
State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz said she received a text from Gov Gordon comparing her criticism of his partnership with Colorado Gov Polis to a “noise from a screeching animal.”
Leo WolfsonJuly 18, 2023
Rawlins Bounces Back From Last Year's Water Catastrophe To Actually Open Splash Pad
Although the city of Rawlins had to observe severe watering restrictions last summer, a substantial winter snowpack has drastically improved the city’s water situation, allowing staff to be OK with opening a long-planned splash pad.
Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2023
Former Wyoming State Senator Crushed by 4,000-Pound Trailer
Former State Sen. Tom James was trying to disconnect a trailer from his truck Sunday when the footing broke and it rolled over onto him. A good Samaritan spotted the accident and James was life-flighted to a Loveland, Colorado, hospital.
Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2023
Shoshoni, Wyoming Going Through Big Changes; Fast Lane Expansion Leading The Way
It's been a challenging time for Shoshoni, a town of 471 which sits at one of the busiest crossroads in the state. But there's a lot change happening and the significant expansion and renovation of the Fast Lane gas station is leading the way.
Leo WolfsonJuly 16, 2023
In Battle With Monster 5-Pound Burrito, Scorecard Reads Burrito 1, Wyoming Man 0
With a free meal and bragging rights on the line, Cody, Wyoming, resident Cordell Betters battled the Michael’s Tacos challenge — eat a monster 5-pound burrito in 15 minutes. The burrito won.
Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2023
Cody Mormon Temple Hasn’t Been Approved, So What's In Those Gigantic Storage Containers?
Although the highly controversial 77-foot steeple for a church in Cody hasn’t been approved, there are more than a dozen gigantic storage pods which a business owner confirmed are related to the construction project.
Leo WolfsonJuly 12, 2023
Gillette Venue May Be Stuck With $340,000 Bill For Port-A-Potties For Huge 2024 Convention
Gillette’s Cam-plex may have to pony up $340,000 it was contractually obligated to reserve to buy hundreds of port-a-potties to accommodate 50,000 International Pathfinder Camporee visitors next summer.
Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2023
Now Other People Are “Pissed” At The “We The People Are Pissed” Billboard On I-80 in Wyoming
A Cowboy State Daily story on why a Laramie County couple erected a 20-foot sign stating they were angry has angered other people. They say the billboard does not reflect how they feel and are angry about it.
Leo WolfsonJuly 10, 2023
Barrasso Blasts Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen For ‘Bowing Down’ To China
In an interview on Fox News on Sunday, Wyoming U.S. Sen. John Barrasso accuses Secretary of Treasury Janet Yellen of “bowing down repeatedly” to China during a recent visit to the country.
Leo WolfsonJuly 10, 2023
‘It’s a Damn Mess’: Lack Of Trust Between Laramie Airport And Private Pilots Grows
Infighting between management and private aviators who use Laramie Regional Airport may never have been worse than it is today as pilots claim retaliation for questioning new rules.
Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2023
Joey Correnti Files Election Complaint Against Dems, Says They Aren't Following The Law
Well-known Carbon County politico Joey Correnti has filed an official elections complaint against the Wyoming Democratic Party. He says they aren't following the law which requires elections every two years.
Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2023
'We The People Are Pissed' – I-80 Sign Owners Explain Just What They’re So Mad About
Laramie County residents Jeanette and Andrew Kahler say they don’t have enough sign space to list all the issues they’re mad at. But they all have one thing in common: the government.
Leo WolfsonJuly 07, 2023
Everyone's Mad At Everyone Else Following Legislative Meeting With Public Over Property Taxes
Residents were upset at rising property taxes, legislators were mad at other legislators over how they treated attendees of the meeting, and legislative leadership was upset with legislators who set-up the meeting.
Leo WolfsonJuly 07, 2023
Five Years After Officer-Involved Shooting, Laramie Creates Police Advisory Board
After years of requests, deliberations and public debate since Robbie Ramirez, 39, was shot and killed by an Albany County Sheriff’s deputy, Laramie City Council on Wednesday approved creating an advisory board for city police.
Leo WolfsonJuly 07, 2023
University Of Wyoming Gets Its First Exclusive NIL Group To Pay Student-Athletes
The first name, image and likeness (NIL) collective to legally pay student-athletes at the University of Wyoming launched Thursday.
Leo WolfsonJuly 06, 2023
Wyoming Republicans Pony Up $500,000 For Trump’s 2024 Campaign
Some Wyoming residents and officials are already getting out their checkbooks donating nearly $500,000 to former President Donald Trump, along with supporting other Republicans who’ve announced for the party’s 2024 presidential nomination.
Leo WolfsonJuly 06, 2023
Wyoming Republican Groups Already Taking Campaign Donations For ’24 Elections
Groups working on behalf of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus and Wyoming Caucus have rolled out some of the first Republican marketing efforts of the 2024 election season in the Cowboy State.
Leo WolfsonJuly 05, 2023
Big Horn County Family Receives Surprise $742,000 Wyoming Unclaimed Property Payout
A family in Big Horn County had no idea it was owed more than $742,000 from Wyoming’s Unclaimed Property Division, which paid out a record $10.6 million this past fiscal year.
Leo WolfsonJuly 05, 2023
Don Day Wyoming Weather Forecast: Monday, July 3, 2023
Dry weather for most of the state with some wind and a chance of showers and thunderstorms. Slight chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms in the late afternoon and evening on the 4th. Also a chance of heavy rainfall, hail and a few tornadoes in northeast Wyoming throughout the week.
Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2023
Gun Rights For Felons, 125 Other New Wyoming Laws Go Live Saturday
A new law restoring gun rights to felons is one of 126 new laws that go into effect Saturday. Also live will be a ban on transgender girls in girls’ sports.
Leo WolfsonJune 30, 2023
‘God Will Never Forgive You’: Man Who Gunned Down 2 On Wyoming Highway Gets Life In Prison
Luke Thomas Young said if he could, he would take back what happened the night he shot and killed two people on the side of a Wyoming highway. Mom of victim tells him, “God will never forgive you, nor will I.”
Leo WolfsonJune 30, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Applaud Supreme Court Killing Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan
Even a Wyoming lawmaker who has had his student loans deferred says the U.S. Supreme Court got it right Friday when it squashed President Biden’s student loan forgiveness program.
Leo WolfsonJune 30, 2023
Crumbling Cheyenne Elementary School Will Have To Wait Longer To Be Replaced
A dilapidated elementary school in a low-income Cheyenne neighborhood deemed too unsafe to use anymore will have to wait longer to be replaced.
Leo WolfsonJune 30, 2023
Hageman Says Conservatives Should Expect Battle On Capitol Hill To Get Worse Before It Gets Better
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman said during a town hall in Saratoga, Wyoming, on Wednesday that it's tough for Republicans to get legislation passed on Capitol Hill and that conservatives should expect that to get worse before it gets better.
Leo WolfsonJune 29, 2023
Supreme Court’s Affirmative Action Ruling Won’t Change Much At University of Wyoming
Thursday's U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down affirmative action in higher education won't affect the University of Wyoming much because it already doesn't consider race in its admission practices, a UW spokesperson said.
Leo WolfsonJune 29, 2023
Wyoming Native And State's Former Top Educator, Jillian Balow Glad To Be Out Of Politics
Former Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow said she’s happy to be working in the private sector and out of politics after resigning from the same role with the state of Virginia in March.
Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2023
Teton Village Will Use $1 Million Biden Grant To Replace Its Diesel Buses With Electric Ones
The Teton Village Association is planning to uses nearly $1 million from the Biden administration to replace its diesel transit buses in return for a fresh fleet of electric buses in 2024.
Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2023
‘We’re Electing Idiots’: Liz Cheney Says GOP Will Splinter If Trump Nominated
Former congresswoman Liz Cheney on Tuesday said nominating former President Trump in 2024 will divide the GOP and that stopping his reelection is more important than who wins the White House.
Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2023
Sheridan Residents Blast Wyoming Legislators Over Sky High Property Tax Increases
Monday's meeting of the Wyoming Legislature's Joint Revenue Committee in Sheridan was overflowing with people who were furious over property taxes that continue to increase year after year.
Leo WolfsonJune 27, 2023
Former Wyoming Education Chief Jillian Balow Has New Job, Still Being Paid $300,000 By Virginia
Three months removed from her resignation as Virginia superintendent of public instruction, Jillian Balow has taken a corporate education job. Virginia also is still paying her nearly $300,000 in salary and benefits over the next year.
Leo WolfsonJune 27, 2023
Proposal Would Tighten Wyoming Laws On Organ Donor Discrimination By Insurance Companies
Building off legislation that will go into law Saturday, the Wyoming lawmakers are now trying to protect people who receive organ transplants from being discriminated against for insurance coverage.
Leo WolfsonJune 26, 2023
A Year After Roe Overturned, Wyoming Pro-Life Supporters Celebrate Anniversary
In one of the reddest states in the nation, abortion is still fully legal in Wyoming a full year after the overturn of Roe v. Wade. As pro-life supporters rally to mark the anniversary, pro-choice advocates vow the fight far from over.
Leo WolfsonJune 26, 2023
Wyoming Republicans Part Of National Shift To Work Within ‘Rigged’ Election Systems
Some Republicans in Wyoming, similar to what's happening on the national stage, are shifting their approach to election practices. Although they may not prefer mail-in ballots and early voting, they concede they may have to work within these parameters.
Leo WolfsonJune 25, 2023
Wyoming People: Vietnam Vet From Douglas Checks Off Bucket-List Item With First Skydiving Jump
After a life of serving his country, community service and coping with PTSD, Wyoming Navy veteran Ernie Herrera, 75, finally realized a lifelong dream by making his first skydiving jump.
Leo WolfsonJune 24, 2023
Races Still On At Wyoming Downs Despite Calls To Cancel After Three Horses Died
Horse racing is still on at Wyoming Downs in Evanston amid pressure for the racetrack to shut down until an investigation is completed into the deaths of three horses that fell on the track last weekend.
Leo WolfsonJune 23, 2023
Laramie Regional Airport Digs Out From ‘Unbelievable’ 45 FAA Violations
Although Laramie Regional Airport Director Amy Terrell painted a rosy picture of the state of her airport to Albany County commissioners, some local pilots say there are still serious problems.
Leo WolfsonJune 23, 2023
Hageman Says She Would Vote To Impeach Biden
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, told Cowboy State Daily that she supports Colorado congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s latest effort to impeach President Joe Biden.
Leo WolfsonJune 22, 2023
Woman Who Stole $250,000 From Cheyenne Little Theatre 'Extremely Sorry,' Gets 21 Months
Carrisa Dunn-Pollard was sentenced to 21 months in prison and ordered to pay back nearly $334,000 to the Cheyenne Little Theatre Players and IRS on Wednesday in federal court.
Leo WolfsonJune 22, 2023
Albany County Commissioners Vote 2-1 In Favor Of Changing Name Of Swastika Lake
By a 2-1 vote Tuesday, Albany County commissioners are officially recommending Swastika Lake in southern Wyoming be renamed Knight Lake in honor of a local geologist and paleontologist.
Leo WolfsonJune 21, 2023
Three Horses Euthanized At Evanston Wyoming Downs Track After Falling In Races
Three racehorses had to be put down at the Wyoming Downs racetrack in Evanston on Saturday afternoon after falling during separate races.
Leo WolfsonJune 21, 2023
Harvard Researcher Says Deregulating Wyoming Could Solve State’s Housing Crisis
A researcher with the Harvard Growth Lab told a state legislative task force Monday that to solve its housing crisis, Wyoming needs to deregulate, urbanize and grow cities like Casper and Cheyenne to more than 100,000 people.
Leo WolfsonJune 20, 2023
University Of Wyoming Free Speech Task Force Doesn’t Consider Church Elder’s Ban From Campus
A University of Wyoming free speech task force didn’t consider the case of a Laramie church elder who was publicly banned from the student union in making recommendations on how to improve free speech at UW.
Leo WolfsonJune 20, 2023
Patriots’ Owner Robert Kraft Wants The Name Of Wyoming’s Swastika Lake Changed
New England Patriots Owner Robert Kraft is pushing to have the name changed of Wyoming's Swastika Lake in Medicine Bow National Forest.
Leo WolfsonJune 19, 2023
University Of Wyoming Hall Of Fame Basketball Coach Jim Brandenburg Dies At 87
Those who met former UW men's basketball head coach Jim Brandenburg remember him as a tough coach who expected a lot out of his teams and got results. He died Sunday at age 87.
Leo WolfsonJune 19, 2023
Cheyenne Getting Overrun By Squirrels: 'It’s Like The Serengeti Out There'
Cheyenne Forester Molly O’Brien on Friday said the squirrel population has exploded because they’ve become domesticated. In fact, one squirrel was so friendly he jumped into a baby carriage last week at Lion’s Park.
Leo WolfsonJune 17, 2023
Cody Mormon Temple Gets OK, But Not The Enormous 77-Foot Steeple
Although the town of Cody approved a new Latter-day Saints temple Thursday, it tabled the decision on whether to allow a towering 77-foot steeple to go with it. The city planner argued it wouldn't violate the town's 30-foot height limit because the 8-story steeple shouldn't count.
Leo WolfsonJune 17, 2023
Coal, Oil And Gas Rebound Push Campbell County Assessed Valuation To $5.7 Billion
Strong performances in Campbell County’s mineral extraction industries increased the county’s assessed valuation to $5.7 billion, the highest since it posted a record $6.2 billion valuation in 2015.
Leo WolfsonJune 16, 2023
Wyoming Lawmaker Calls For Boycott Of Businesses That Sponsored Casper Pride Fest
Wyoming Republican state Rep. Jeanette Ward is vowing not to support businesses that sponsored Casper’s Pride Fest celebration last weekend.
Leo WolfsonJune 15, 2023
Huge 9,000-Pill Cheyenne Fentanyl Bust Highlights Wyoming’s Growing Opioid Epidemic
Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak on Thursday said fentanyl is the number one issue facing law enforcement in Laramie County. "It is the cause of all the crime that we’re seeing," Kozak said.
Leo WolfsonJune 15, 2023
Here's Which Elected Officials In Wyoming Spoke Out On Trump Indictment
While Wyoming’s congressional delegation all spoke out about the indictment of former President Trump, only one statewide official said anything about it.
Leo WolfsonJune 15, 2023
After 60 Years, Priests Who Hold Services In Yellowstone Told Their RV Can’t Stay Overnight In Park
Yellowstone National Park has told St. Anthony Catholic Church in Cody, Wyoming, that while they can still hold weekend services for visitors, for the first time in 60 years priests can’t stay overnight.
Leo WolfsonJune 14, 2023
DOJ Investigation Of Susan Gore: Politically Motivated Attack Or Legit Case?
State Sen. Anthony Bouchard believes the Department of Justice’s investigation of Wyoming’s Susan Gore is politically motivated, while Rep. Karlee Provenza said its investigation into spying and campaign donations is justified.
Leo WolfsonJune 14, 2023
77-Foot Steeple For Mormon Temple In Cody Not Part Of Roof, Doesn’t Violate 30-Foot Limit, City Planner Says
Cody City Planner Todd Stowell says a proposed Mormon temple wouldn't violate the town's 30-foot height limit because the 77-foot steeple doesn't count.
Leo WolfsonJune 13, 2023
Water Main Bursts in Rawlins But No Water Restrictions Issued Because Of Huge Snowpack
Even though a water main burst in Rawlins over the weekend, water restrictions have been eased in the town because of a historic winter snowfall which left a huge snowpack in Wyoming’s Snowy Range.
Leo WolfsonJune 12, 2023
Degenfelder Vows To Continue Fight Against ‘Educational Establishment’ At Conservative Summit
Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder told a crowd at Saturday’s Western Conservative Summit in Denver that she’ll continue to fight “the left” and its push of a woke “educational establishment.”
Leo WolfsonJune 12, 2023
The Mighty Jackalope: Wyoming's Version Of Bigfoot Or The Loch Ness Monster
Jackalopes, Wyoming’s mythical antler-rabbits, are everywhere you look around downtown Douglas. The famous critter has become part of the town’s identity and its push to market itself.
Leo WolfsonJune 11, 2023
Wyoming Bikers Practice ‘Two-Wheel Therapy’ In Riding For Suicide Awareness
More than 100 motorcycle riders gathered in Sublette County on Saturday and took their message of suicide awareness and prevention to Wyoming highways Saturday for the Boulder Poker Run.
Leo WolfsonJune 11, 2023
Western Conservatives Say New Trump Charges Are Politically Motivated
Although attendees of Friday’s Western Conservative Summit in Denver say new indictments against former President Donald Trump are politically motivated, many said they still aren’t sure which Republican they will back for president in 2024.
Leo WolfsonJune 09, 2023
Hageman Mocks ‘Yellowstone’ Actor Kevin Costner: He Backed The 'Wrong Horse' In Cheney
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman headlined Friday’s Western Conservative Summit in Denver, saying Hollywood should stay out of politics and Kevin Costner backed the 'wrong horse' when he endorsed Liz Cheney.
Leo WolfsonJune 09, 2023
Grand Teton Officials Search For Visitors Who Harassed Baby Bison
Authorities in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park announced Thursday they're looking for two men who illegally approached and harassed a bison calf on Sunday.
Leo WolfsonJune 08, 2023
Wyoming Dems Blast Degenfelder For Association With Moms For Liberty
Wyoming Democrats are upset Megan Degenfelder, the state’s top education official, is taking stage with an activist who has supported getting rid of certain books in school libraries and other conservative educational causes.
Leo WolfsonJune 08, 2023
It's Been 'Very Trying' For Douglas, Wyoming, After Mayor's Unexpected Death
Longtime Douglas city councilwoman Kim Pexton had known and served with Mayor René Kemper for years. But taking over as mayor after Kemper's unexpected death in March has been "very trying for everybody," Pexton said.
Leo WolfsonJune 08, 2023
Emotions Run Hot As Gillette City Council Bombarded Ahead Of Passing Anti-Hate Crime Law
Gillette City Council passed a controversial anti-hate crime ordinance Tuesday on a close 4-3 vote, but not before nearly two dozen people made impassioned pleas against it.
Leo WolfsonJune 07, 2023
Hageman Champions Bill That Would Limit Presidents Making Major Policy Rules
Wyoming Republican U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman is a vocal supporter of a bill that would limit presidents and federal agencies to direct major policy and rule-making without congressional approval.
Leo WolfsonJune 06, 2023
Wyoming County Clerks Want To Tighten Voter Residency Laws, Not Sure How To Do It
Wyoming’s county clerks say the state’s residency laws for voting need cleaning and tightening up, but they aren’t sure how to do it.
Leo WolfsonJune 06, 2023
18 Wyoming Legislators Upset Transgender Surgeries Included Under Medicaid, But They Aren't
A group of Wyoming legislators wanted to know why transgender surgeries are no longer on the Medicaid-excluded list, but the Wyoming Department of Health says they have never been covered.
Leo WolfsonJune 06, 2023
Labeling Republicans, Christian Conservative Groups As Terrorists Is ‘Appalling,’ Hageman says
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman blasts the Biden administration and Department of Homeland Security for giving money to a program that lumps the Republican Party and Christian conservative groups in with others considered terrorists.
Leo WolfsonJune 05, 2023
Wyoming Truckers Say Over-Regulation, Declining Standards Have Destroyed Trucking Industry
Wyoming truckers tell Cowboy State Daily that federal regulations and declining standards allowed because of a critical shortage of drivers have “just destroyed” their industry.
Leo WolfsonJune 03, 2023
Chuck Gray Wants Wyoming To Stop Doing Business With China
Saying he's concerned about the uncertain geopolitical and economic future of China, Secretary of State Chuck Gray wants Wyoming to remove itself from all investing in the Communist nation.
Leo WolfsonJune 02, 2023
Gillette Hate-Crime Ordinance Reaching Boiling Point Ahead Of Tuesday Vote
Gillette City Council and community split over proposed hate-crime ordinance as the council is set for a final vote Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonJune 02, 2023
Debt Ceiling Deal Allows Biden To Pass The Buck Beyond 2024 Election, Hageman Says
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says she was one of the 117 votes against the debt ceiling legislation that passed the U.S. House on Wednesday because it doesn’t go far enough to rein in spending while allowing the Biden administration to postpone impacts beyond the 2024 election.
Leo WolfsonJune 01, 2023
Chuck Gray Targets Voting Residency To Make Sure Wyoming Elections Are Only For Wyoming Residents
Secretary of State Chuck Gray unveiled his proposal for tightening election residency requirements Tuesday, urging state lawmakers to adopt a max-allowed residency of 30 days to vote in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonJune 01, 2023
Trash Bins At Wyoming I-80 Rest Stops Lead To More Littering, Not Less, WYDOT Director Says
More litter piles up at Wyoming rest stops with trash bins than without, says Wyoming Department of Transportation director.
Leo WolfsonMay 31, 2023
Interstate 80 Through Wyoming A Huge Nightmare But No One Knows How To Fix It
While most Wyoming officials agree it was a particularly rough winter along Interstate 80, there are few solid answers about what can be done to make one of the most dangerous highways in the U.S. safer.
Leo WolfsonMay 31, 2023
Harriet Hageman Defies US House Speaker McCarthy In Opposition Of Debt Ceiling Deal
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman told Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday she won’t support what some Republicans call a “turd sandwich” of a debt ceiling deal with President Joe Biden, in direct defiance of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Leo WolfsonMay 30, 2023
Colorado College Grads Turn Backs To Alumnus Liz Cheney During Commencement Address
About half of Colorado College’s graduating class turned their chairs away from former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney, a 1988 graduate of CC, during her commencement speech to the Class of 2023 on Sunday.
Leo WolfsonMay 30, 2023
What Does It Mean To Be 'Woke' In Wyoming? Depends On Who You Ask
Wyoming, and America, is waking up to “woke,” a powder-keg buzzword that’s become a fuse to provoke those who lean politically blue. Some use the word as a weapon while others embrace it as a rallying cry.
Leo WolfsonMay 29, 2023
Postal Service Snoops Through People’s Mail In Blatant Trampling Of Privacy, Sen. Cynthia Lummis Fears
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis wants to know how much tracking the federal government has been doing of Wyoming residents’ mail in blatant violation of the rights of Wyoming residents.
Leo WolfsonMay 27, 2023
Wyoming Republican Wants To Allow In-State College Tuition For Illegal Aliens
State Rep. Ryan Berger, R-Evanston, wants to explore the idea of letting undocumented immigrants receive in-state tuition at Wyoming’s higher education institutions.
Leo WolfsonMay 27, 2023
Sen. Bo Biteman Wants To Revive Failed Effort To Ban Sex And Gender Education In Wyoming Schools
Emotions ran hot during a Wyoming Legislature Joint Education Committee meeting Wednesday about parental control and teaching sex and gender issues to kids ages kindergarten through third grade.
Leo WolfsonMay 25, 2023
Supreme Court Ruling For Western Ranchers Over EPA Is A Win For Private Property Rights
Wyomingites are celebrating a Thursday Supreme Court decision that the Environmental Protection Agency overstepped its authority to regulate private property wetlands. Former BLM Director William Pendley calls the ruling a “huge victory for landowners.”
Leo WolfsonMay 25, 2023
Cheyenne Group To Fight Against Banning Controversial Books From School Libraries
Wyoming Families For Freedom wants to block a raft of policy changes the Laramie County School District 1 is considering to restrict access to certain books in its library system.
Leo WolfsonMay 25, 2023
Plans For 101-Foot Mormon Temple In Cody Spark Opposition, Petition Drive
A proposed Mormon temple in Cody has drawn backlash from some locals who say it will blight their views, violate zoning rules and cause other issues in the residential neighborhood it’s planned for.
Leo WolfsonMay 25, 2023
Weston County Agrees That Secret Ballots, Hidden Communications Illegal In Lawsuit Settlement
Weston County commissioners on Tuesday settled a lawsuit that sets a legal precedent clarifying that voting by secret ballot and conducting electronic communications to engage in public business in Wyoming is illegal, media attorney says.
Leo WolfsonMay 24, 2023
Hageman Says Republicans Can’t Seem “To Wake Up Joe Biden” To Face Debt Ceiling Crisis
U.S. Harriet Hageman said Republicans are effectively holding court when it comes to debt ceiling negotiations, and they won’t accept any proposal that doesn’t cut spending.
Leo WolfsonMay 24, 2023
WEA Lawsuit Over School Funding Latest In 50-Year Fight To Define Wyoming’s Charge For ‘Adequate' And 'Equitable' Funding
Just how much money is required for “adequate” and "equitable" public school funding is a legal question that’s been litigated in Wyoming for more than 50 years, including an ongoing WEA lawsuit.
Leo WolfsonMay 23, 2023
Wyoming Attorney Says ‘Christian Nationalism’ Has ‘Highjacked’ Republican Party
Casper Attorney Susan Stubson is getting pushback after saying Wyoming is being “hijacked” by “Christian nationalism” and far-right Republicans in a New York Times op-ed.
Leo WolfsonMay 23, 2023
Wyoming GOP Unhappy With Supreme Court Decision It Can’t Make Its Own Election Rules
A recent Wyoming Supreme Court decision that political parties can’t make rules contrary to state law is a frustrating legal pill to swallow, say some state party officials.
Leo WolfsonMay 22, 2023
Cowboy State People: Cheryl Burke Sells Bonsai Trees & Honey Along Highway Through Tiny Eden, Wyoming
Cheryl Burke grows, trims and sells her bonsai trees from a roadside stand along Highway 191 as it runs through the tiny town of Eden in southwestern Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMay 21, 2023
House Speaker Sommers Says Freedom Caucus Is Dividing Republicans In It’s ‘Thirst For Power’
House Speaker Rep. Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale, slammed Wyoming Freedom Caucus members, accusing the group of having a “thirst for power” in pushing a far-right or nothing agenda on state Republicans.
Leo WolfsonMay 20, 2023
Rodents, Sewage, Crumbling Walls: Cheyenne’s Arp Elementary Forced Into Makeshift Building Next Fall
Arp Elementary School has rodents, sewage problems and crumbling walls. It will move into an abandoned school building in Cheyenne in the fall, but whether the state will OK money to replace or upgrade the school is far from certain.
Leo WolfsonMay 19, 2023
Hageman Says Feds Turn ‘Blind Eye’ To Violence Against Pro-Life Groups
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says the federal government is hypocritical in protecting people who are victims of hate crimes, turning a “blind eye” when pro-life groups are attacked.
Leo WolfsonMay 18, 2023
Uinta County Republicans Can’t Make Their Own Rules To Override State Law, Wyoming Supreme Court Says
The Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Thursday morning that former Uinta County Republican Party leaders improperly changed its 2021 party election rules in a way that contradicts state law.
Leo WolfsonMay 18, 2023
Reckless Hunting Allegation A Political ‘Hit Job,’ Says GOP National Committeewoman Nina Webber As Charges Dropped
An allegation that Wyoming Republican Party National Committeewoman Nina Webber sprayed bullets near a home last fall while hunting have been dropped with prejudice. She called the charge a political “hit job” and said that “the truth has finally come out.”
Leo WolfsonMay 18, 2023
Wyoming Freedom Caucus Says Lawmakers Who Voted Down Property Tax Bills Are ‘Unethical’
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is pointing fingers over the mass failure of most of the 21 property tax bills proposed during this year’s legislative session.
Leo WolfsonMay 18, 2023
Hageman Says Durham Report Is Proof Federal Government Was Weaponized To Block Trump Reelection
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman on Wednesday said, "The lack of probable cause, accuracy of examining information and objectivity by the FBI is criminal, and those who willfully advanced the lies exposed by the Durham report should face criminal prosecution.”
Leo WolfsonMay 17, 2023
Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Challenging Chuck Gray’s Voter ID Law
Secretary of State Chuck Gray said Tuesday that he’s “extremely pleased” with the dismissal of a lawsuit challenging what he calls “Wyoming’s landmark voter ID law.”
Leo WolfsonMay 16, 2023
Gordon, Degenfelder Slam Biden’s Proposed Transgender Athletes Rule, Which Would Override Wyoming’s New Law
Gov. Mark Gordon and Wyoming’s top education official Megan Degenfelder have signed letters opposing a Title IX rule proposal from President Joe Biden’s administration that would likely nullify a transgender sports law passed in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMay 16, 2023
Biden Nominates Rock Springs Native, Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, To Lead National Institutes of Health
Dr. Monica Bertagnolli, a cancer surgeon who grew up in Rock Springs, has been nominated by President Biden to lead the National Institutes Of Health.
Leo WolfsonMay 16, 2023
Barrasso, Lummis And Hageman Rip Biden For Calling White Supremacy Greatest Threat In U.S.
Sen. Barrasso and Rep. Hageman said President Biden was trying to deflect attention from other issues on Saturday when he called white supremacy the most dangerous terrorist threat to America.
Leo WolfsonMay 15, 2023
University of Wyoming Out-Of-State Tuition Cheaper For Some Colorado Students Than To Stay Home
It’s makes sense that Colorado students make up a significant percentage of the University of Wyoming student body considering it costs less for some than in-state tuition at CSU or CU-Boulder.
Leo WolfsonMay 15, 2023
From Homelessness To Wyoming Legislature, Clark Stith Helped Spark Sweetwater County’s Republican Rise
One night when Stith was 25 years old, he found himself homeless. "I woke up outside under a bridge and saw a rat crawling in front of me and thought, ‘Law school couldn't be much worse than this,’" Stith remembered. "So, I applied to law school."
Leo WolfsonMay 13, 2023
Wyoming’s Silent Sufferers: Task Force Wants To Catch Vulnerable Adults Before They Slip Through Cracks
Identifying vulnerable adults in Wyoming is a complicated hurdle the state’s new Mental Health and Vulnerable Adults Task Force is trying to address.
Leo WolfsonMay 12, 2023
Some Lawmakers Say Ogden Driskill Acting Like He’s King Of The Legislature, Others Defend Him
Senate President Ogden Driskill stripping Sen. Dave Kinskey of a committee chairmanship has divided the Legislature. Some defend his decision, while others say he’s trying to “build his own kingdom.”
Leo WolfsonMay 12, 2023
End Of Trump-Era Border Rules An Immigration Nightmare, Say Lummis, Barrasso and Hageman
An influx of migrants is expected at the U.S. southern border with Mexico as President Joe Biden is lifting a Trump-era restriction on immigration. Wyoming's delegation predicts lifting the rules will create an immigration nightmare for Wyoming and the U.S.
Leo WolfsonMay 11, 2023
Gillette Divided As City Considers Discrimination Ordinance
A proposed ordinance targeting discrimination in Gillette has divided the northeast Wyoming community, as well as its City Council, which narrowly passed its first reading 4-3.
Leo WolfsonMay 11, 2023
Wyoming GOP Targets Democrat State Rep. Karlee Provenza In 2024; She Says Bring It On
State Rep. Karlee Provenza, D-Laramie, is using a Wyoming Republican Party resolution seeking to remove her from office to springboard her 2024 reelection campaign, saying the GOP pushback is “all fine with me.”
Leo WolfsonMay 10, 2023
Jackson Democrat Mike Yin Was A Blue Dot In a Sea Of Red At State GOP Meeting
If there was one person at the Wyoming Republican Party’s quarterly Central Committee meeting Saturday who may have seemed out of place, it was Jackson Democrat state Rep. Mike Yin.
Leo WolfsonMay 10, 2023
Wyoming Republicans Look to Get Younger As State GOP Becoming ‘An Aging, White Party’
Many Wyoming Republican Party members agree the party needs younger members, although some say it’s not a problem as young conservatives are simply involved in other causes.
Leo WolfsonMay 09, 2023
Cheney Continues Crusade Against Trump In New Political Ad Released Tuesday
Former congresswoman Liz Cheney has launched a new blitz against former President Donald Trump in a political ad denouncing him as “unfit for office.” U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says the ad is an “ineffective” attempt “to settle a personal score.”
Leo WolfsonMay 09, 2023
Gordon Snubs State GOP Elections, All Other Top State Elected Officials Attend
Gov. Mark Gordon was a no-show at last weekend’s Republican Party elections in Jackson. Many of his supporters and critics didn’t seem to notice or care.
Leo WolfsonMay 09, 2023
Laramie County Republicans To Pay Back Dues, End Financial Feud With State Party
Some county GOP groups not paying state dues has been a hot issue for the state party, but Laramie County's announcement on Saturday that it will settle up on $12,000 owed may go a long way to cooling those flames.
Leo WolfsonMay 08, 2023
Medicinal Ink: Project Semicolon Taps Into Tattoos As Emotional Reminders Of Suicide
The Simonson family of Gillette will mourn the eighth anniversary of Kaden Simonson’s death Monday, who in 2015 took his own life at the age of 15. The remember him every day with their semicolon tattoos, a growing suicide awareness movement.
Leo WolfsonMay 07, 2023
Wyoming GOP Targets Rep. Karlee Provenza For Antifa Post
The Wyoming Republican Party passed a resolution Saturday to find an Albany County candidate in 2024 to unseat Laramie Democrat Rep. Karlee Provenza, who made national headlines for sharing an Antifa post shortly after a mass shooting. Provenza later apologized for the post.
Leo WolfsonMay 07, 2023
Frank Eathorne Wins Third Term As Wyoming Republican Party Chairman In Landslide
Two-time Wyoming Republican Chairman Frank Eathorne beat former state legislator Frank Moore by a hefty margin at the party’s elections Saturday in Jackson.
Leo WolfsonMay 06, 2023
Rob Wallace, Highest Ranking Official In Trump Administration From Wyoming, Kicks Off State GOP Meeting
As a the senior-most official in the Trump administration from Wyoming, Rob Wallace said his experience running America's national parks and the role conservatives have had in managing the nation's natural resources contradicts the far left narrative that Republicans don't care about the environment.
Leo WolfsonMay 06, 2023
Chuck Gray Says Clearing Him Of Campaign Finance Complaint ‘A Complete And Total Victory For Truth’
Secretary of State Chuck Gray has been cleared by the Federal Election Commission on a campaign finance complaint filed against him in 2022 by former Secretary of State Max Maxfield.
Leo WolfsonMay 05, 2023
Jackson’s Dr. Giovannina Anthony Didn’t Set Out To Be Wyoming’s Pro-Choice Abortion Catalyst, But She Embraces The Role
Dr. Giovannina Anthony, an OB-GYN at a women’s clinic in Jackson, is one of the few abortion providers in a state that is politically staunchly pro-life. She embraces her role as the face of Wyoming’s pro-choice movement.
Leo WolfsonMay 05, 2023
Lummis Still Says Ron DeSantis Is Future Of The Republican Party
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis said she still finds Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to be the lead mover and shaker of the Republican Party, but that former President Donald Trump remains the frontrunner for the party's presidential nomination.
Leo WolfsonMay 04, 2023
Statues Of Esther Hobart Morris And Chief Washakie Will Stay In Basement Of Capitol
Despite passionate pleas from Wyoming residents to return statues of Esther Hobart Morris and Chief Washakie to the front of Wyoming's State Capitol, a government subcommittee ruled on Thursday to keep them in the basement of the building.
Leo WolfsonMay 04, 2023
Conservative Firebrand Charlie Kirk Endorses Frank Eathorne For State GOP Chair, Still No Trump Nod
Although Wyoming Republican Party Chairman Frank Eathorne has received an endorsement from a prominent conservative voice, the endorsement of former President Donald Trump still eludes him.
Leo WolfsonMay 03, 2023
As Scrutiny Grows, UW President Seidel Defends School’s Gender Studies Program
University of Wyoming President Ed Seidel defends UW as it’s become a target for many conservatives in Wyoming with claims it embraces and promotes “woke” culture and curricula, as well as LGBTQ-friendly policies.
Leo WolfsonMay 03, 2023
Trial Could Decide Wyoming Education Association’s Claims That Wyoming Needs To Spend More Money On Schools
A Wyoming Education Association lawsuit claiming the state is violating its own constitution by not adequately funding public education is on track for trial.
Leo WolfsonMay 02, 2023
Hageman Named Co-Chair Of Coal Caucus As Her Profile On Capitol Hill Expands
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman has been named a co-chair of the House Coal Caucus, a 33-member group active in legislative and policy debates involving the coal industry. Coal is still a very important industry in Wyoming, producing 41% of the national share.
Leo WolfsonMay 02, 2023
Chuck Gray Skips National Secretaries of State Conference, Attends Gathering Run By Election Deniers
Secretary of State Chuck Gray was at an elections conference hosted by the conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation in February instead of attending the National Association of Secretaries of State conference held the same week in the same city.
Leo WolfsonMay 02, 2023
Hageman Accuses Head of ATF Of Trying 'To Subvert The Authority Of Congress' With Gun Regs
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman grilled the head of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives during a committee meeting, accusing the agency of changing regulations on bump stocks and pistol braces as a way to bypass Congress.
Leo WolfsonMay 01, 2023
Sweetwater County GOP Chair Runs For Vice Chair Of Wyoming Republican Party On Ticket Opposing Eathorne
Elizabeth Bingham, who’s chaired the Sweetwater County Republican Party since 2019, said the state GOP needs unity and new leadership and believes she and chairman candidate Frank Moore can deliver that.
Leo WolfsonApril 30, 2023
Wyoming Judges Facing "Dramatic Increase" In Threats, Says State Supreme Court Justice
Citing a spike in incidents in the past year, Wyoming Supreme Court Justice John Fenn said the Legislature needs to consider acting to increase security in state courtrooms and tighten laws protecting judges.
Leo WolfsonApril 29, 2023
Former Wyoming Schools Chief Brian Schroeder Hired By Arizona Charter School, Parents Say They’re Shocked
Parents at a charter school in Phoenix, Arizona, are upset with the way their charter school’s principals were fired and shocked by the sudden hiring of former Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder.
Leo WolfsonApril 29, 2023
Wyoming Republicans At Crossroads With Election, Couched As Battle For ‘Grassroots’ Or ‘Unity’
Teton County Republican Chair Mary Martin said she was disappointed with the state party’s recent lawsuit with Natrona County and feels that it could’ve been avoided with better leadership instead of “shooting arrows at each other.”
Leo WolfsonApril 28, 2023
Driskill Boots Kinskey To Curb, Will Name Nethercott As Chair Of Senate Appropriations Committee
Senate President Ogden Driskill stripped Sen. Dave Kinskey of his chairmanship of the Senate Appropriations Committee for not attending a meeting in person. Driskill said he will appoint Sen. Tara Nethercott in his place.
Leo WolfsonApril 28, 2023
Eathorne Says He’ll Expose Fake Republicans If Reelected To Lead Wyoming GOP
Wyoming Republican Party Chairman Frank Eathorne says it’s his duty to strictly follow the majority will of his members that decide the party’s platform, and hold elected state GOP officials to the same standard. The two-time party GOP leader faces opposition if he's to win a third term.
Leo WolfsonApril 27, 2023
Gordon Wants More Treatment, Not Jail, For Criminal Offenses In Wyoming
Gov. Mark Gordon and top court officials say a pilot mental health program set to launch in Gillette in 2024 will keep people from sitting too long in county jails instead of having mental health issues addressed, which Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, calls "an astounding waste of resources."
Leo WolfsonApril 27, 2023
Disgraced Former Rock Springs Mayor Was Inspiration For Making Interference With Public Contracts A Felony In Wyoming
Rep. Clark, Stith, R-Rock Springs, said former Rock Springs Mayor Tim Kaumo, who was sentenced Tuesday for official misconduct and conflict of interest charges, inspired part of the law he lobbied for that makes those acts felonies.
Leo WolfsonApril 26, 2023
Former Clinton Official Wants States To Keep Trump Off 2024 Ballot, Chuck Gray Says He ‘Will Absolutely’ Put Him On Wyoming’s
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray says he won’t fall in line with a push by former Clinton Secretary of Labor Robert Reich to keep Donald Trump's name from appearing on state election ballots in 2024. “I will absolutely allow President Donald J. Trump to appear on the ballot,” he said.
Leo WolfsonApril 26, 2023
Former Rock Springs Mayor Tim Kaumo Fined More Than $5,000 For Official Misconduct
Former Rock Springs Mayor Tim Kaumo was fined more than $5,000 on Tuesday after pleading guilty to two charges of using his position as mayor to bolster his own business.
Leo WolfsonApril 26, 2023
“Epic” Spike In Officer-Involved Shootings Detours DCI From Investigating Wyoming Cold Cases
Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigations Director Robert Jones and other officers say a spike in officer-involved shootings last year is taking valuable time away from the agency’s already limited capacity to investigate cold-case murders.
Leo WolfsonApril 25, 2023
Wyoming Democrats Hope To Take Page Out Of Colorado Playbook To Gain Back Power
Wyoming Democratic Chairman Joe Barbuto said his party plans to study some of the tactics used by the Colorado Democratic Party and Democrats across the nation in the last decade to learn how it can regain power in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonApril 23, 2023
Freedom Caucus Members Stand By Decision In Voting Against Suicide Call Centers
Members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus interviewed by Cowboy State Daily said they are standing by their votes not to fund the suicide call centers in Wyoming. Their reasoning varies from wanting to further study the issue to believing it's not the government's role.
Leo WolfsonApril 22, 2023
‘Breaks My Heart’: State Legislators React To Opening Of Second Wyoming Abortion Clinic
House Majority Leader Chip Neiman told Cowboy State Daily the opening of Wyoming's second abortion clinic marks a "sad day for little human beings that don’t have the ability to say no."
Leo WolfsonApril 21, 2023
Wyoming County Clerks Urge Chuck Gray To Reject Election Conspiracy Theories
In a letter to Secretary of State Chuck Gray, the County Clerks Association of Wyoming urge him to ignore an election denier traveling through Wyoming and to reject 2020 election conspiracy theories.
Leo WolfsonApril 20, 2023
After Arson And Delays, Casper Abortion Clinic Opened Thursday
Nearly a year after an arsonist set fire to it, the Wellspring Health Access clinic in Casper opened its doors Thursday. It's now the second place in Wyoming a woman can get an abortion.
Leo WolfsonApril 20, 2023
Democrats Aren’t Dead In Weston County; Party Resurrects After 12-Year Hiatus
Former Newcastle Mayor Deb Piana leads the newly resurrected Weston County Democratic Party, and area Republicans say they welcome an active local two-party system.
Leo WolfsonApril 20, 2023
Liz Cheney Promises "Urgent Warning" In Her New Memoir, "Oath And Honor"
Liz Cheney's publisher announced the release Liz Cheney's new memoir Tuesday, "Oath And Honor," promising the outspoken Trump critic to offer an “urgent warning” as told from her “gripping first-hand account from inside the halls of Congress.”
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2023
Douglas Sheep Rancher Frank Moore To Run Against Frank Eathorne To Lead State Republican Party
Stressing a message of unity, former legislator and longtime sheep rancher Frank Moore told Cowboy State Daily he is running for chairman of the Wyoming Republican Party because he wants to bring “the party back together.”
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2023
Gillette State Rep. Says Wyoming Needs More, Not Fewer, Partisan Political Races
If elected officials deal with budgets, Rep. Chris Knapp, R-Gillette, says political affiliation matters. He wants to push to make city council and school board races partisan in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2023
Gordon Calls Out Wyoming Lawmakers Who Won't Fund 988 Suicide Call Centers
During his Governor’s Mental Health Summit on Tuesday, Gov. Mark Gordon targeted state lawmakers who stand in the way of supporting mental health programs, saying the argument that government shouldn’t be involved is “full of beans," especially as Wyoming leads nation in suicides per capita.
Leo WolfsonApril 18, 2023
Wyoming Democratic Party Chair “Proud To Be Woke,” Blasts Governor, Freedom Caucus For “Fawning” Over Trump
Joe Barbuto, chairman of the Wyoming Democratic Party, says he’s woke and proud of it during a state party event Saturday in Cheyenne. He also blasted Gov. Mark Gordon and members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2023
Gray Vows To Continue Elections Reform, Blasts “Colluding” Media And “Liar” Former Secretary Of State
Secretary of State Chuck Gray told Wyoming conservatives during a Wyoming Freedom Caucus meeting Saturday that he plans to make voter residency his next priority in the upcoming interim session. He also blasted “colluding” media and that “that liar” former Secretary of State Max Maxfield for campaign funding challenge.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2023
Second Amendment Scholar Challenges Gun Control Narrative, Says It Increases Racial Bias In Criminal Justice
An African American Second Amendment scholar from New York is bringing a perspective challenging many of the mainstream narratives that firearms increase crime in America. The professor spoke at UW last week and said gun control laws exacerbate racial bias in the criminal justice system.
Leo WolfsonApril 16, 2023
"We Need 10 More": Freedom Caucus Pushes For More Members At Town Hall, Looks Ahead To 2024
At a town hall on Saturday, the Freedom Caucus said they needed 10 more members to control the House. Members said with 10 more members they could have a consistent voting bloc to get their legislation passed.
Leo WolfsonApril 16, 2023
Statues Of Esther Hobart Morris, Chief Washakie To Stay Put Inside Capitol
Despite calls from some to move large statues honoring Esther Hobart Morris and Chief Washakie back outside the Wyoming Capitol building in Cheyenne, the bronze figures will stay indoors for the foreseeable future.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2023
Barrasso Said To Be Lobbying For McConnell’s Leadership Seat
Speculation in Washington is that U.S. Sen. John Barrasso is lobbying hard to become Senate Minority Leader If beleaguered Mitch McConnell steps down.
Leo WolfsonApril 14, 2023
Cheney Blasts Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Criticism Of Biden Intervention In Ukraine War
Former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney may have been soundly defeated last November but that hasn't stopped her criticism of former colleague Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. On Thursday, Cheney said Taylor Greene should be denied access to any information on national security.
Leo WolfsonApril 14, 2023
In Hot Springs County, Republicans and Democrats All Can Get Along
In what’s now a rare display of unity between Republicans and Democrats in Wyoming, Hot Springs County Republicans and Democrats are going out of their way to understand, if not agree with, each other.
Leo WolfsonApril 14, 2023
Anthony Bouchard Explains Why He Supports Karlee Provenza
State Sen. Anthony Bouchard says all elected officials should be able to post whatever they want on social media without repercussions because that’s a simple avenue of free speech.
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2023
Provenza Says She’s Sorry For Antifa Post That She Says Sparked 5 Death Threats
In an interview with Cowboy State Daily on Wednesday evening, state Rep. Karlee Provenza, D-Laramie, said she didn’t expect the firestorm that came after sharing a controversial social media post, including five death threats. “I think it would be best for everyone if we moved on,” she said.
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2023
No Punishment For Karlee Provenza Over Controversial Antifa Meme
Despite significant outcry from some Wyoming Republicans, Democrat Rep. Karlee Provenza will not face any official punishment for a controversial meme she shared earlier this month of an Antifa meme in protest of transgender treatment and policies.
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2023
How Former Wyoming Gov. Mike Sullivan Played Key Role In Good Friday Peace Accord
Former Wyoming Gov. Mike Sullivan was ambassador to Ireland from 1998-2002 and played a key role in brokering one of the most important peace agreements of the 20th century.
Leo WolfsonApril 12, 2023
Wyoming House Leaders Mum About Meeting With Provenza But Bouchard Comes To Her Defense
Although Wyoming House leaders wouldn't reveal much about a meeting they had with Rep. Provenza about her controversial Antifa post, state Sen. Anthony Bouchard came to her defense stating that "I want people to have free speech."
Leo WolfsonApril 12, 2023
Wyoming's Legislature Banned Crossover Voting, Thermopolis Woman Wants Voters To Ban It Too
Thermopolis resident Cheryl Aguiar isn’t backing off her fight against crossover voting even though the Wyoming Legislature passed a bill in its recent session greatly curtailing the practice in the Cowboy State.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2023
Wyoming House Leadership To Meet With Provenza Tuesday About Antifa Post
Wyoming House leaders will meet with Rep. Karlee Provenza on Tuesday to discuss a meme she posted which garnered national attention showing a woman with a rifle promising to protect "trans folks from fascists and bigots" shortly after a mass shooting in Tennessee.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2023
Controversial Northern Wyoming Land Swap Needs New Appraisal, Says State Official
A leading state official says a new appraisal is needed in a contentious proposed public lands swap in Sheridan County that last was appraised before the COVID-19 pandemic and spike in Wyoming property values.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2023
Hageman Joins New Anti-Woke Caucus To Fight “Bizarre And Dangerous” Ideologies
Wyoming’s freshman Republican U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman is making fighting “the woke agenda” one of her top priorities in Washington, D.C. She has joined newly formed caucus that shares the same goal.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2023
Wyoming History: Recent Tennessee Upheaval Pales In Comparison To 1913 Wyoming Legislative Brawl
The Tennessee Legislature recently caught national attention when it expelled two of its members after they interrupted debate by leading a protest in the legislative chamber. Members of the 12th Wyoming Legislature might call that child’s play.
Leo WolfsonApril 09, 2023
Delayed Again. Why Does A Two-Year-Old Land Swap Proposal At Base Of Bighorns Continue To Languish?
Only State Auditor Kristi Racines tried to get the Board of Land Commissioners to discuss the controversial land transfer in Sheridan County. Everyone else kicked the can down the road as they have done for the last two years.
Leo WolfsonApril 07, 2023
First American Cat To Test Positive For Bird Flu Found In Thermopolis, Wyoming
A cat in Thermopolis has tested positive for the H5N1 avian influenza after eating a bird, Wyoming health officials say. It is the first known case of a cat infected with the virus in the U.S.
Leo WolfsonApril 07, 2023
Biden Proposes Title IX Change To Address Transgender Sports, Wyoming Lawmakers Say It Falls Short
On Thursday afternoon, President Joe Biden unveiled a proposed rule change that would leave it up to individual schools and universities to decide which athletes can compete on a case-by-case basis.
Leo WolfsonApril 07, 2023
Chuck Gray Hammers Financial Advisors About ‘Clown Show Woke Ideology’ ESG Policies
Secretary of State Chuck Gray grilled financial advisors aspiring to manage investments for the State of Wyoming about their stance on ESG policies.
Leo WolfsonApril 06, 2023
New Task Force To Identify State’s Role In Solving Wyoming’s Mental Health Crisis
There was one memory that always stuck with Speaker of the House state Rep. Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale, through the years; a senior citizen found in her home in Pinedale, surrounded by dog feces and an overall state of filth.
Leo WolfsonApril 06, 2023
Eathorne Calls On Speaker To Strip Provenza Of Committee Positions For "Promotion Of Violence"
In a letter Wyoming to Speaker of the House Albert Sommers, Republican Party Chairman Frank Eathorne requested that Minority Whip Karlee Provenza be stripped of her committee assignments because of a meme she posted last weekend.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2023
Harriet Hageman, Wyoming Republicans, Speak Against Trump Indictment
With the case against former President Donald Trump finally unsealed on Tuesday, many Wyoming conservatives are speaking up in defense of the former president.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2023
Teton County GOP Chair May Run Against Wyoming GOP Chair Frank Eathorne
Citing a desire for a competitive election, a few county Republican Party chairman say they would like Wyoming Chairman Frank Eathorne challenged in the state party’s upcoming election.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2023
Wyoming Supreme Court Disbars Former Laramie County District Attorney Leigh Anne Manlove
Former Laramie County District Attorney Leigh Anne Manlove has been officially disbarred for mismanagement of the Laramie County District Attorney’s Office.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2023
Many In Wyoming Not High On NBA Lifting Ban For Pot Use
A group of Wyoming residents and a state lawmaker in northwest Wyoming are speaking out against the National Basketball Association legalizing marijuana use for its players. A state pro-cannabis group, however, sees the NBA move as positive for Wyoming legalization efforts.
Leo WolfsonApril 03, 2023
Wyoming Lawmaker Apologizes For Politically-Charged Post, Gets Death Threats
State Rep. Karlee Provenza, D-Laramie, has apologized for a politically-charged social media post featuring an old woman holding a rifle to protect transgender rights “against fascists & bigots!” On Monday, she apologized, along with reportedly getting some death threats.
Leo WolfsonApril 03, 2023
Spiritual Trip To Israel Also A Political Lesson For Wyoming Lawmaker
State Rep. Jeremy Haroldson says a 10-day trip he recently took to Israel has given him a new perspective on how to approach legislation at the Wyoming Capitol.
Leo WolfsonApril 02, 2023
Weston County Commissioners Voted In Secret, Sent Illegal Group Texts, Court Petition Says
Current and former Weston County commissioners will be deposed in a lawsuit challenging the process they used to appoint a state lawmaker in 2021. They deny allegations they illegally conducted county business out of the public view via group text messages.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2023
Lawsuit: Wyoming Dept of Education Admits Some Public Funds Were Spent On Private Event
In contrast to what they previously said, the Wyoming Department of Education admitted state money was used to fund the former Interim Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder’s “Stop the Sexualization of Our Children” press conference.
Leo WolfsonMarch 31, 2023
Wyoming Delegation Defends Trump, Calls Indictment Politically Motivated And Witch Hunt
Wyoming's Congressional delegation was quick to defend former President Donald Trump after an announcement he’s been indicted by a New York City grand jury. They said the prosecution was politically motivated and a witch hunt.
Leo WolfsonMarch 30, 2023
Wyoming Abortion Lawsuit Expands To Include Ban On Chemical Abortion Pills
Abortion rights supporters have filed an amended lawsuit that now includes a challenge to a recently passed ban on chemical abortion pills, along with Wyoming’s new sweeping ban on nearly all forms of abortion.
Leo WolfsonMarch 30, 2023
Hageman Calls Out ‘Stunning’ Social Media Censorship In Subcommittee Meeting
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, said the Biden administration and “government hacks” must be held accountable for censoring social media over COVID-19 claims during a Thursday meeting of the House Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government.
Leo WolfsonMarch 30, 2023
Wyoming Republicans Fracture As Faction Forms To Counter Hard-Right Wyoming Freedom Caucus
A new group of Republicans in the state Legislature calling themselves the Wyoming Caucus says it will organize to re-invigorate and unite ‘traditional Republicans.’
Leo WolfsonMarch 29, 2023
Wyoming LGBTQ Group Plans To Fight Transgender Sports Ban In Court
A Wyoming LGBTQ advocacy group is planning to challenge in court recently passed legislation that bans biological males from participating in girls’ sports in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMarch 29, 2023
Chuck Gray Says Complaints Against Rep. Cyrus Western Have “Merit,” Forwards To Wyoming AG
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray said Tuesday he believes four election finance complaints made about a mailer allegedly sent by state Rep. Cyrus Western last summer have merit. He’s forwarded them to Attorney General Bridget Hill.
Leo WolfsonMarch 29, 2023
Suspected Casper Abortion Clinic Arsonist Released On Bond
A woman suspected of lighting fire to a planned abortion clinic in Casper last summer was released from jail on Tuesday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2023
Cheyenne City Council Blunt In Rejection Of Decriminalizing Marijuana By 6-3 Vote
The Cheyenne City Council voted down a proposal Monday to decriminalize marijuana in city limits. Councilman Richard Johnson said his primary motivation was to save the city money on superfluous fines and attorney fees.
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2023
Hageman Grills “Free Expression” Advocate About Allowing First-Graders Access to Pornography
Although a "free expression" advocate repeatedly refused to answer Rep. Hageman's question if Penthouse magazine was suitable for first-graders, Nadine Farid Johnson finally answered and said the pornographic magazine should not be accessible to children.
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2023
Sponsor Of Wyoming’s First-In-The-Nation Chemical Abortion Ban Unfazed By Outside Opinion
State Sen. Tim Salazar, R-Riverton, says he doesn't care what other states or countries think about his bill which became the first in the country to ban chemical abortion pills. They aren't in touch with our values, he said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2023
Let The Bills Do The Talking: Gordon Says He’s Not Swayed By National Spotlight In Wake Of Not Signing Legislation
Although some have complained about Mark Gordon's non-confrontational style, the governor says he's not swayed by state or national criticism. He says his record is enough.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2023
Hageman Vows To Fight Weaponization Of FBI, DOJ And Collusion With Tech Companies
Wyoming U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman told Cowboy State Daily on Friday that she is appalled by what she sees as the federal government suppressing free speech and surveillance on citizens and will do "everything in her power" to stop it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 24, 2023
Lummis Praises Legislature For Passing Transgender Sports & Abortion Bills
On a conference call with reporters, U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis on Thursday said she agreed with the Wyoming Legislature for passing the transgender sports bill and the 'Life is a Human Right Act'.
Leo WolfsonMarch 24, 2023
Wyoming Legislature: Joint Management Council Identifies Interim Topics For Off-Session
The Joint Management Council on Thursday identified topics legislative committees will be focused on before the next session. Combatting ESG or "woke capitalism" will be a main focus.
Leo WolfsonMarch 24, 2023
Wyoming Woman Says She Set Fire To Casper Abortion Clinic To Quiet Her Nightmares
Lorna Green, who made her first appearance in federal court on Thursday morning, told investigators she set fire to a planned abortion clinic in Casper last year because she was having nightmares about it
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2023
Cheyenne City Council First In Wyoming To Consider – And Vote Down – Pot Decriminalization
The Cheyenne City Council considered marijuana decriminalization Wednesday night, but despite a strong public turnout in support of the measure, the council voted 5-2 against it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2023
Vice President Kamala Harris Bashes Gordon Over Wyoming’s New Abortion Laws
Vice President Kamala Harris bashed Gov. Mark Gordon and state lawmakers after Wyoming became the first state to ban the chemical abortion bill.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2023
Five State Officials In Line To Lead WYDOT After Previous Director Abruptly Retires
In the wake of former Wyoming Department of Transportation Director Luke Reiner’s abrupt retirement, the governor will choose from five state employees to replace him.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2023
Benched During Session, Sen. Dan Laursen’s ‘Unbelievably’ Good Behavior Gets Him Back On Committees
Powell Sen. Dan Laursen is out of Senate President Ogden Driskill's doghouse and has been rewarded for good behavior by being placed on a committee. He was the only legislator, out of 93, not to be assigned to a standing committee last session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2023
Sheridan County GOP, Fed Up With Legislature’s Inaction, Asks Schools To Ban Teaching Of Sexual Topics To Children
Sheridan County Republican Party committeeman Tod Windsor said the local party was "fed up" with the state Legislature for not passing a law prohibiting teachers from teaching sexual topics to third graders and younger, so they are asking the local school districts to put up their own ban.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2023
Hageman Calls Potential Trump Indictment ‘Persecution’ And ‘Woke Politicization’
Now that former President Trump could be on the brink of being indicted, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says the efforts of a New York City district attorney investigating him are nothing more than a witch hunt.
Leo WolfsonMarch 21, 2023
Sheridan GOP Censures Rep. Cyrus Western, Call For Resignation: He Says They Won’t Get It
Cyrus Western, R-Big Horn, was censured Saturday by the Sheridan County Republican Party for his alleged role in a political mailer that targeted local people and labeled them as “Wanted … for trying to tear our state apart.” The party also called for Western to resign; he says he won’t.
Leo WolfsonMarch 21, 2023
Halverson Ousted As Wyoming County GOP Elections Move Toward ‘Traditional Republican’ Leadership
Lincoln County politico Marti Halverson was ousted as chair of the county party over the weekend in favor of a more moderate Republican. She was one of many hardline conservatives who lost to more moderates across the state.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2023
Gordon’s Refusal To Sign Certain Bills A Political Statement, Lawmakers Say
Some legislators were critical of Gov Gordon for taking the maximum amount of time legally and then letting bills become law without his signature like the transgender sports bill and an abortion bill, while others say weren't bothered by Gordon's lack of support.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2023
Legislating By Template Draws Criticism, But Former Lawmakers Say That’s Nothing New
Although Gov Mark Gordon and House Speaker Albert Sommers condemned bills that were influenced by outside sources, longtime former legislators told Cowboy State Daily that using or adapting legislation that has been successful in other states is nothing new.
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2023
Harriet Hageman Clocks In For A Shift At Sheridan Home Depot
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman got to upgrade her political toolbox to tackle issues facing local Wyoming industry this week with a tour of northern Wyoming businesses, including putting on an apron to cover a “shift” at the Sheridan Home Depot.
Leo WolfsonMarch 17, 2023
Wyoming Snubbed – Again – For Wildfire Protection, Delegation Blasts Biden
Wyoming was the only Western state left out of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 10-year investment plan for mitigating wildfires.
Leo WolfsonMarch 17, 2023
Gordon Vetoes Cheney-Inspired Absentee Ballot Bill; Sec Of State Chuck Gray Disappointed
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a Chuck Gray-supported election security bill on Friday that would have banned members of the public from mailing absentee ballot request forms to voters. This was a practice used by former congresswoman Liz Cheney during her 2020 campaign.
Leo WolfsonMarch 17, 2023
Cheyenne Could Become First Wyoming City To Decriminalize Marijuana
The Cheyenne City Council is expected to consider a proposal to decriminalize marijuana within city limits at a meeting next week.
Leo WolfsonMarch 16, 2023
“Traditional” Republicans Take Back Uinta County GOP In Party Coup
A contentious election that ousted the Uinta County Republican Party leadership Tuesday night may be a sign of a trend of more moderate Republicans taking power back from the party’s hardline conservative faction.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2023
Wyoming’s Suicide Rate Falls As 988 Call Centers Field 10,000 Calls In Two Months
The executive director for the Wyoming Association of Mental Health believes the states two 988 suicide call centers, now staffed 24/7, can be partially credited for Wyomings improving numbers. The centers have fielded more than 10,000 calls since January.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2023
12-Car Train Derailment In Cheyenne Cause For Concern, Says Former Legislator, Conductor
Former legislator and long-time conductor Stan Blake said the 12-car train derailment in Cheyenne should be a major cause of concern for an industry beset by mishaps. What if hazardous waste had spilled out right outside downtown Cheyenne?" he asked recalling the recent disaster in East Palestine, Ohio.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2023
Wyoming Ranchers Support $80 Million, 264-Ft. Dam In Medicine Bow Forest, Others Oppose Plan
A proposed dam in the Medicine Bow National Forest is billed as a way to support ranchers in drought-stricken years. Opponents, some from as far away as Poland and San Francisco, say the project will only benefit a small number of water users so it's not in the "public interest."
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2023
Recovering Rawlins EMT Grateful As She Recalls I-80 Crash As ‘The Worst Day Of My Entire Life’
When a semitrailer plowed into a crash scene on I-80 in December, many lives were changed. One EMT was killed and another, Tiffany Gruetzmacher of Rawlins, has been recovering slowly.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2023
April Trial Set For Former Rock Springs Mayor Accused Of Using Office For Financial Gain
Former Rock Springs Mayor Tim Kaumo will let a judge decide whether he tried to use his position as mayor to beat out competing bidders on a multimillion-dollar construction project in 2020. The trial will begin on April 25.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2023
With Legal Bill At $50,000, A Broke Uinta County Republican Party Makes Plea For Donations
As it continues to fight a lawsuit brought by one of its own members, the Uinta County Republican Party is asking for help paying a legal tab thats so far reached about $50,000.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2023
Cheyenne Native Gets Prestigious “Nebula Award” Nomination For Science Fiction Writing; Top Award In Industry
Cheyenne native Steve Lerner has been nominated for a prestigious Nebula Award for science fiction writing for his work in the creation of the video game "Stray" which tells the story of a stray cat making its way through a dystopian underworld.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2023
Analysis: Wyoming Moderate Conservatives Had More Success In 2023 Legislative Session
A Cowboy State Daily political analysis shows that although there were a few outliers, Wyoming lawmakers closer to the center of the aisle politically had the highest success rate for getting bills passed during this years legislative session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2023
Gordon Announces WYDOT Director Luke Reiner’s Retirement
In a short three paragraph statement released late Thursday afternoon, Gov. Mark Gordon announced Wyoming Dept of Transportation Director Luke Reiner would be retiring.
Leo WolfsonMarch 10, 2023
Hageman Supportive Of Release of Additional January 6 Footage
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman on Thursday said she was supportive of the release of all the footage related to January 6.
Leo WolfsonMarch 10, 2023
Hageman Denounces Transgender Surgeries, Doesn’t Regret Criticizing Legislators For Failure To Act
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman on Wednesday defended calling out Wyoming lawmakers last month for not passing legislation that would prohibit gender-related surgeries in Wyoming. It is absolutely something that should not be going on and I will double down on that when it comes to our children, she said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2023
Secretary of State Chuck Gray Pleased With Election Integrity Improvements Passed In Legislature
Although it wasnt an overwhelmingly successful legislative session for staunch conservatives, election security was one bright spot, which Secretary of State Chuck Gray made his presence well-heard in.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2023
Lawsuit Claims Former Wyoming Education Chief Used State Money To Pay For Political Event
Former Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder, along with the Wyoming Department of Education, is being sued for using state money for a political event and offering misleading statements when asked about it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2023
The Ghost Of Liz Cheney: Legislature Passed Two Bills In Reaction to Cheney’s Failed Campaign
The successful bills to ban crossover voting and to prohibit any campaign from distributing official absentee ballot request forms were both drafted in response to former Rep. Liz Cheney's campaign.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2023
Gordon Noncommittal On Signing Abortion, Transgender Sports Bills
At a press conference on Tuesday morning, Gov. Mark Gordon wouldnt say whether he will sign two abortion bills and a transgender sports ban bill into law.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2023
Leo Wolfson: It Was A Wild And Woolly 2023 Legislative Session
Posting nearly 360 legislative stories during the 37-day session of the 2023 Wyoming Legislature, Cowboy State Dailys lead politics reporter Leo Wolfson already counting the days until 2024.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2023
Governor Wants Disaster Designation For Ranchers Hammered By Brutal Wyoming Winter
Gov. Mark Gordon submitted a request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture on Monday to help Wyoming farmers cope with the impacts of a brutal winter.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2023
2023 Legislature By The Numbers: 500 Bills, 23 Vetoes (So Far) & More Than 3,000 Cups Of Coffee
From gender identity to health care and property taxes, Wyoming lawmakers plowed through high-profile issues in a 37-day session. Along the way, they considered nearly 500 bills fueled by more than 3,000 cups of Capitol coffee.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2023
“It’s A Time Machine”: There’s No One Better To Give A Tour Of The Capitol Than Rep. Steve Harshman
State Rep. Steve Harshman, who has represented Casper for 20 years in the Legislature, takes a special interest in the history of the Wyoming Capitol as he has helped oversee many of its recent restoration projects.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2023
Who Are The Guys That Read Out The Bills During The Legislative Session?
There are two voices likely heard more than any other in the Wyoming Legislature, yet their names are rarely uttered on the two chamber floors. The two reading clerks announce the title and number of each bill assigned in the House and the Senate.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2023
Only 21, 26, And 27-Years-Old But They’re Serving In The Wyoming Legislature
The son of an immigrant, when freshman Rep. Daniel Singh informed his grandfather he had been elected to the Wyoming State House, his grandfather called him and said this is the best gift I couldve received in my entire life.
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2023
Lloyd Christmas Would Be Proud: Freshman Legislator Starts Cringeworthy “Flashy Friday” Tradition
One outfit in particular looked like Lloyd Christmas' from the movie 'Dumb and Dumber.' But no one was filming a sequel in the Wyoming State Capitol, it was just something a freshman legislator called "Flashy Friday."
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2023
Gov. Gordon Criticizes Out-Of-State Influences; Rep. Bear Calls Gordon “Arrogant” For Criticism
In remarks to the Legislature on Friday, Gov Gordon criticized legislation that was modeled on bills already passed in other states. Rep. John Bear said Gordon's remarks were "arrogant" and an excuse for "more conservative bills not passing."
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2023
Gordon “Scolds” Two Senators For Getting Appointee Voted Down But Victorious In The End
Things got testy after two Park County senators were successful in getting one of Gov Gordon's appointees shot down. But after a successful campaigning effort, Gordon's appointee got voted back in, much to the displeasure of the senators.
Leo WolfsonMarch 03, 2023
Gordon Allows Crossover Voting Bill To Pass Into Law Without Signature; Big Win For Chuck Gray
Although Gov Mark Gordon didn't sign the crossover voting bill on Thursday, he didn't veto it either. So it went into law without his signature. Stopping crossover voting was one of Chuck Gray's top priorities.
Leo WolfsonMarch 03, 2023
Hageman’s Comments To State Legislative Members ‘Unheard Of’ In History Of Body
When U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman criticized members of the Legislature earlier this week, she did something that the congressional delegation never does -- get involved in their business. Former Sen. Al Simpson called it "embarrassing." Other former members said it was bad form.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2023
Cheney To Become College Professor In Virginia; No Word On Possible 2024 Presidential Run
Former Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney has accepted a job at the University of Virginia's Center for Politics where she will serve as a professor.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2023
Wyoming Won’t Stop Employers From Requiring Staff To Receive Microchips
The Wyoming State House defeated a bill on Wednesday morning that would have prohibited employers from requiring their staff to implant microchips in their bodies.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2023
Senate Passes Postpartum Medicaid Extension, Bill Headed To Governor’s Desk
A bill that would provide around six times more postpartum Medicaid coverage to new mothers in Wyoming was approved in the Senate on Wednesday afternoon by a razor thin 16-14 vote. It now heads to the governor's office to be signed into law.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2023
Senate President Driskill Gives Anthony Bouchard Last Warning For Ethics Complaints
Senate President Ogden Driskill warned Cheyenne Republican Senator Anthony Bouchard in a letter Wednesday that he could face serious penalties, including expulsion from the Senate, if future ethics complaints against him are substantiated.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2023
Strike 2! Bouchard Gets Hit With Ethics Complaint Over “Doctors For Grooming” Comment & More
A lobbyist filed an ethics complaint over comments Sen. Anthony Bouchard made on his Facebook page. One of his comments said members of the Wyoming Medical Society should call themselves "Doctors For Grooming" for their support of allowing children to undergo gender change surgeries and treatments.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2023
Convention Of The States Bill Killed In Monday Night Massacre; Fear Of Losing 2nd Amendment Rights Cited
Many conservative legislators abandoned state Sen. Dan Laursens, Convention of States bill on Monday. Many opponents said they feared a runaway convention that ends up stripping away Second Amendment rights.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2023
Mortuary Of Dead Bills Leads To Pointing Of Fingers At Wyoming State Legislature
It was a bloodbath for bills on Monday night as the Wyoming Legislature killed nearly a dozen bills. And legislators are blaming each other for the fatalities.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2023
Harriet Hageman Calls Out Another State Legislator; Second Time In Three Days
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman made state Rep. Landon Brown, R-Cheyenne, her target on Monday after he called her out for criticizing Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2023
Wyoming LGBTQ Advocacy Group Holds Protest In Opposition To Transgender Sports Bill
Opponents of a bill that would ban biological males from competing in girls public-school sports said they accept that their battle may be a losing one as the bill continues to steamroll forward.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2023
Ethics Complaint Filed Against Sen. Anthony Bouchard After He Calls Person “F**king Idiot”
A Green River woman filed a complaint with the Legislative Management Council Sunday after she said Cheyenne state Sen. Anthony Bouchard cursed at her over a dispute on his "Chloe's Law" bill in a private text message on Saturday night.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2023
“Shame On You!” Legislator Says Technique To Substitute Bill Thwarted Will Of People
State Sen. Bo Biteman lashed out at the House Appropriations Committee for substituting a bill rather than offering amendments. Just vote it up or vote it down but to do this after hearing all the testimony and pull this on a fellow legislator, its not OK and its not how we do business around here.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 26, 2023
Hageman Nudges Sommers To Quit Sitting On Bills: “This Is About Protecting Our Children”
Congresswoman Harriet Hageman on Saturday urged Speaker of the House Albert Sommers to take action on bills addressing gender identity, gender surgeries, and school vouchers. "This is about protecting our children. In Congress, Im fighting for these very issues. I hope the Wyoming legislature will do the same," she said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 26, 2023
End To Crossover Voting Bill Close To Hitting Gordon’s Desk, But Will He Sign It?
A bill that will restrict voters from changing party affiliation to influence the results of other parties primary elections has reached its farthest point in the Wyoming Legislature. But Gov. Mark Gordon has so far been noncommittal on whether hed sign, veto or let it pass unsigned.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 25, 2023
Another Attempt To Override Wyoming House Speaker Defeated
Staunch conservatives have been trying every trick in the book to get past Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers, who is blocking some bills from being heard or assigned to a committee. None have worked so far.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2023
Wyoming Legislators OK First Per Diem Rate Increase Since 2005
A joint conference committee of the Wyoming Legislature voted Friday to support increasing the per diem rate paid to state lawmakers and other officials citing concerns that people may be dissuaded from public service because they may fear it would be a financial drain.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2023
Bouchard Calls For House Speaker To Be Censured For Inaction On Child Sex Change Bill
State Sen. Anthony Bouchard is outraged that his bill to forbid doctors from performing gender-change treatments on children has been subjugated to the bottom of the Speaker of the Houses drawer with a do not pass recommendation from the House Appropriations Committee.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2023
988 Suicide Trust Fund Established; Now All It Needs Is Money
Gov. Mark Gordon signed a raft of 2023 bills into law Thursday, including House Bill 65, which establishes two 988 suicide call centers that, at the time of the bill signing, has no funding.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2023
Crossover Voting Continues To Cause Contention With Wyoming Lawmakers
Resurrected after failing in a committee, an effort to get rid of crossover voting for Wyoming primary elections is close to landing on Gov. Mark Gordons desk. But that hasnt stopped heated debate with supporters saying it protects the integrity of political parties and opponents claiming its outright corruption.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 23, 2023
Workers Lobby Against Bill, Say Wyoming Has Legacy Of Being Anti-Union
Despite passionate testimony from nearly two dozen construction workers and plumbers, Wyoming state lawmakers advanced a bill Wednesday that would prohibit government entities from bidding union-specific projects.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 23, 2023
Jackson Democrat Says If You Vote Against Per Diem Hike, You Shouldn’t Get It
Rep. Mike Yin, D-Jackson, pushed through an amendment to a bill that would raise the per diem for state legislators. His amendment would make it so those who voted against it, would not get the per diem increase.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2023
Wyoming High Schoolers Lobby Legislature for Medicaid Extension
Passionate testimony provided by a pair of Cheyenne high school speech and debate students was the highlight of committee testimony Wednesday as lawmakers considered expanding Medicaid postpartum coverage.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2023
Wyoming Legislature Divides Along Conservative Battle Lines
As it grows in numbers, influence and organization, the Wyoming Freedom Caucus is advising its members daily how to vote on dozens of bills considered by the Wyoming Legislature. Some say thats politics as usual, others that its created a lockstep faction that favors its platform over individual lawmakers.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2023
House Passes Bill Giving State Agencies Blank Check To Pay Moving Expenses For New Employees
Showing nobodys immune to a nationwide hiring squeeze, the Wyoming Legislature on Tuesday advanced a bill allowing state agency heads carte blanche in paying moving expenses for new hires.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2023
Bagpipers Perform On Behalf Of First Responders, Get Standing Ovation From Wyoming Legislature
Before members of the 67th Wyoming Legislature could fill the state Capitol chambers with the hustle and bustle of political babble, the sound of Scottish bagpipes resonated through the halls.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 18, 2023
Wyoming Legislator Says He Was Threatened To Be Removed From Committee Over ‘No’ Vote
A question of how loyal Wyoming legislators should be to their assigned committees vs. voting their conscience came to a head this past week when Joint Judiciary Committee Chairman Rep. Art Washut called out Rep. Mark Jennings for voting against a bill the committee sponsored. Jennings said he was threatened to be removed over his no vote.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 18, 2023
Legislature Signs Off On $1.8 Billion Budget Package, Including $1.4 Billion In Savings
Having experienced plenty of rainy days in recent years, Wyoming legislators are saving for when the states economy storms again, socking away $1.4 billion into savings in the 2023 supplemental budget, which passed the Legislature on Thursday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 17, 2023
Resurrected Bill To End Crossover Voting Still Alive, Advances To Senate Floor
Voters changing parties on primary election day closer to being history as Wyoming lawmakers on Thursday advanced a bill to end the practice. House Bill 103 had been dead until it was resurrected through a rarely used rule.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 17, 2023
Bill Would Honor Former Gov. Who Fought McCarthyism, Wanted To Kick Japanese Americans Out Of Wyoming
Despite a less-than-ideal track record in the eyes of history, state Sen. Cale Case says Lester Hunt deserves official recognition for a career of public service as a former Wyoming secretary of state, governor and U.S. senator.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2023
Drug Court Oversight, Money For Coal Lawsuits Among First Bills To Get Gordon’s Signature
The first bills to work through the Wyoming Legislature this session were signed by Gov. Mark Gordon on Wednesday in a ceremony at the Capitol in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2023
After Stripped Of Funding, Expiration Date Put On Wyoming Suicide Call Centers Bill
A bill originally intended to support Wyomings suicide call centers in perpetuity with a dedicated trust fund has been amended to do almost the opposite.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2023
Harriet Hageman Endorses Trump For President In 2024
Congresswoman Harriet Hageman on Wednesday announced she is endorsing former President Donald Trump in his 2024 presidential campaign.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2023
Gordon To Sign First Bills Of 2023 Legislative Session Into Law On Wednesday
Now in the second month of the Wyoming Legislature's 2023 session, Gov. Mark Gordon is expected Wednesday to sign the first three bills that have so far made it to his desk.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2023
Back From The Dead: Wyoming Senate Resurrects Effort To Stop Crossover Voting
A bill that would make it illegal for voters to change party affiliation after candidates announce theyre running for office had been killed by the Wyoming Legislature. But the state Senate revived it Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2023
Gay Straight Alliance Students Lobby Against Trans Bills At Wyoming Capitol
High school students from around Wyoming were at the Wyoming Capitol in Cheyenne trying to sway opinions on legislation dealing with LGBTQ issues, saying theres not much equality in The Equality State these days.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2023
Bill To Pay Wyoming Lawmakers More For Travel, Food Advances
Senate File 61, which would give state lawmakers their first per diem raise since 2005, moves forward with a 6-3 vote from the House Revenue Committee on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2023
Effort To Allow Chuck Gray To Disqualify Election Equipment Fails
A discussion about certifying federal election equipment Monday became more a debate about Secretary of State Chuck Gray and what his office should and should not have authority to do.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2023
Wyoming Will Continue Cloud Seeding Program After Effort To Nix Program Fails
An effort to eliminate Wyoming's $1.1 million cloud seeding program was voted down by the Wyoming Senate on Monday. Detractors say there is little proof cloud-seeding works.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2023
Want Alternative COVID Medications? Not In Wyoming, Says Senate Committee
Legislation that would have allowed doctors and pharmacists to dispense off-label prescriptions -- like hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin for COVID -- without concern of recourse from medical oversight agencies died in a Senate committee on Monday morning.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2023
Now More Than Ever, Wyoming Legislature Is Seeing Red
This years session of the Wyoming Legislature is showing a more dramatic turn to becoming even more conservative. A growing faction of more conservative Republicans is pushing election reform, COVID-19 anti-discrimination and other agenda issues farther than before.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 12, 2023
Some Wyoming Lawmakers Put Politics Aside For Prayer
While the roster changes depending on the days legislative schedule, about 10 members of the Wyoming Legislature begin their days with prayer, reflection and fellowship in the ornate former state Supreme Court courtroom at the Capitol in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 11, 2023
Bill Making It Easier To Throw Axes, Rope Chickens While Drinking Alcohol In Wyoming Almost Law
A bill that would make expand the number of liquor licenses available to include businesses which offer axe-throwing and chicken-roping has passed the House and Senate and is just one step away from hitting Gov. Gordon's desk.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 11, 2023
Wyoming Senate Takes Rare Mid-Session Day Off Friday
With the state Senate ahead of the House in considering proposed legislation, the body took a day off Friday. State Sen. Charles Scott said this is the first time that's happened in the 44 years that he has served in the Legislature.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 10, 2023
Chuck Gray’s Crossover Voting Bill Gets Shot Down By Committee
The last bill still alive in the Wyoming Legislature that would have eliminated crossover voting failed Thursday in a Senate committee, dashing the chances of Secretary of State Chuck Gray to make good on one of his main campaign promises.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2023
Wyoming State Rep. Says No Truth To Ethics Complaint
State Rep. Jon Conrad said of an ethics complaint against him that there is nothing to the complaint and it is politically motivated.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2023
Local Control Sways Close Vote To Kill Wyoming Rodeo Ban Bill
House Bill 95 was drafted in response to communities in California and other states that are banning rodeos. The House killed the bill on Wednesday by a 32-30 vote.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2023
Wyoming House Passes Extension Of Medicaid Postpartum Coverage To 1 Year
A bill extending postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to a year in Wyoming passed through the state House of Representatives on Wednesday by a 34-28 vote. It will now go to the Senate.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2023
House Kills Effort To Exempt Wyoming From CDC COVID-19 Regs
A bill that would have prevented Wyoming from following World Health Organization and Centers For Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for COVID-19 restrictions died on a close 32-29 vote on the House floor Wednesday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2023
Bill Would Give Wyoming Doctors Free Pass To Prescribe Alternative Drugs For COVID
Legislation that would make it legal for a doctor to prescribe off-label medications like hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin has passed through the Wyoming House on Wednesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2023
Wyoming Should Stand With ‘Sister State’ Taiwan, Says Sen. President Ogden Driskill
From Wyoming beef to whisky, Taiwan is a burgeoning export market for Cowboy State products. A bill moving through the 2023 Legislature calls for Wyoming to make a stand of solidarity with Taiwan as tension with China grow more strained.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2023
Wyoming Senate Kills $5 Million Border Wall Funding After Heated Debate
The Wyoming Senate killed a bill that would have given $5 million to Southern border states to help fight the immigration crisis, but not before a frustrated sponsor Sen. Larry Hicks told his colleagues that failing to do our part could open the door for another 9/11.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2023
Chuck Gray’s Declared Open Season On Election Equipment; Lawmakers May Have Hit Their Limit
A Senate committee Tuesday torpedoed a pair of amendments Secretary of State Chuck Gray crafted that would have given his office authority over county clerks to question and remove election equipment.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2023
Lummis: Wyoming’s Drawing The Blueprint On Cryptocurrency
In a glowing speech on the floor of the Wyoming Senate on Monday, Sen. Lummis referenced the Legislatures work on developing Wyoming as a leader in digital assets, an industry Lummis has shown great interest in.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2023
Wyoming Conservatives Demand Answers From Pfizer Over Project Veritas Video
In a letter written to the pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, 22 conservative members of the Wyoming House said they wanted an explanation of claims made in a Project Veritas video including a claim that Pfizer is trying to capitalize financially by spreading disease, not curing it.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2023
Rep. Ward Calls Out ‘Medical Cartel’ As Wyoming’s Postpartum Medicaid Extension Clears First Reading
Rep. Jeanette Ward said the medical cartel is to be blamed for Americas high rate of infant mortality, treating pregnancy as a disease rather than a healthy event. It has nothing to do with this bill, she said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2023
Mouth-To-Snout: Bill To Allow Ambulance Transport, Medical Treatment For Police Dogs Fails
A bill to authorize ambulance services to transport injured police dogs and for EMS personnel to provide mouth-to-snout resuscitation on police dogs failed in a House committee meeting on Friday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2023
Down, But Not Out: Legislator Tries Again To Opt Wyoming Out Of CDC Health Mandates
Rep. Jeanette Ward saw her first attempt to push back on COVID-19 public health measures fail but by a razor thin margin. So, she's trying again. Her new bill would give the governor the option to ignore federal mandates.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 05, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Vote To Spend $550 Million Over Original Budget; Earmarks $1 Billion Into Savings Too
Spenders and savers squared off over the $550 million extra dollars put into the 2023 supplemental budget that passed through the Wyoming House of Representatives on Friday evening.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 05, 2023
‘Convention of States’ Passes Senate Committee, Barlow Says “Bring Gov’t Back To The People”
Speaking in favor of the Convention of States resolution, Sen. Eric Barlow, who has attended four national conferences on the convention, said, "I find great comfort that it comes back to the states and the people. They get to ultimately make this decision.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 04, 2023
World’s Largest, Most-Advanced Vertical Farming Facility To Be Built In Laramie
A new research facility in Laramie was announced on Thursday for whats promised to be the worlds largest and most advanced indoor agricultural research center. The company has already raised $1 billion for the facility.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 04, 2023
Boom, Boom: Out Go The Lights! Wyoming Capitol Goes Dark, Power Outage Hits Cheyenne
The State Capitol went dark on Friday as a power outage hit Cheyenne at around 2pm. Legislators kept on working though. Some said they even preferred the atmosphere.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 03, 2023
Woman Disrupts Senate, Yells Obscenities After Bill Passes Criminalizing Child Sex-Change Operations
A woman started swearing loudly in the Wyoming Senate Chambers on Thursday in response to the passage of a bill that would criminalize child sex change surgeries.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 03, 2023
Rep. Provenza Confronts GOP Official About Role In Alleged Political Spy Ring
Rep. Karlee Provenza confronted longtime GOP official Marti Halverson about a New York Times story last year which identified Halverson as being part of scheme to spy on Gov. Mark Gordon and others, including Provenza.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 02, 2023
Medicaid Expansion Amendment Dies; Becoming Annual Tradition In Wyoming
Attempts for Medicaid expansion failed on Wednesday night despite State Sen. Cale Case's emotional plea for the measure. Every Medicaid Expansion bill over the last 10 years has failed in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 02, 2023
Bill Making Ballot Harvesting A Felony Passes Committee
The House Corporations Committee passed legislation by an 8 - 1 vote that would make ballot harvesting a felony in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 02, 2023
“Spending Like Drunks!” Supplemental Budget Grows To $481 Million After Daylong Debate
That more money was added to the budget bill riled up some of the more conservative members of the House, like Rep. Chris Knapp who said some lawmakers spend like drunks.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 02, 2023
Bill That Would Allow Nonviolent Felons With Multiple Convictions To Vote Passes Committee
A bill that would allow Wyoming residents convicted of multiple nonviolent felonies to vote once released from their term of incarceration narrowly passed committee on Wednesday by a 5 - 4 margin.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 01, 2023
‘Western Heritage’ Bill Passes Committee; Would Prohibit Communities From Banning Rodeos
House Bill 95 would make it so local governments couldnt ban rodeos just because it doesnt align with their certain ideology, said bill sponsor Rachel Rodriguez-Williams. An animal rights activist said Wyoming needs some "Californication."
Leo WolfsonFebruary 01, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Vote To Reduce Early Voting Window, Require Post-Election Audits
Wyoming elections would be subject to post-election audits and early voting windows would be shortened under a bill advanced by a legislative committee Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 31, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Kill Anti-Vax Discrimination Bill
House Bill 66, which would have prohibited Wyoming businesses, health care facilities and schools from enforcing COVID-19 restrictions, failed its third reading on the House floor by a narrow 31-29 vote.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 31, 2023
Crossover Voting Bills Advance, But Weaker Than Some Wyoming Conservatives Want
A bill that will restrict crossover voting in Wyoming passed through a legislative committee on Monday. The bill would allow voters to change their party affiliation up to 45 days before the primary election.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 31, 2023
Rep. Western, County Commissioner Novotny Named In Campaign Finance Probe
The Sheridan Prosecuting Attorneys office wont pursue complaints after an investigation that named Rep. Cyrus Western, R-Sheridan, and Johnson County Commissioner Bill Novotny for their possible involvement in sending out an attack mailer.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 30, 2023
Wyoming’s Anti-COVID Mandate Bill Chooses ‘Our Freedom’ Over Federal Money, Says Sponsor
By a narrow two-vote margin, the Wyoming House of Representatives has advanced legislation that would prohibit hospitals, businesses, schools and any other facility in the state from mandating COVID-19 vaccinations and other related health requirements such as the wearing of face masks.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 30, 2023
Legislator Wants To Put Teton County Fairgrounds Under State Control; Worried Town Council Will Kill Rodeo
Citing its importance to Wyoming heritage and Wyoming rural heritage, Rep. John Winter wants to make the Teton County Fairgrounds a state historic site. There is concern by some that Jackson residents want to turn the fairgrounds into affordable housing and eliminate the rodeo.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 28, 2023
Wyoming Lawmakers Consider Lowering Bar For Tax Relief
The state House Revenue Committee passed a bill Thursday that would make it easier for Wyoming residents to receive property tax rebates.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 27, 2023
Don’t Buy Property Next To A Farm, Then Complain That Animals Have Sex Outdoors, Bouchard Says
Sen. Anthony Bouchard attempted humor to highlight a serious concern of his: residential development encroaching on agriculture operations, then complaining that theyre smelly, noisy and bothersome to their sensibilities.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 27, 2023
Bill Allocating $5.25 Million Of Wyoming Money To Help Build Border Wall Passes Committee
A bill dedicating $5.25 million to help Arizona and Texas build a border wall and transport migrants to other places passed a Wyoming legislative committee on Thursday afternoon. Gov Gordon said he supports the legislation.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 27, 2023
Chuck Gray Wants To Do Away With ‘Predatory’ Campaign Tactic Used By Cheney
While some call sending unsolicited absentee ballots to voters a predatory campaign practice, others say its just being accommodating. Legislators are debating the tactic used by Liz Cheney and whether her mailers were unethical.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2023
Wyoming House Re-Establishes 988 Suicide Call Center Trust Fund – With A $0 Balance
The Wyoming State House added an amendment to legislation on Wednesday morning that would allow private individuals and nonprofits to help fund state-run 988 suicide call centers in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2023
Hageman On Committee That Will Investigate FBI, Social Media Tech Giants
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman was chosen for a committee on Tuesday that will allow her to fulfill some of her campaign promises to investigate the federal government and its dealings.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2023
Wyoming Senate Green-Lights Lower Property Taxes; Housing Allowance For Judges
The Wyoming State Senate passed two bills Tuesday: one would grant property tax relief and another would give a housing allowance to state judges.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 26, 2023
Legislative Committee Moves Forward With Bill Protecting Reporters From Revealing Sources
A legislative committee on Wednesday advanced a media shield law by an 8 - 1 vote that would protect journalists in Wyoming from revealing their sources. Wyoming is one of only two states without a shield law.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2023
Wyoming Freedom Caucus Wants State Attorney General To Take Stance On Social Credit Scores
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus wants Attorney General Bridget Hill to come out against social credit scores. They said Bridget Hill should "take a stand and protect Wyoming's extractive industries and way of life."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2023
Gordon Says No Problems With Guatemalans In Gillette; Rep. Bear Not Convinced
Gov. Mark Gordons office found nothing to confirm Rep. John Bears concerns that potentially undocumented Guatemalans had landed in Wyoming. Bear wants a further investigation.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2023
Sec Of State Chuck Gray Actively Lobbying Legislature; Rep Calls It ‘Uncouth” & “Unstately”
Although Chuck Grays active legislative lobbying has surprised some people, it doesn't infringe on any state laws and many legislators have no problem with it. The longest serving member of the House, however, calls it "uncouth" and "unstately."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 25, 2023
Bill Would Prohibit Former Legislators From Immediately Becoming Lobbyists With 2-Year Wait Period
There are at least three lobbyists at the Capitol this session who were still elected members of the Wyoming Legislature less than two weeks ago. A bill has been introduced that would require legislators to cool off for two years before becoming lobbyists.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 22, 2023
Legislature Pulls Trust-Fund Support For Suicide Call Centers
State Rep. Landon Brown said carving out the $46 million trust fund from a bill establishing the national 988 suicide call center program in Wyoming was the bill's best chance to pass.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 21, 2023
Watered-Down Vax Bill Advances; Drops Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella Language
A previous version of the bill prohibited all vaccine mandates for COVID-19 and any other infectious virus or disease. This would have included other diseases like measles, mumps, polio and rubella.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 21, 2023
Committee Kills Ranked Choice Voting For Wyoming
Citing ballot exhaustion, costs and potential to confuse voters, a Wyoming House committee killed a proposal that would have allowed state municipalities to test ranked choice voting.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 21, 2023
Gov. Gordon Tests Positive For COVID, Will Work From Home
Wyoming Gov Mark Gordon announced on Friday that he has tested positive for Covid. He sad the symptoms are minor and will work from home.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 20, 2023
House Committee Passes Medicaid Expansion, But Not For Gender Surgeries
An effort to expand Medicaid in Wyoming cleared its first hurdle but not before Rep. John Bear added an amendment to the bill that stipulates no state money could be used for transgender surgical operations.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2023
Two Bills Would Make Concealed Carry Permits Legal Identification To Vote In Wyoming
State Sen Lynn Hutchings told Cowboy State Daily that when she arrived at a polling place to vote, she realized she had no form of identification besides her concealed-carry permit. She said, "I'm a state legislator. I'm going to fix that."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2023
Rep. John Bear Remark About Guatemalans Landing In Gillette Sparks Refugee Rumor
A comment state Rep. John Bear made on Thursday morning that dozens of Guatemalans were on a flight that landed in Gillette on Wednesday night has stoked the political rumor mill at the Capitol that it was an influx of refugees.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2023
Hageman Warns U.S. Heading For Fiscal Cliff, Says Legislators Must Fight For Coal, Oil & Gas
U.S. Rep Harriet Hageman on Wednesday told Wyoming legislators that the U.S. is heading for a "fiscal cliff" and it was important that they continue to fight for coal, oil, and gas.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2023
Chuck Gray Gets Another Win As Committee Strikes Down Bill Changing How Vacancies Are Filled
Sec of State Chuck Gray lobbied against a bill that would have required special elections to fill seats of elected officials if more than half of a term remained. The legislative committee rejected the bill by a 5-3 vote.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 19, 2023
Casper Legislator’s Covid Bill Would Also Prohibit Required Vaccines For Polio, Measles, Mumps
Although Rep. Ward said her Covid bill which would also prohibit required vaccines for polio, measles, mumps and other infectious diseases is a way to prioritize the rights of individuals, physicians said it would put Wyoming "back a few centuries."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 18, 2023
Perhaps Largest Group Ever, Freshman Lawmakers May Hold Real Political Power In Wyoming
With 34 first-year members of the 67th Legislature nearly 37% of the 93-member body freshman legislators have potential to be the most influential first-term class in Wyoming history, but they will have to come together to make that happen.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 18, 2023
Rick Santorum Pushes Convention Of U.S. States While In Wyoming, Says Trump No Longer Strong
Former U.S. Sen Rick Santorum was in Wyoming on Monday to advocate for a "convention of the states." He said if there are 38 states in the convention, they can pass amendments that are legally binding.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 17, 2023
From Chicken-Roping To Ax-Throwing, Lawmakers Debate New Class Of Liquor License For Wyoming
Senate File 12 would create a new kind of liquor license in Wyoming for businesses that want to provide alcohol along with entertainment activities like chicken-roping and ax-throwing.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 17, 2023
Far Right And Moderate Republicans Reach Compromise On Wyoming House Rule
Elevating from a simple majority to two-thirds vote to overrule House speaker or majority floor leader, some Republicans say factions are finding middle ground. Others, however, say theyve instead installed the king and his count.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 17, 2023
Families Of Wyoming Law Officers Who Die On Job Get Much Less Than Other States; Bill Would Change That
Senate File 18 would bring Highway Patrol troopers, as well as Game and Fish wardens and criminal investigators death benefits to a level equal to other law enforcement officers in the state.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 16, 2023
Trump Says Barrasso Is McConnell’s ‘Flunky’ And Takes More Shots At Gordon In Radio Interview
During a Sheridan radio appearance on Saturday, former President Trump called Sen. John Barrasso a "flunky" of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and said Gov. Mark Gordon was "very liberal."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 15, 2023
Daddy Day Care From The Floor Of The Wyoming Senate
State Sen. Brian Boner, R-Douglas, was a champion multitasking at the Wyoming Capitol on Friday. Parenting duties unexpectedly came to him so he worked through the day with his 18-month-old son Martin.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 14, 2023
Deacon Says Extending Medicaid Not ‘Fiery Pit Of Socialism’ As Bill Moves Forward
Legislation extending Medicaid coverage for new mothers from 60 days to 12 months passed out of a state House committee by a 5-4 vote on Friday, but not without some passionate debate on both sides.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 13, 2023
Bill Would Establish $46 Million Trust For Wyoming Suicide Call Centers
Emotional testimony helped Wyoming lawmakers advance House Bill 65, which would provide a permanent steam of money to operate the states 24/7 suicide hotline call centers.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 13, 2023
New Effort Introduced To Strip Chuck Gray Of Election Oversight
State Rep. Ken Chestek has introduced legislation to take away all election oversight from Secretary of State Chuck Gray. Gray said the effort is "petty" and "unconstitutional"
Leo WolfsonJanuary 13, 2023
Legislators Worried About Californication Of Wyoming, Introduce Bill Protecting Rodeos
Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams is championing legislation that would prevent towns and counties from banning activities like rodeos. Sen. Dan Laursen says he is concerned with influx of Californians to the state, especially to Jackson.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 12, 2023
In Reversal, Gordon Supports Medicaid Expansion For Postpartum Care
Is Gov Gordon weakening on Medicaid expansion? The head of Health and Human Services in Wyoming said the governor supports a House bill that would extend postpartum coverage offered through Medicaid to mothers for a 12-month period.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 12, 2023
Chuck Gray Scores Victory With Defeat Of Bill That Would Have Prevented Ballot Inspections
Sec of State Chuck Gray scored a victory on Wednesday as a bill that would have prevented ballot inspections was defeated in a House committee. He lobbied members of the committee to vote against it.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 12, 2023
Gordon Slams Biden, Urges Legislators To Be Fiscally Conservative With $2 Billion Surplus
In addition to slamming President Biden for his energy and economic policies, Gov Mark Gordon, in his State of the State address, urged legislators to be cautious with the $2 billion surplus Wyoming has.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 11, 2023
Trump Says He Wanted Bo Biteman To Run For Governor Against Gordon
In a Tuesday interview with Sheridan radio host Jeff Wallack, former President Donald Trump said he would have endorsed Bo Biteman had he run for governor against Mark Gordon. He also said Biteman should run for the job in 2026.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 11, 2023
Ninth Time’s A Charm – Medicaid Expansion Again On Docket For Wyoming Lawmakers
Wyoming is the only state in the West that hasnt approved federal Medicaid expansion, something a small but vocal group rallied to change on the steps of the Capitol on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 11, 2023
No Last Minute Surprise Coup From Jennings As Albert Sommers Named Speaker Of The House
Although there were rumors that Rep. Mark Jennings would launch a surprise last-minute attempt to lead the Wyoming House, it didn't happen. Albert Sommers was unanimously named Speaker of the House on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 10, 2023
Legislative Preview: Gov. Gordon To Give State Of The State To More Conservative Legislature
Although the formal swearing in of legislators and procedural activities happened Tuesday, the bulk of meaningful action wont start until 10 a.m. Wednesday when Gov. Mark Gordon will give his State of the State speech
Leo WolfsonJanuary 10, 2023
Wyoming Wrestlers Who Fought Grizzly Nearly Fully Recovered
Northwest college wrestlers Kendell Cummings and Brady Lowry have returned to the wrestling mat less than three months after being viciously attacked by a grizzly bear.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 08, 2023
Wyoming Legislator To Introduce Bill Prohibiting Employers From Microchipping Workers
Sen. Dan Laursen is championing a bill that would prohibit employers from making employees have microchips implanted in their bodies.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 06, 2023
Wyoming Legislator To Reintroduce Bill To Stop Crossover Voting
While crossover voting didn't help former Rep. Liz Cheney at all, state Rep. Jeremy Haroldson is reintroducing legislation that would stop the practice of crossover voting in Wyoming primary elections.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 06, 2023
Wyo Freedom Caucus Upset At Proposed Rule Change: “It’s A Power Grab” By Moderates
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is claiming that proposed rule changes will make it easier for moderate Republicans to override the legislature's more conservative leadership.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 06, 2023
Job No. 1 For New Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray: Find Staff
In total, there were 12 resignations between the time Gray won the August primary election and before he was sworn into office Tuesday. That includes four of five executive team members, as well as more than a third of the offices overall staff.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 05, 2023
Schuler To Reintroduce Transgendered Athletics Bill Banning Biological Males In Female Sports
State Sen. Wendy Schuler said shes bringing back her Fairness in Womens Sports Act which, if passed, would prohibit biological males from participating in female sports.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 04, 2023
Wyoming Freedom Caucus Teams Up With National Freedom Caucus Network
State Rep. John Bear told Cowboy State Daily that the Wyoming Freedom Caucus is joining up with a national Freedom Caucus network which includes 9 other states to advance a "very conservative agenda."
Leo WolfsonJanuary 04, 2023
Hageman Backs McCarthy In High Drama House Speaker Stalemate; 4th Vote Wednesday
Kevin McCarthy is still not the House Speaker after three votes on Tuesday left Congress in a stalemate. Hageman voted for McCarthy while Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert yelled "bullshit!" at McCarthy when he said he earned the job.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2023
Inauguration In Wyoming Capitol Rotunda Is First In At Least 50 Years
Monday's inauguration and swearing in of Wyoming statewide officials was the first in at least five decades held at the Capitol Rotunda, and the first since 1999 held at the state Capitol.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2023
Gordon Calls For Dialogue Over Heated Social Media Divisiveness In Monday Inauguration
Wyomings top elected officials were sworn in at the state Capitol on Monday, including first-term Secretary of State Chuck Gray and Gov. Mark Gordon for a second term.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 02, 2023
Gordon, Other Wyoming State Officials Will Be Sworn In Monday
The start of the 2023 political season begins early Monday with a traditional Prayer Breakfast followed by a swearing in ceremony and ending with the Inaugural Gala.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 01, 2023
Doomsday Theorist Says World Will Blow Up Soon; Will Speak In Cheyenne In January If Earth Still Exists
Although he has very little, if any, support in the scientific community, a doomsday theorist from Colorado says the Earth will be devastated by a massive thermonuclear explosion very soon. He is scheduled to speak in Cheyenne on January 7 if the world hasn't exploded by then.
Leo WolfsonDecember 30, 2022
Former President Donald Trump To Appear On Sheridan Radio Show
Former President Donald Trump will appear on Sheridan talk radio host Jeff Wallack's program in early January. Wallack said he will ask Trump about election integrity and other issues.
Leo WolfsonDecember 30, 2022
Bill Would Allow Wyoming Communities To Establish Airport Taxing Districts
A bill drafted for the upcoming Wyoming legislative session would allow communities to create airport districts, which could then tax citizens to support themselves.
Leo WolfsonDecember 30, 2022
Legislation Would Close Wyoming Campaign Finance Loophole That Lets Fed PACs Not Report
A proposed bill for the Wyoming Legislature would close a loophole that currently allows federal PACs that contribute to state and local races to not file state campaign finance reports.
Leo WolfsonDecember 29, 2022
In New Book, Former Gov. Freudenthal Says Wyoming Individualism Is ‘Fiction’
In his new book The Paradox of Plenty, released last week, former Gov. Dave Freudenthal said Wyomings aspirational mantra of the Cowboy Ethic, defined by ruggedly independent, self-made, carry-your-own weight westerners, is somewhat a farce.
Leo WolfsonDecember 29, 2022
Plane Slides Off Runway At Rock Springs Airport After Encountering Black Ice Conditions
Icy conditions led a near-capacity United flight with nearly 50 people on board to slide off a runway while landing at the southwest Wyoming airport Tuesday night.
Leo WolfsonDecember 28, 2022
Watching Gov Ed Herschler On C-SPAN In 1985 Is Like Deja Vu; Same Issues, Same Conversations
Has anything changed in four decades? Although it's Wyoming Gov Ed Herschler speaking in a 1985 C-SPAN interview, the issues and the conversations seem to be pretty much the same as they are today.
Leo WolfsonDecember 28, 2022
EMTs Hit By Truck Honored With Motorcade By Carbon County Emergency Responders
A motorcade of emergency vehicles in Carbon County on Monday honored EMTs Tyeler Harris and Tiffany Gruetzmacher. Harris was killed and Gruetzmacher suffered serious injuries when a semi-truck hit them in a snowstorm as they were responding to a two-vehicle accident.
Leo WolfsonDecember 27, 2022
Casper’s Tom Browning Pitched At Highest Levels Of Baseball, Remained Humble Son Of Wyoming
The Cincinnati Reds' Tom Browning, the World Series champ who pitched the 12th perfect game in Major League Baseball history, is remembered by Wyoming friends and family as the same guy theyd known their whole lives.
Leo WolfsonDecember 26, 2022
A Gathering Of Faiths: Rabbi Celebrates Hanukkah With Cheyenne Unitarians
I am a very unusual rabbi, said Rabbi Moshe Halfon. I play drums, I dance with Nigerians, I meditate with Buddhists and Ive been with pagans.
Leo WolfsonDecember 23, 2022
Wyoming Highway Patrol Calls Snowstorm Unprecedented: 787 Calls, 196 Motorist Assists, 104 Crashes
A Wyoming Highway Patrol veteran says hes never seen anything like the perfect storm of winter that hit the Cowboy State on Wednesday, killing a first responder and causing near white-out conditions across the state.
Leo WolfsonDecember 22, 2022
Lummis: Hard-Working American Taxpayers Should Not Pay For Ukrainian War
Following the Ukrainian president's speech before a joint session of Congress, Sen. Cynthia Lummis said she appreciated his remarks but "hardworking taxpayers" should not "fit the bill" for the Ukrainian War.
Leo WolfsonDecember 22, 2022
As 80% Of Secretary Of State Executive Team Quit, Chuck Gray Finding Replacements
Deputy Secretary of State Karen Wheeler said after the primary election 12 of the office's 31 employees have left or are leaving, including four out of the five members of the executive team.
Leo WolfsonDecember 22, 2022
Lummis Says No To 4,155-Page, $1.7 Trillion Federal Spending Bill; “This Is Irresponsible”
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis voted against the 4,155-page $1.7 trillion federal spending bill stating that it was "irresponsible" for Congress to continue to spend at this level.
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2022
A Fixture For Nearly 40 Years, Deputy Secretary Of State Karen Wheeler Marks Final Days
Deputy Secretary of State Karen Wheeler began working in the secretary of state's office back in 1985 for Wyoming legend Thyra Thomson. At the end of the year, after working for seven administrations, she's stepping down.
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2022
Hageman Splits From Boebert And Gaetz, Backs McCarthy For US House Speaker
U.S. Congresswoman-elect Harriet Hageman has sided with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene in supporting Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy for Speaker of the House. In doing so, she breaks with Rep. Lauren Boebert and Rep. Matt Gaetz.
Leo WolfsonDecember 20, 2022
Woman Who Built Socialist LGBTQ Commune In Laramie Calls It Quits, Selling Compound
The part-owner of a Socialist, LGBTQ commune in Laramie said the difficulty in finding consistent residents and a political environment hostile to Socialists, Communists, and LGBTQ communities has led to her group selling the property.
Leo WolfsonDecember 20, 2022
Cheney Casts First Vote To Bring Criminal Charges Against Former President Trump
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney cast the first vote to support bringing criminal charges against former President Donald Trump for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
Leo WolfsonDecember 19, 2022
Gordon Proposes $32 Million For Housing, Nutrition, Mental Health, Family Resources
The largest of Gordons new government projects includes $15 million for Wyoming Community Development to address unmet housing needs throughout the state.
Leo WolfsonDecember 18, 2022
Cheney Votes For Puerto Rico To Decide Statehood Despite Having Nearly 3 Times As Many Dems
Liz Cheney was one of just a few Republicans to support a bill on Thursday that would give Puerto Ricans the choice of whether they want to become a U.S. state. Democrats outnumber Republicans by nearly a 3-1 margin on the island.
Leo WolfsonDecember 16, 2022
Campbell County Commissioner Wants Library Board Members Booted
Campbell County Commissioner Rusty Bell said library board members Sage Bear and Chelsie Collier are part of an anti-LGBTQ group that is wreaking havoc and chaos in Gillette.
Leo WolfsonDecember 16, 2022
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon Bans TikTok On All State Owned Devices
Just hours after incoming Sec of State Chuck Gray announced he was banning TikTok from his office, Gov. Mark Gordon banned use of the video sharing app on all state-owned devices.
Leo WolfsonDecember 15, 2022
Despite Democrat Control Of Senate, Lummis Predicts More Conservative Legislation
Although Sen. Lummis doesnt expect Sen. Krysten Sinema, I-Arizona, to change her politics after departing from the Democratic Party last week, she does expect more centrist legislation to come out of the Senate than in the previous session.
Leo WolfsonDecember 15, 2022
Wyoming Leadership Predict Water Fights, Tough Economic Times, Tax Reform Battles
The incoming leaders of the Wyoming Senate and House say the battle over water is real and it's coming. Plus, the economic surplus isn't going to last. And then there's Medicaid expansion...
Leo WolfsonDecember 15, 2022
Wyo Sec Of State Defends Email Asking GOP Members For Lawsuit Money Because Not From Official Email
Interim Sec of State Karl Allred on Wednesday defended his email asking for money to Wyoming GOP Central Committee members because it was sent from his personal email address. A former Sec of State says it's "bad optics."
Leo WolfsonDecember 14, 2022
Wyoming Legislators Asked To Triple Spending For Schools; Another $148 Million Requested
With the state flush with higher-than-budgeted-for revenues and inflation adding millions to construction projects the Wyoming Legislatures Appropriations Committee is being asked to more than triple spending.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2022
Wyoming LGBTQ Pioneer To Leave Legislature After 13 Years; Retiring From UW As Well
Cathy Connolly, Wyoming's first openly gay legislator and openly gay faculty member at the University of Wyoming, is leaving both institutions at the end of the year.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2022
Gordon: Wyoming Needs Millions To Address Evolving Cyberattack Threat
A cybersecurity threats grow more common and sophisticated, Gov. Mark Gordon wants more than $7 million to beef up its cyber defenses, including a dedicated law enforcement officer in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2022
Wyoming GOP Committeewoman Charged With Reckless Endangerment While Hunting
Nina Webber, the Wyoming Republican Committeewoman and former House candidate, has been charged with reckless endangerment while hunting. Two people said they were forced to seek cover outside of their home as bullets from Webber, allegedly rained down on them.
Leo WolfsonDecember 12, 2022
Lummis To Lead Caucus Of Western Senators
Sen. Lummis will serve as chair of the Senate Western Caucus ,an organization that gathers Republican senators from states west of the Mississippi River to talk about Western issues and best advocate for the Western way of life.
Leo WolfsonDecember 11, 2022
Cheney’s Last Stand: Liz To Keep Target On Trump’s Back For Remainder Of Term
Cheneys office says that drafting and delivering the final report of the U.S. House Select Committee on the Jan. 6 Attack is the congresswomans main focus.
Leo WolfsonDecember 10, 2022
‘Guts’ Or ‘Long-Term Mistake’? Wyoming Republicans Discuss Lummis’ Same-Sex Vote
U.S. Sen. Lummis has riled some conservatives in the Cowboy State with her support of the Respect for Marriage Act. Others respect it. Former Sen. Al Simpson said "it showed guts."
Leo WolfsonDecember 09, 2022
Gordon Presents $354 Million Supplemental Budget, Calls It “Conservative And Bold”
Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday presented his $354 million supplemental budget, stating that Wyoming should invest revenue from recent oil and gas boom so state can support itself during more lean years in the future.
Leo WolfsonDecember 09, 2022
Hageman Selects Former Trump Aide From Kansas To Be Chief Of Staff
Incoming U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman has confirmed that Carly Miller, a former Trump aide from Kansas, will be her chief of staff. Miller was Hageman's campaign manager.
Leo WolfsonDecember 08, 2022
‘Not Voodoo’: Wyoming Expands Cloud Seeding Amid Prolonged Drought
Although some consider it voodoo, the state Legislature's Select Water Committee on Wednesday voted unanimously to continue to pay for a $2 million cloud seeding program in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonDecember 08, 2022
Misconduct Charges Against Bouchard Dropped; Vows Not To ‘Kiss Anybody’s Ring’
After being told that a legislative investigation of his alleged misconduct has been dropped, Sen. Anthony Bouchard told Cowboy State Daily that he represents the people who elected him and he's "not going to kiss anybody's ring."
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2022
To Increase Confidence In Elections, Legislator Says Every Ballot Should Be Made Public
State Sen. Cale Case wants a database set up where people can inspect every ballot cast in Wyoming elections. He said only the image of the person's ballot would be viewable, not the name or other identification.
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2022
Actually, Only One Committee Chair Signed Sen. Driskill’s Pre-Resignation Letter
Sen. Ogden Driskill on Tuesday said only one committee chair signed a pre-resignation letter that promises good conduct. He said others gave him verbal pledges promising to uphold proper decorum.
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2022
Cheney Slams McCarthy For Not Condemning Trump For Constitution Comments
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney continued her feud with Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-California, the likely next speaker of the U.S. House for not condemning former President Trump over his suggestion to "terminate" the Constitution.
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2022
Isolated Wyoming State Senator Dan Laursen Frustrated With No Committee Assignments
Of the 93 incoming members of the Wyoming Legislature only Dan Laursen wasn't appointed to a committee. The senate president-elect says it's because he's not a team player. A former legislator says it's because Laursen has burned all his bridges.
Leo WolfsonDecember 05, 2022
Bouchard Won’t Sign “Good Behavior Or Be Kicked Off Committee” Letter
Senate President-elect Ogden Driskill has asked committee chairs to sign a letter promising to resign if they act in bad behavior in an attempt to bring decorum back to the body. He also asked controversial senator Anthony Bouchard to sign it but Bouchard said he won't.
Leo WolfsonDecember 03, 2022
Driskill Reappoints Bouchard, Snubs Laursen As Wyo Senate Committee Chairs Are Announced
State Senate president nominee Ogden Driskill announced the new committee chairs of the Wyoming Senate on Friday. He had them agree to a behavior pledge that can force them to resign if they act up.
Leo WolfsonDecember 02, 2022
Move To Subpoena Wyoming Attorney General Killed By Management Council
The Wyoming Legislatures Management Council on Thursday denied a request to compel Attorney General Bridget Hill to testify before the Agriculture Committee with a subpoena.
Leo WolfsonDecember 02, 2022
Analysis: Incoming Wyoming Legislature Grows Younger, More Christian
A Cowboy State Daily analysis of the incoming Wyoming Legislature shows that in addition to there being a slight increase in the number of female lawmakers, it will be a younger and more Christian-affiliated body.
Leo WolfsonDecember 01, 2022
Boner Subpoenas Attorney General Over Decision Made In State Lands Office
Because Attorney General Bridget Hill said she "wasn't interested" in speaking to the Legislature's Ag Committee, state Sen. Brian Boner has issued a subpoena for her to appear in a meeting in December or early January.
Leo WolfsonNovember 30, 2022
Lummis Votes Yes On Same-Sex Marriage Bill
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis was one of 11 Republican senators to vote Tuesday afternoon to pass federal same-sex marriage legislation, saying she and others have been vilified and despised by some that disagree with our beliefs.
Leo WolfsonNovember 30, 2022
No Decision Yet Over Lawsuit To Remove 100-Yards Distance Rule In Polling Places
The 10th Court of Appeals is still considering arguments in a lawsuit that will determine how close people can campaign around polling places. Plaintiffs believe they should be able to campaign and gather signatures much closer to polling places.
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2022
Wyoming State Rep. Chad Banks Chosen To Help Decorate The White House
Rep. Chad Banks, D-Rock Springs, spent 10 hours a day for three days working at the White House, a process in which the volunteers were not allowed to take photos documenting their progress.
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2022
Rex Rammell In Trouble Again; Accused Of Illegally Driving RV On Federal Land
Perennial political candidate Rex Rammell, who has had many brushes with the law in the past, has been cited for operating his giant RV in a prohibited area on federal land where vehicles are prohibited.
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2022
Wyoming Attorney General Says Park County Cannot Count Ballots By Hand
The Wyoming Attorney Generals office has determined that Park County doesnt have a right to allow a group of citizens to inspect and count ballots by hand.
Leo WolfsonNovember 28, 2022
Teton County Duo Saves Legendary Nora’s Fish Creek Inn From Developers
After decades of feeding people living in and traveling through Wilson, Wyoming, and being featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Noras Fish Creek Inn reopens with new owners who have vowed to keep the landmark going and protect the place from developers.
Leo WolfsonNovember 27, 2022
Legislation Could Give Wyoming Voters Final Say On Capping Property Tax Rates
Wyoming property valuations were up $7 billion this year. To deal with skyrocketing property taxes, the Revenue Committee approved an act that -- if passed by the Legislature -- would allow citizens to vote on capping property taxes.
Leo WolfsonNovember 24, 2022
Wyoming Republicans Lobbying Lummis To Change Stance On Same-Sex Marriage
The Wyoming House Freedom Caucus has joined in voicing its displeasure with U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis in her vote to codify same-sex marriage in federal law. Lummis has doubled down.
Leo WolfsonNovember 23, 2022
By The Numbers: Wyoming Voters Showed Up For The Primary But Stayed Home For The General
Voter turnout in August was the highest on record for a Wyoming primary election and the largest percentage of eligible voter turnout in a primary since 1994. As for the general, voters stayed home.
Leo WolfsonNovember 23, 2022
Wyoming Lawmakers Advance Eighth Medicaid Expansion Bill In Last Two Years
The Joint Revenue Committee voted 9-5 Tuesday to move forward with expanding Medicaid services to those eligible under the Social Securities Act -- an estimated 19,000 people in Wyoming, at a cost of $11 million a year.
Leo WolfsonNovember 23, 2022
Rep. Chip Neiman’s Stock Soars In Wyoming Republican Party
Rep. Chip Neiman, R-Hulett, made history Saturday when he became the first freshman legislator in recent memory nominated for a leadership position. Its a quick rise from nonpolitical rancher to House majority floor leader.
Leo WolfsonNovember 22, 2022
Wyoming Attorney Who Fought COVID Mandates Suspended For Abandoning Clients
Nick Beduhn, a Buffalo attorney who represented clients in a number of cases opposing COVID-19 mandates has been suspended by the Wyoming State Bar. Its Beduhns second suspension in five years.
Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2022
Neiman Beats Olsen As Wyoming Legislature Chooses Party Nominees For Leadership
In an extraordinary vote, a freshman legislator won a key leadership position on Saturday as Rep. Chip Neiman beat veteran legislator Jared Olsen for Majority Floor Leader.
Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2022
After Getting Denied $7 Million Grant, Rawlins Still Facing $20 Million Water Infrastructure Repair Bill
Since a catastrophic failure of its municipal water system in March, the city of Rawlins has faced boil orders, extreme restrictions and has raised water rates by 50%. A recent denial of $7 million in ARPA money another blow as the city struggles with $21 million price tag to fix it.
Leo WolfsonNovember 20, 2022
Drinking Wyoming: A Pre-Thanksgiving Yeast Feast With The Folks At Jackson Hole Still Works
Teton County's Jackson Hole Still Works is a small-scale craft operation thats pure Wyoming, with some creativity and patience for good measure.
Leo WolfsonNovember 18, 2022
Teton County Republicans Outnumbered, But That Wasn’t Always So
Teton County wasnt always a Democratic oasis in a sea of Republican Red in Wyoming but it is now. And it doesn't appear to be shifting back any time soon.
Leo WolfsonNovember 18, 2022
Lummis Votes In Support Of Same-Sex Marriage Bill, Barrasso Votes Against
Saying that equality is enshrined in the Wyoming Constitution, U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis voted in support of a federal same-sex marriage bill. Sen. Barrasso voted against it stating that marriage is between a man and a woman.
Leo WolfsonNovember 17, 2022
Inside The Blue Bubble: What Teton County Residents Think Of The Rest Of Wyoming
One Jackson resident said the longer people live in Jackson, the more they assimilate to the state's culture but still think the rest of Wyoming as "a little backwards and a little po-dunk."
Leo WolfsonNovember 17, 2022
An Election Day Red Wave Or Red Ripple? Depends On Who You Ask
Former President Trump's deputy campaign manager, who was in Casper for the state GOP meeting over the weekend, said that any margin of victory was significant because "Nancy Pelosi was fired."
Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2022
Wyoming GOP Deployed 203 Volunteer “Poll Watchers” To Monitor Voters During Election
GOP Chair Frank Eathorne said the Wyoming Republican Party's effort to train and deploy 203 volunteers to watch over voters across the state during the general election was a "massive successful effort."
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2022
Liz Cheney Trolls Arizona’s Kari Lake On Election Loss
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney, who actively campaigned against Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake, trolled Lake on Monday night after she was declared the loser in the Arizona race.
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2022
Lummis Breaks From Trump, Says DeSantis Is New Leader Of Republican Party
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis on Monday said she viewed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, not former President Trump, is the leader of the Republican Party "whether he wants to be or not."
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2022
Feud Between State GOP & Laramie County Republican Party Escalates
Owing the Wyoming Republican Party more than $12,000 in unpaid membership dues, the state GOP said it will charge Laramie County party members $30 each to participate in future state party meetings.
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2022
Barrasso Wants Leadership Vote On Wednesday, Lummis Wants To Wait Until Georgia Runoff
U.S. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis dont agree on how they would like to see Senate Republicans move forward with deciding leadership for the next term. Barrasso is calling for the vote on Wednesday, Lummis wants to wait until Georgia is decided.
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2022
Wyoming GOP Wants Investigation of Gov. Gordon’s Ties To Bill Gates, George Soros, Warren Buffett
The Wyoming Republican Party on Saturday called for an investigation of Wyoming Gov Mark Gordon's alleged ties to billionaire financiers George Soros, Warren Buffet, and Bill Gates over the planned nuclear plant in Kemmerer.
Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2022
Wyoming House Gears Up For Battle Between ‘Establishment’ And ‘New Conservatives’
Days after the general election theres plenty of positioning going on among members in the Wyoming House of Representatives for leadership positions.
Leo WolfsonNovember 12, 2022
Cheney Sees Midterms As Victory For ‘Team Normal’
U.S. Rep Liz Cheney was pleased with the results of Tuesdays midterms, saying the red wave of former President Donald Trump-endorsed candidates promised by the far-right didnt happen.
Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2022
Rock Springs Dem Says Social Topics Like Transgender Issues Doomed Campaign
State Rep. Chad Banks, D-Rock Springs, said concerns about national-level issues such as transgender rights made a difference in his failed reelection bid Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2022
Sour Grapes: Losing Candidates In Wyoming Vent Frustration With Election Results
Sara Burlingame, a Democrat who lost a bid to reclaim her legislative seat, said some Democrats lost to "alt-right candidates who wouldn't know how to even read a bill, let alone engage it critically."
Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2022
Gordon’s Chief Of Staff Retires, State Sen. Drew Perkins To Take Job
Gov. Mark Gordon is replacing retiring Chief of Staff Buck McVeigh with Drew Perkins, a longtime state senator, from Casper.
Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2022
While Wyoming’s Red Sea Became Redder, Its Blue Island (Teton County) Got Bluer
Wyomings elections on Tuesday followed a decades-long national trend of political polarization: already conservative areas got more red and Teton County became even more blue.
Leo WolfsonNovember 10, 2022
By The Numbers, Wyoming Voters Show Less Interest In General Election
With many Republican races decided in the August primary, this years mid-term general election drew less interest from Cowboy State voters.
Leo WolfsonNovember 10, 2022
“Amendment A” Passes In Wyoming, Gives Local Govt’s Freedom To Invest Tax Money In Stocks
The Wyoming Association of Municipalities says the passage of Amendment A gives cities and counties more freedom to invest and realize greater returns with public money.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Pair Of Sweetwater County Incumbents Upset In General Election
Rep. Chad Banks' loss strips the Democratic Party of the last representation it had in Sweetwater County, historically a bastion for the party in the state.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Republican Jon Conrad Easily Fends Off Write-In, Democrat In House District 19
Republican Jon Conrad of Mountain View easily fended off a formidable write-in opponent and a Democrat in Tuesdays general election for House District 19 in southwestern Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Cheyenne Voters Elect Republican Stephan Pappas To Third Term In Senate District 7
State Sen. Stephan Pappas, R-Cheyenne, held off well-funded Democratic challenger Marcie Kindred on Tuesday night to win his third term in the Wyoming Senate.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Liz Storer Retains Teton County’s House District 23 Seat For Democrats
Teton County voters elected Democrat Liz Storer over Republican Paul Vogelheim for House District 23 on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Republican Tamara Trujillo Beats Former Dem Lawmaker Sara Burlingame In Cheyenne House Race
Republican Tamara Trujillos win inHouse District 44 over former legislator Sara Burlingame turns Cheyennes state legislative delegation all red.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
U.S. Sens. Barrasso, Lummis Congratulate Hageman On Congressional Win
U.S. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis on Tuesday said they look forward to working with Harriet Hageman as the newest member of Wyomings congressional delegation.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, Beats Write-In Candidate To Retain Senate District 1 Seat
State Sen. Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, now has a clear path to become Wyoming Senate president after winning re-election for the fourth time.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon Wins Second Term
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon will get a second term after winning re-election on Tuesday night.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Wyoming State Treasurer Curt Meier, Auditor Kristi Racines Win Re-Election
State Treasurer Curt Meier and State Auditor Kristi Racines won re-election on Tuesday night are being unopposed in general election.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Harriet Hageman Wins Congressional Race, Will Be Wyoming’s Next U.S. Representative
Republican Harriet Hageman is Wyoming's next U.S. Representative. She defeated Democrat Lynette Grey Bull on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Abortion, Election Fraud, And Economy Are Top Issues, Say Wyoming Voters
Voters casting their ballots at a Cheyenne polling place Tuesday said claims of fraud in the 2020 presidential election, abortion, and a horrible economy were their top issues for voting.
Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2022
Hageman Votes, Predicts Tuesday’s Midterm Election Is ‘Going To Be Big’ For Republicans
While exiting the polls after voting on Tuesday, congressional candidate Harriet Hageman predicted the expected "red wave" was going to be big.
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2022
Already The Reddest State, How Much Could Another ‘Red Wave’ Impact Wyoming?
Its likely a foregone conclusion that Republicans will gain seats in Congress, but will this trend do much to change voting in Wyoming, where a 90% Republican state Legislature is poised to increase that margin even more.
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2022
Arizona Gubernatorial Candidate Kari Lake Says Wyoming Will Help Pay For Border Wall
Arizona Republican gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake said Wyoming would be interested in helping pay to construct a border wall separating her state from Mexico.
Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2022
Cheney Endorses Another Democrat; Third In Less Than Three Weeks
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney endorsed her third Democrat in less than three weeks over the weekend, all running for Congress in other states.
Leo WolfsonNovember 07, 2022
100+MPH Winds Cause Mayhem And Chaos On Wyoming Highways
Wyoming highways were littered with wrecked semi-trucks on Saturday as 100 mph winds wreaked havoc in the Cowboy State. One gust blew a 4,000-pound trailer off the highway "like a tumbleweed."
Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2022
Pro-Choice Teton Republican Confused By State GOP Contribution He Says He Never Got – Or Wanted
Andrew Byron, a pro-choice Republican legislative candidate from Jackson, said a press release put out by the Wyoming GOP that said they gave him $2,000 is wrong. He said he never received the money and doesn't want it.
Leo WolfsonNovember 05, 2022
Daylight Saving Time: Wyoming Champion Of Killing Time Change Hopeful It Dies Next Year
Wyoming state Rep. Dan Laursen, who has led the charge for eliminating the semi-annual changing of clocks in Wyoming, hopes this weekend's time change is the last ever as Congress considers The Sunshine Protection Act, which kills the despised ritual.
Leo WolfsonNovember 05, 2022
Cheney Lashes Out At Marjorie Taylor Greene, Says She’s ‘Exactly What Putin Wants’
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney said America would have lost the Cold War if there were more Republicans like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Georgia, at that time.
Leo WolfsonNovember 04, 2022
Already With 90% Of The Wyoming Legislature, Republican Party Could Get More
The Wyoming Legislatures ratio of 90% Republicans to 10% Democrats represents the widest gap in the nation, and Tuesdays General Election could see the GOP further solidify its super-majority.
Leo WolfsonNovember 04, 2022
Rawlins Gets Denied For Critical Infrastructure Help; Saratoga Gets Nearly $1 Million For Water Project
Despite catastrophic water failure and facing $20 million in critical infrastructure improvements, a $7 million request from the city of Rawlins was declined. Saratoga, meanwhile, received nearly $1 million.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2022
State-Level Candidates Break Wyoming Records For Raising, Spending Money
The race for Jacksons House District 23 has shattered records for individual candidates, and together, Republican Paul Vogelheim and Democrat Liz Storer report raising more than $180,000.
Leo WolfsonNovember 03, 2022
Wyoming National Guard Details Spike In Sexual Assault Reports
Wyoming National Guard Maj. Gen. Gregory Porter told a legislative committee on Wednesday that the number of sexual assaults reported in the Guard more than doubled.
Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2022
Now Cheney Endorses Ohio Democrat Tim Ryan For U.S. Senate
Another day, another Democrat. U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney on Tuesday endorsed Ohio Democrat Tim Ryan for U.S. Senate over Republican candidate J.D. Vance.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2022
Wyoming GOP Loses Registered Voters In Lead Up To General Election
Although Wyoming is one of the most conservative states in the country, the Republican Party has lost 1,335 registered Republicans in the last month.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2022
Brent Bien Lost By 50,000 Votes To Mark Gordon But Volunteers Still Push Write-In Effort
Write-in gubernatorial candidate Brent Bien was overwhelmingly defeated by incumbent Gov. Mark Gordon in the primary losing by nearly 50,000 votes but that hasn't stopped volunteers from embarking on a write-in campaign.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2022
Trinity Teen Solutions, Wyoming Facility For Troubled Teens, Shuts Doors Despite Courtroom Win
A Wyoming ranch for troubled teens Trinity Teen Solutions which was accused of employing cruel punishments and subjecting residents to forced labor, has won a significant court ruling, and also has abruptly closed its doors.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2022
Harriet Hageman Endorses Michigan Opponent Of Dem Backed by Liz Cheney
After U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney backed a Democratic congresswoman in Michigan last week, Harriet Hageman backed her GOP opponent on Monday.
Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2022
Amendment A: Cities, Counties Could Get More Investment Freedom From Wyoming Voters
Amendment A would give Wyoming municipalities more leeway in making higher-risk investments if they choose. Proponents say they can manage their money better and realize greater returns, while opponents argue for less risk with public money.
Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2022
Wyoming HD 17 Race: Incumbent Chad Banks (D) and Republican J.T. Larson Differ Most On Taxes
State Rep. Chad Banks, D-Rock Springs, favors eliminating tax exemptions in Wyoming while his Republican opponent for House District 17 would take a different approach for a seat that hasnt had a Republican in it since 2012.
Leo WolfsonOctober 29, 2022
Cheney Promotes Dems in Michigan & Arizona But Won’t Even Call Wyoming’s Grey Bull Back
Although Liz Cheney has endorsed Rep. Elissa Slotkin, a Michigan Democrat, and is actively speaking out against other Republicans, she's ignoring Wyoming Democratic House candidate Lynette Grey Bull.
Leo WolfsonOctober 28, 2022
Hageman Blasts University For Monitoring Her Twitter Posts For “Toxicity”
Harriet Hageman said a North Dakota university's decision to monitor her Twitter account represents the "unholy triumvirate of academia, mainstream press, and Big Tech coming together to squelch free speech."
Leo WolfsonOctober 28, 2022
In New Campaign Ad, Liz Cheney Blasts Arizona Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Kari Lake
A day after formally endorsing a Democrat U.S. House member in Michigan, U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney released a television ad against two Arizona Republicans include gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake.
Leo WolfsonOctober 28, 2022
Federal Building In Cheyenne Named After First Woman To Vote In Wyoming And In America
A federal building in Cheyenne was named for Louisa Swain on Thursday. She was not only the first woman in Wyoming to cast a vote in 1870, but also the first woman in America.
Leo WolfsonOctober 28, 2022
CREG Report: Wyoming’s Coal, Oil and Gas Revenues Come In Much More Than Expected
Wyomings Consensus Revenue Estimating Group report for October shows state revenues exceeded Januarys predictions by hundreds of millions of dollars.
Leo WolfsonOctober 27, 2022
US Rep. Liz Cheney Endorses Michigan Democrat
UPDATED: U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney on Thursday morning has endorsed incumbent U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, a Michigan Democrat, who is running against a Republican who has questioned the results of the 2020 presidential election.
Leo WolfsonOctober 27, 2022
State Rep. Says House Freedom Caucus Plans Wyoming Political Takeover
Outgoing State Rep. Bill Fortner said Wyoming's House Freedom Caucus is planning a takeover of Wyoming politics and the effort is being headed by Rep. John Bear who he calls "nothing but a two-faced liar."
Leo WolfsonOctober 27, 2022
Lawmakers Approve Draft Legislation To Tighten Regs On Wyoming Gaming Industry
The Wyoming Legislatures Appropriations Committee passed draft legislation Wednesday that tightens licensure requirements for gaming companies in the Cowboy State as the industry continues to grow.
Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2022
Cody Superintendent Apologizes For Librarian’s ‘Racist’ Comments, But Not Librarian
A Cody School District librarian has faced rebuke but not apologized for comments she made to Cowboy State Daily calling people in her community pushing to remove two books from district schools racist.
Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2022
Wyoming’s Top Educator Says Pornography, Indoctrination Of Students A Crisis
In a show of force, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder was joined by a host of Republican state lawmakers to rally against sexually explicit materials found in many Wyoming public school libraries.
Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2022
Axes And Alcohol: Wyoming Lawmakers To Consider Creating New Class Of Liquor License
A proposal would make some major changes to Wyoming liquor license regulations, including allowing entertainment venues like ax throwing ranges the ability to serve alcohol.
Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2022
Cheney Won’t Vote For Hageman Or Gray, Talks Of Potential For New Third Party
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney said on "Meet The Press" on Sunday that she will not vote for Harriet Hageman nor Chuck Gray in Wyoming's general election.
Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2022
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Owner Draws Flack For Supporting Republicans
Jackson Hole Mountain Resorts owner has been criticized for supporting political candidates that hold opposing climate change views to many environmental groups.
Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2022
Crook County GOP Won’t Support Primary Winner Sen. Ogden Driskill; Leaders Back Write-In Candidate
The Crook County Republican Party has taken an official vote to not offer financial support or its endorsement support to Sen. Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, and instead will back the candidate voters didnt elect in the Aug. 16 primary.
Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2022
Cheney Spent Six Times More Per Vote ($255 vs $43) In Massive Losing Effort
Campaign finance reports show U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney spent an average of about $255 per vote in her landslide loss to challenger Harriet Hageman, who spent $43 per vote based on reported spending.
Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2022
Wyoming Nursing Shortage At Critical Level, Sparks Bidding War
Exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a worsening shortage of nurses across the Cowboy State and nationwide has prompted some extreme recruiting efforts, including huge case bonuses.
Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2022
Former Wyoming Gov. Matt Mead Praises Liz Cheney At Harvard Forum
Former Wyoming Gov. Matt Mead had high praise for outgoing Congresswoman Liz Cheney at a forum at Harvard Tuesday night. Mead said Cheney's concession speech was not a picture of defeat but rather a show of determination.
Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2022
Laramie Democrat Trey Sherwood Knows She Faces Uphill Battle For Reelection
State Rep. Trey Sherwood, D-Laramie, knows she has to campaign hard if she wants to get reelected against challenge from Laramie City Council member Bryan Shuster.
Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2022
Candidate Says Dems Used Deceased Wife As ‘Political Fodder’ In Campaign Finance Complaint
One supporter of candidate Paul Vogelheim said it was "reprehensible" of the Liz Storer campaign to use Vogelheim's deceased wife as a "political play for some big headline."
Leo WolfsonOctober 19, 2022
Wyoming Lawmakers Move Forward With Ranked Choice Voting
The Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee has approved a draft bill allowing municipalities to try out ranked choice elections for nonpartisan races through a pilot test program.
Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2022
Another Wyoming County GOP Snubs Primary Winner In Favor Of Write-In
Sen. Ogden Driskill, one of the most senior members of the Legislature, called foul on the Crook County GOP and its chairman, who's actively working on campaign of write-in opponent.
Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2022
Wyoming Hero: College Wrestler Jumps On Grizzly To Save Friend
I could hear when his teeth would hit my skull, Kendall Cummings told Cowboy State Daily on Monday. Kendall tried to physically pull a grizzly off his teammate Brady Lowry on Saturday and paid dearly for it. Lowry says his friend saved his life.
Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2022
Bill Would Strip Wyoming Political Parties Of Role In Filling Vacancies
Wyoming lawmakers have passed a draft bill that would take away power from political parties to appoint finalists for vacant political positions throughout the state.
Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2022
Legislature Approves Draft Bill That Could Give Wind And Solar Companies A Break On Taxes
The Wyoming Legislature has approved draft legislation that could give wind and solar companies a break on their taxes.
Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2022
Trying To Turn Red Seat Blue, Democrat Targets GOP Incumbent Through Interstate Billboards
Trying to unseat a Republican incumbent in the reddest state in the nation isn't easy. But Democrat Merav Ben-David is attempting the feat with creative billboards lined up on Interstate 80 through Laramie.
Leo WolfsonOctober 14, 2022
Wyoming Elections Committee Meeting Gets Heated; Citizens Call For Paper Ballots
Discussion about federally certifying Wyomings election equipment Friday morning grew heated when addressing the security of the states elections and voting machines.
Leo WolfsonOctober 14, 2022
Gubernatorial Debate: Candidate Would Prioritize Banning Ballot Drop Boxes
Libertarian Jared Baldes said Thursday night during a debate that he would consider supporting a ban on ballot drop boxes if elected governor.
Leo WolfsonOctober 14, 2022
Cheney Makes Motion To Subpoena Trump, Jan. 6 Committee Unanimously Approves
U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney put an exclamation mark on the Jan. 6 Committees work, issuing a motion at the conclusion of a televised Thursday hearing to subpoena former President Donald Trump.
Leo WolfsonOctober 13, 2022
Wyoming Legislator Considers Running As Write-In After Losing To Cousin In Primary
State Rep. John Romero-Martinez said he's strongly considering reentering the House District 44 race as a write-in candidate because of his cousin and primary opponent Tamara Trujillos stance on Medicaid expansion.
Leo WolfsonOctober 13, 2022
Cheyenne Teen Wins U.S. Tennis Association “Courage Award” For Win Over Cancer
Nearly a year removed from a devastating diagnosis, the U.S. Tennis Association of Wyoming recognized Atticus Spillman with the annual Courage Award for his win over cancer.
Leo WolfsonOctober 12, 2022
Bill To Strip Likely Secretary Of State Chuck Gray Of All Powers Dead
A proposal to strip likely incoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray of his powers in favor of a nonpartisan elections commission is likely dead, according to Rep. Dan Zwonitzer.
Leo WolfsonOctober 12, 2022
New Secretary Of State Allred Asks Wyoming County Clerks To Eliminate Ballot Boxes
Interim Secretary of State Karl Allred has sent a letter to the states 23 county clerks requesting they remove absentee ballot drop boxes.
Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2022
Uinta County GOP Endorses Write-In Over Primary Winner
The GOP party in Uinta County has broken with party tradition to support a candidate its leaders prefer over their countys Republican primary winner.
Leo WolfsonOctober 10, 2022
Wyoming Democratic Legislator Upset With Allred Secretary of State Appointment
State Rep. Mike Yin, D-Jackson, said comments Karl Allred made shortly before his appointment as interim Secretary of State should have disqualified him from being considered for the role.
Leo WolfsonOctober 05, 2022
Colorado Attorney Submits Second Request To Investigate Hageman
The Wyoming State Bar denied Colorado attorney Darby Hoggatts first request to investigate Harriet Hageman, so hes asking again.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2022
First Army Ranger To Return To Battle With Prosthetic Limb To Speak In Casper
Master Sgt. Joseph Kapacziewski, a Special Operations member of the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, was deployed 11 times in Afghanistan and Iraq, six of which were in Afghanistan with his artificial limb.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2022
Feds Threaten To Pull More Than $9 Million In Special Education Funding From Wyoming
A spending mistake made by the Wyoming Department of Education means the federal government may revoke more than $9 million grant money from Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2022
Wyoming Attorneys Send Second Letter To Hageman Condemning Her For Election Denials
More than 50 Wyoming attorneys have issued a second letter to Harriet Hageman asking her to accept the rulings made by more than 60 courts that the 2020 election was sound, whether she likes it or not.
Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2022
Wyoming State Bar Declines To Investigate, Disbar Hageman
A complaint filed this summer against U.S. Congress candidate Harriet Hageman with the Wyoming State Bar was centered around comments she made about the 2020 election.
Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2022
Infighting Cuts Into Wyoming GOP Dominance In Raising Money
The financial statements belonging to Wyomings Democratic and Republican parties are surprisingly competitive entering the general election.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 30, 2022