Politics and Government Reporter

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.

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Former Wyoming congresswoman Barbara Cubin and the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center.

Delegation Wants To Name Casper Trails Center For Former House Rep. Barbara Cubin

Wyoming’s congressional delegation want to honor the political legacy of Barbara Cubin, the state’s second-longest serving U.S. House rep. They’ve introduced a bill to name the Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper for her.

Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2024

A photo taken from U.S. Capitol Police body cam video shows a man, identified by the FBI as Douglas Harrington of Wyoming, assaulting an officer with a flagpole.

Wyoming Man Gets 3 Years In Prison For Swinging Flagpole At Police On Jan. 6

Bedford, Wyoming, resident Douglas Harrington was sentenced to three years in prison Monday for assaulting police with a flagpole during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol Riot. It’s the harshest sentence so far for a Wyoming resident related to Jan. 6.

Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2024

Barrasso: Let's Crank Up The Fossil Fuels And Boot The Illegal Immigrants

John Barrasso told Fox News on Sunday he's 100% behind President-elect Trump’s promise for mass deportations of illegal immigrants. He also said a new Trump administration could bolster Wyoming’s energy industries.

Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2024

The Sheridan Broncs walk out on War Memorial Field before their 4A championship game Nov. 16, 2024.

43-Game Win Streak And 31 Wyoming Football Titles, Nobody Beats The Sheridan Broncs

The Sheridan High School football team just won its fourth straight Wyoming state championship, the program’s 31st overall. Also riding a state record 43-game winning streak, the program is proving nobody busts these Broncs.

Leo WolfsonNovember 23, 2024

Left, state Sen. Bo Biteman, R-Sheridan County, has been nominated by the Senate Republican Caucus for Senate president for the 2025 session. Right, state Rep. Chip Neiman, R-Hulett, has been nominated for House speaker for the 2025 session.

Bo Biteman Named Wyoming Senate President, Chip Neiman Is New House Speaker

The Wyoming Senate and House on Saturday elected their leaders for the upcoming 2025 legislative session. Sen. Bo Biteman will be the new Senate president, while Rep. Chip Neiman will be House speaker.

Leo WolfsonNovember 23, 2024

Bondurant Gravel Mine Expansion Has Neighbors In Uproar

A proposed gravel pit expansion in Bondurant, Wyoming, has many neighbors in an uproar. They’re concerned about the noise it could create and impacts to wildlife and nearby streams.

Leo WolfsonNovember 22, 2024

Robert F. Kenney Jr. and President-elect Donald Trump.

Barrasso Says RFK Will Bring A Much-Needed Shakeup To FDA

John Barrasso, Wyoming's senior U.S. senator and a physician, said he believes Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will bring a much-needed shakeup to the federal Food and Drug Administration, if his nomination is approved.

Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2024

The Office of State Lands and Investments is fueding with ranchers near a 4,800-parcel of state-owned land it leases for grazing. The land isn't fenced, and it wants Crook County Sheriff Jeff Hodge to issue trespassing tickets to ranchers whose cattle wander onto the parcel, but the sheriff has refused.

Sheriff Refuses State Of Wyoming Request To Ticket Ranchers For Wayward Cattle

The state of Wyoming wants the Crook County Sheriff to ticket ranchers for trespassing when their cows wander onto unfenced state-owned leased grazing lands. But the sheriff has refused, saying “that’s not a solution to the problem, nor is it right.”

Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2024

Wyoming Legislators To Bring Back Property Tax Bill Governor Vetoed

The Wyoming legislators advanced a property tax bill this week that Gov. Mark Gordon already vetoed earlier this year. If passed, the law would cut property taxes by 25% for single-family homes valued at $2 million or less.

Leo WolfsonNovember 20, 2024

Pro-Life Legislators Say Fight Not Over As Wyoming Abortion Pill Ban Struck Down

After Wyoming’s first-in-the-nation ban of abortion pills, pro-life legislators say their fight isn’t over. They may put it to voters to decide if abortion is “health care.”

Leo WolfsonNovember 20, 2024

Noncitizen drivers license sample 11 19 24 v2

Legislature Considering Non-Citizen Labels On State-Issued IDs

Wyoming IDs may get a complete redesign in the near future that would include a special designation identifying people who aren’t U.S. citizens on the state-issued cards.

Leo WolfsonNovember 19, 2024

Eric Wright, left, has been picked by President-elect Donald Trump as his next secretary of the Interior. Wyoming's coal industry is bullish on the change, hopeful for a reversal of federal fossil fuels policy.

Wyo. Mining Group Says Trump’s Energy Secretary Could Mean “180-Degree” Turn For Coal

The head of the Wyoming Mining Association says Trump’s nominee for energy secretary could roll back Biden regulations and reinvigorate the coal industry. He hopes to see “a 180-degree turn” for federal fossil fuels policy.

Leo WolfsonNovember 19, 2024

Other Authors

Sheridan County Elections Supervisor Stunned By Surprise Post-Election Firing

After helping oversee what he calls a “very successful” general election, Sheridan County’s election supervisor was suddenly fired last week. “I never saw it coming,” James Temple said.

Leo WolfsonNovember 18, 2024

Laramie County GOP Chairman Taft Love speaks against Lee at Saturday's state party meeting in Big Piney.

Wyoming Republicans Censure Laramie County Clerk Again, Call For Resignation

The Wyoming Republican Party censured Laramie County Clerk Debra Lee for a second time at its meeting Saturday and asked for her resignation. If she doesn’t resign, the party will request Gov. Mark Gordon remove her.

Leo WolfsonNovember 18, 2024

Brent Bien announced Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, that he's running for Wyoming governor in the 2026 election.

Republican Brent Bien First To Announce Campaign For Wyoming Governor In 2026

Cody Republican Brent Bien told Cowboy State Daily on Saturday at the Wyoming Republican Party Central Committee meeting in Big Piney that he’s running for governor in 2026. He also ran for governor in 2022 but lost to Mark Gordon in the primary.

Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2024

A truck plowed into the side of this brick house on Central Avenue on Oct. 11. The homeowners have now spent more than a month dealing with a huge hole in their house and at least $30,000 in damages.

What To Do After A Truck Plows Into Your House

A Cheyenne couple is finding out how to rebuild their home after a truck crashed into it during a freak accident. For the first week after the accident, parts of the house kept caving in. Now that it's stabilized, rebuilding has begun.

Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump and Adobe Town in southwest Wyoming.

Trump And Republican Congress Could Throw Out Controversial Rock Springs Plan

With Trump returning to the White House and Republicans taking over the Senate and House, the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs Resource Management Plan could get derailed. It could get killed outright.

Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2024

Former President Donald Trump and former U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney.

Arizona AG Ends Investigation Into Trump's "War Hawk" Comments About Liz Cheney

The Arizona attorney general has closed an investigation into Donald Trump’s controversial comments about Liz Cheney being a "war hawk." Her investigation showed there was “no reasonable likelihood that we could obtain a conviction for Trump’s statements.”

Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump has chosen U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Florida, to be his next attorney general.

Barrasso And Lummis Say Matt Gaetz Will Be Treated Fairly

Wyoming Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis both said U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz will be treated fairly while he is being considered for the position of Attorney General. Neither, however, endorsed his selection outright.

Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2024

The Elk Fire burned nearly 100,000 acres across the eastern face of the Bighorn Mountains in northern Wyoming. It was one of the devastating wildfires across the state this season that burned 850,000 acres and depleted the state's two-year wildfire fund in a matter of months.

Gordon Unveils $692 Million Supplemental Budget — One-Third For Wildfires

Gov. Mark Gordon unveiled his $692 million proposed supplemental budget Thursday, a plan he said promotes fiscal conservatism and sets Wyoming up for a strong future. Nearly one-third of that is earmarked for fighting wildfires.

Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2024

From left, state Reps. Trey Sherwood, John Bear and Senate President Ogden Driskill debate tax relief and their visions for Wyoming’s future Thursday in Laramie at the Wyoming Business Alliance’s Governor Business Forum.

Legislative Leaders Debate Tax Relief, Visions For Wyoming’s Future

It was a meeting of old vs. new Thursday as incoming and outgoing Wyoming legislative leaders were on stage together. Senate President Ogden Driskill and Reps. John Bear and Trey Sherwood debated tax relief and their visions for Wyoming’s future.

Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck Gray, left, and Gov. Mark Gordon.

Chuck Gray Says Animosity Toward Mark Gordon Not Personal

Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Thursday said his longstanding feud with Gov. Mark Gordon is nothing personal. He says it dates back to the governor’s vetoing one of his bills five years ago and a series of actions since then that he disagrees with.

Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, arrives Wendesday for the Senate leadership vote. He was elected Senate whip, the No. 2 position in the chamber.

It’s Official — Barrasso Elected To No. 2 Leadership Role In U.S. Senate

Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso was elected Senate whip on Wednesday, the No. 2 leadership position in the U.S. Senate.

Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck Gray at the Wyoming State Canvassing Board Meeting to certify the results of the 2024 election at the Wyoming Capitol Auditorium in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on Nov. 13, 2024.

Canvassing Board Certifies Wyoming Election Despite Weston County Miscount

A miscount in Weston County during last week’s general election had the Wyoming Canvassing Board considering Wednesday to not certify the election. The results were certified despite the controversy.

Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2024

Powell Man Who Sent Vulgar Email To State Legislator Elected To City Council

Troy Bray became a political pariah around Wyoming in 2021 when he sent a vulgar email to a state legislator urging her to kill herself. Last week, he was elected to Powell City Council.

Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2024

State Rep. Chip Neiman, R-Hulett, and state Sen. Larry Hicks, R-Baggs.

Who’s Going To Lead The Wyoming Legislature? Lawmakers Lobby For Support

A clearer vision of what the leadership for the upcoming 68th Wyoming Legislature will look like is starting to emerge as legislators lobby for support. It’s also possible Democrats will be held off a few critical committees.

Leo WolfsonNovember 12, 2024

Lummis Uncommitted For Senate Majority Leader, Calls Report She's Backing Thune "Fake News"

With the U.S. Senate leadership elections coming up Wednesday, Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis says she’s uncommitted on who she’ll support for majority leader. She says a report that she's backing John Thune is "fake news."

Leo WolfsonNovember 12, 2024

Luke Talich of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish returns an interception for a touchdown against the Florida State Seminoles during the second half at Notre Dame Stadium on Nov. 9, 2024, in South Bend, Indiana.

Wyoming Walk-On Scores On Pick-Six For No. 8-Ranked Notre Dame Football

A former Wyoming high school standout football player made national highlight reels Saturday. Cody’s Luke Talich, a walk-on for No. 8-ranked Notre Dame, returned an interception for a touchdown.

Leo WolfsonNovember 12, 2024

Weston County Election Miscount Has Locals, and Chuck Gray, Irate

Weston County officials are investigating how more than 1,100 votes were not counted in a state House race on Election Day. When Chuck Gray noticed the error, he called the Weston County sheriff and asked him to locate the county clerk, which he did at home.

Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2024

Conditions were snowy and deep in Leo Wolfson’s first day of the year on skis in the backcountry.

Back On Skis And It's Not Even Thanksgiving

The snowstorms that hit the Rocky Mountains last week produced some rare early November skiing -- if you are willing to work for it. Cowboy State Daily’s Leo Wolfson went backcountry skiing in northern Colorado on Saturday and said the conditions were ideal.

Leo WolfsonNovember 11, 2024

Pilots Sam Sutton, from left, Cory May, Alton Lusk and Mark Jay provided hurricane relief for 12 straight days in western North Carolina last month.

Wyoming Man Donated Black Hawk Chopper, Staff To Help With Hurricane Helene Disaster

Wheatland resident Charles Hoskinson donated his Black Hawk helicopter and four pilots to provide relief and resources to people in North Carolina devastated by Hurricane Helene. He said they met no other volunteer crew that had traveled as far away as Wyoming to help.

Leo WolfsonNovember 10, 2024

The New York Times reports that U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyoming, is being considered by President-elect Donald Trump for secretary of the Interior.

NYTimes Reports Lummis Being Considered To Be Next Secretary Of Interior

Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis is being considered to be the next head of the U.S. Department of the Interior in President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, The New York Times reported Friday.

Leo WolfsonNovember 09, 2024

File photo: Officer posts eviction notice

Bill Advances To Make Getting Rid Of Squatters In Wyoming Easier

Legislators advanced a bill Thursday to make getting rid of squatters in Wyoming easier. Among other things, it gives local law enforcement more authority to remove squatters for property owners.

Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2024

Public Will Get Instant Vote Tallies Starting Next Wyoming Legislative Session

The Wyoming’s Legislature’s Management Council unanimously passed a proposal Thursday that will give the public an electronic scorecard of how legislators vote in real time starting in the 2025 session.

Leo WolfsonNovember 08, 2024

The Kelly Parcel is 640 acres of pristine land adjacent to Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.

On 3-2 Vote, Wyoming Officials OK $100M Kelly Parcel Sale To Grand Teton Park

On a 3-2 vote, the State Board of Land Commissioners approved a conditional $100 million sale of the controversial Kelly Parcel to Grand Teton National Park. The money may be used to buy mineral-rich federal land in the Powder River Basin.

Leo WolfsonNovember 07, 2024

Donald Trump points to supporters with former first lady Melania Trump during an election night event at the Palm Beach Convention Center on Nov. 6, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Wyoming Swings Farther To The Political Right In Presidential Election

As a whole, Wyoming showed more support for former President Donald Trump than it did in 2020. In a few Wyoming precincts, support for Trump was nearly unanimous.

Leo WolfsonNovember 07, 2024

Voters at the Storey Gym in Cheyenne on primary day, Aug. 20, 2024.

Wyoming Election Shows Spending Big Doesn't Always Pay Off

For the most part, those who spent more in Tuesday’s general election in Wyoming were mostly successful — but not always.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Voting at the Storey Gym in Cheyenne on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024.

Amendment A Passes To Separate Residential Property Taxes In Wyoming

A constitutional amendment to move residential property taxes into a separate class of taxation in Wyoming passed on Tuesday night.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Gary Brown Holds On To Beat Democratic Challenger For Cheyenne’s HD 41

Cheyenne resident Gary Brown has won the election for House District 41, holding off Democratic challenger Jen Solis.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Political Newcomer Jacob Wasserburger Beats Burglingame To Win HD 11

Republican Jacob Wasserburger beat LGBTQ advocate and former state legislator Sara Burlingame for House District 11 in Cheyenne in Tuesday’s general election.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Donald Trump prepares to speak to his supporters in West Palm Beach, Fla., holding a dominating position to be reelected president of the United States.

Trump Crushes Kamala 71% To 25% In Wyoming, Largest Margin In Nation

Former President Donald Trump coasted to another landslide victory in Wyoming, crushing Kamala 71% to 25%. It’s also the largest margin of victory for Trump in the nation.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

House District 60: Freedom Caucus Gains Seat With Brady Win

Green River Republican Marlene Brady won her bid for House District 60 on Tuesday night, beating Democratic challenger Carmen Whitehead by 1,531 votes.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Senate District 12: Incumbent Republican Kolb Gets Comfortable Win

State Sen. John Kolb, R-Rock Springs, easily held on to his seat Tuesday night, beating Democratic challenger and former state legislator Kenilynn Zanetti by 2,486 votes.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Senate District 8: Olsen Will Return To Legislature With Win

State Rep. Jared Olsen, R-Cheyenne, beat Democratic challenger Marguerite Herman by a sizeable margin Tuesday night.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Barrasso Wins Reelection To Fourth Term In U.S. Senate

Cowboy State Daily is reporting Wyoming U.S. Sen. John Barrasso has been reelected to a fourth term in office Tuesday.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Hageman Wins Reelection For Second Term In Congress

Cowboy State Daily is reporting Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman has won her reelection bid for a second term as Wyoming’s only U.S. House representative.

Leo WolfsonNovember 06, 2024

Wyoming Expects $122 Million Surplus Behind Surge In Oil And Gas Production

The latest CREG report released last week shows Wyoming can expect a $122 million surplus behind a surge in oil and gas production. But coal, once the state’s cash cow, continues to decline.

Leo WolfsonNovember 05, 2024

The line for early voting stretches around the block at the Laramie County Clerk's Office in Cheyenne on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, the day before the general election.

44% Of Wyoming Registered Voters Have Already Cast Ballots

A huge voting period came to a close Monday in Wyoming with 44% of registered voters having already cast ballots. That translates to 112,824 people had voted statewide -- just over 4,000 votes per day.

Leo WolfsonNovember 05, 2024

Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder, left, and Gov. Mark Gordon.

Degenfelder Calls Gordon’s Move To Sell Kelly Parcel 'Backroom Maneuvering’

Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder on Monday criticized Gov. Mark Gordon’s push to sell the controversial Kelly Parcel to Grand Teton National Park for $100 million. She called the move “backroom maneuvering.”

Leo WolfsonNovember 04, 2024

State Rep. Jon Conrad, R-Mountain View, lost in the Republican primary, so is seeking reelection as a write-in candidate.

History Shows Write-In Candidates Almost Never Win In Wyoming, So Why Run?

Write-in campaigns have a notoriously low chance of succeeding, but there are a few write-in candidates running across Wyoming this November. Why run? They believe it’s the right thing to do.

Leo WolfsonNovember 04, 2024

Former President Donald Trump rallies in Casper in 2022 in support of Harriet Hageman. New polls show both remain as popular as ever with Wyoming voters days before the Nov. 5, 2024, general election.

Polls Say Trump Will Win Big In Wyoming; Barrasso & Hageman As Popular As Ever

No surprises at all in two Wyoming polls released on Friday. Former President Trump is expected to crush Kamala Harris as he remains as popular as ever in Wyoming. Both Barrasso and Hageman have sky-high numbers too and should win easily on Tuesday.

Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2024

Sundance Wick grew up in Gillette and played basketball for Campbell County High School. Now he has his "dream job" as the first Wyoming-born head men's basketball coach for the University of Wyoming in 50 years.

Sundance Wicks Is First Wyoming-Born UW Men’s Basketball Coach In 50 Years

Gillette native Sundance Wicks is the first Wyoming native to be the head coach of the University of Wyoming men's basketball team in 50 years. The Wicks era officially begins Monday when the Cowboys host Concordia University-St. Paul at 7:30 p.m.

Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2024

The Kelly parcel is 640 pristine acres of public land adjacent to Grand Teton National Park.

Recommendation Is For Wyoming To Sell Kelly Parcel To Feds For $100 Million

Wyoming’s top elected officials will decide Thursday whether to sell the Kelly Parcel to Grand Teton National Park. The State Land and Investment Board recommended Friday the state sell the pristine 640 acres to the park for $100 million.

Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2024

Former President Donald Trump, left, talks with conservative host Tucker Carlson, right, on Thursday. He reiterated his criticism of Liz Cheney during their interview.

Trump Says Media Misreports Cheney War Hawk Comment As Personal Threat

Former President Donald Trump called Liz Cheney a "radical war hawk" on Thursday and said she would “understand how it feels” to be at war if she had a gun pointed at her. The national media has exploded, calling the remark a personal threat, which Trump denies.

Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2024

Rock Springs Senator Accuses Former Legislator Opponent Of Pushing A Kamala Agenda

Republican incumbent Wyoming state Sen. John Kolb is being challenged by a former legislator for his seat, Democrat Kenilynn Zanetti. He says a vote for her is the same as voting for Kamala Harris, which she says isn’t true.

Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2024

Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray, left, and Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold.

Chuck Gray Bashes Colorado Counterpart For Releasing Voting Machine Passwords

Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray said he’s not surprised the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office made public a spreadsheet that included passwords to access voting machines. It's an example of her "left-wing radicalism," he said.

Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2024

Homes in a Cheyenne residential neighborhood.

Wyoming Realtors Have Spent Nearly $550,000 To Pass Property Tax Amendment

The campaign arm of the Wyoming Realtors Association has spent nearly $550,000 to convince Wyoming voters pass Amendment A on Tuesday. The measure would create a fourth class of taxation for residential properties.

Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon, left, and Secretary of State Chuck Gray.

Wyoming Cheers Supreme Court Ruling To Remove Noncitizens From Voter Rolls

Wyoming’s top elected officials are cheering a Wednesday ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court allowing the removal of noncitizens from voter rolls. Wyoming was one of 26 states that supported Virginia’s case in the high court.

Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2024

Adobe Town in southwest Wyoming is among the 18 million acres the BLM manages in the Cowboy State. Rep. Harriet Hageman says Wyoming can manage the land it it's own borders better.

Does Utah’s Petiton To Get Control Of Federal Lands Stand A Chance? Hageman Hopes So

Now that Utah is petitioning the U.S. Supreme Court to gain control of federal lands, Wyoming and other Western states are watching closely. Does it have a chance? Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman hopes so.

Leo WolfsonOctober 30, 2024

Wyoming Ski Areas Buck Industry With Independent Owners, Less Crowding

Across the U.S. West, huge companies are gobbling up ski resorts, which has resulted in crowded slopes under corporate management. Wyoming is bucking that industry trend with independent ownership and less crowding.

Leo WolfsonOctober 30, 2024

This 150-megawatt solar farm along the South Greeley Highway south of Cheyenne is owned by Atlanta-based Southern Co. and is close to supplying Black Hills Energy with power. It's also in the middle of Wyoming's Hail Alley.

Legislature Won’t Restrict Utilities Condemning Land For Green Energy Projects

A committee of the Wyoming Legislature has rejected two bills that would have restricted the use of eminent domain to acquire land for carbon capture, wind and solar projects.

Leo WolfsonOctober 29, 2024

State Rep. John Bear, R-Gillette, left, and state Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Cheyenne.

Legislators Fight Over Property Tax Relief Ahead Of Next Week’s Election

Legislators are fighting over a constitutional amendment that could lower property taxes for homeowners in Wyoming. Some argue Amendment A on next week’s ballot also opens the door for tax increases, if passed.

Leo WolfsonOctober 29, 2024

First-year University of Wyoming head football coach Jay Sawvel.

UW Football Coach Sawvel Reprimanded For Calling Referees Horsesh*t

University of Wyoming football coach Jay Sawvel was reprimanded Sunday after calling the referees officiating UW games this season horsesh*t. He also called his coaching horsesh*t in describing his 1 - 7 start.

Leo WolfsonOctober 28, 2024

Wyoming state Reps. Cody Wylie, left, and J.T. Larson, both Rock Springs Republicans, are suing over election mailers they claim are deliberately false and misleading.

Freedom Caucus Wants Lawsuit Over Misleading Political Mailers Thrown Out

The campaign arm of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus on Friday filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against it by two state legislators. They accuse the group of sending out deliberately false and misleading mailers and text messages.

Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2024

The line for early voting at the Laramie County Clerk's Office in Cheyenne was out the door and onto the sidewalk on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024.

"Hot And Heavy" Early Voting Across Wyoming Is Smashing Primary Turnout So Far

Early voting leading up to the Nov. 5 general election has had huge turnouts all across Wyoming. In Cheyenne, the wait to vote can take up to 30 minutes with a line of voters out the door and down the street every day.

Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2024

Jeff McKearney, left, was a senior pastor at Cody Bible Church. Steven Werbelow, right, was a well-known taxidermist in hunter from Powell.

Park County Saddened By Deaths Of Well-Known Pastor, “Living Legend” Taxidermist

The deaths of two well-known Park County residents has saddened the communities of Cody and Powell. Cody Bible Church Pastor Jeff McKearney and Steven Werbelow of Powell, a “living legend” in the taxidermy industry, were found dead Wednesday in an RV.

Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2024

Grizzly 399 and her cub, Spirit. Photo is owned by Jorn Vangoidtsenhoven and may not be reproduced

Driver Who Killed Grizzly 399 Did Nothing Wrong, Sheriff’s Office Says

Contrary to public outcry from some to prosecute the driver who hit and killed Grizzly 399, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office says that’s not likely to happen. Its investigation shows the driver wasn’t speeding and did nothing wrong.

Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2024

Katie Talbott, state House chief clerk, speaks about electronic voting and possibility of displaying votes.

Legislature Advances Proposal To Show Live, Electronic Scoring Of Votes

A committee of the Wyoming Legislature advanced a proposal on Thursday that would allow the public to see a live electronic scorecard for each roll call vote taken during the session.

Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2024

Skull Creek Rim in Wyoming's Red Desert.

Hageman, Gordon And Legislators Want Federal Lands Turned Over To States

Rep. Harriet Hageman, Gov. Mark Gordon and 26 members of the Wyoming Legislature want federal lands turned over to states. They’ve all filed briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court this week supporting Utah in its lawsuit to liberate BLM lands.

Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2024

State Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, from left, and Reps. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, and Mike Yin, D-Jackson, vote on allowing press in the hallways of the House and Senate chambers at the Wyoming Capitol.

Legislature Backs Off Plan To Limit Press Access At Wyoming Capitol

A proposal to restrict press access to some areas of the Wyoming Capitol during the legislative session was scrapped Thursday. The original idea was intended to ensure privacy for lawmakers and prevent overcrowding of the halls.

Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2024

Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray supports proposed bills that would allow the state to dissolve businesses registered in wyoming that are owned by foreign adversaries of the United States.

Bill Would Give State Authority To Dissolve Businesses Owned By Foreign Adversaries

The state Legislature’s Corporations, Elections and Political Subdivisions Committee is taking aim at Wyoming businesses owned by foreign adversaries. A bill advanced Tuesday would give the state the authority to dissolve them.

Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2024

World Famous Grizzly 399 Dead After Hit By Vehicle

Grizzly 399, perhaps the most famous and popular bear in the world, was hit by a car and killed Tuesday night. She was 28. The bear’s identity was confirmed through ear tags and a microchip.

Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2024

The McDonald's location at 2535 E. Lincolnway in Cheyenne.

Wyoming Part Of Multi-State McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak, Quarter Pounders Pulled

Wyoming is one of at least 10 Western states where people eating McDonald’s Quarter Pounders have been infected with E. coli food poisoning. The cases, so far, involve residents of Natrona and Sweetwater counties.

Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2024

The Sheridan County Republican Party shared a post on its Facebook page featuring former President Donald Trump, a racial slur and a number of racial stereotypes. It was deleted after about 35 minutes.

Sheridan County GOP Shares, Then Deletes, Racist Post About Trump At McDonald’s

The Sheridan County Republican Party is taking some heat after it shared a racist post to its Facebook page featuring former President Donald Trump. The post was quickly deleted, and the party’s chairman says it crossed the line.

Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2024

The Weston County commissioners moved forward with a controversial effort on Tuesday to ignore the state Legislature and create their own districts. Only three of the five commissioners were in attendance.

Weston County Votes To Create Own Legislative Seats, Now Waits To Be Sued

Weston County commissioners voted Tuesday to fill legislative seats the county created. The county also expects to be sued over the vote and efforts to strongarm its own representatives onto the Wyoming Legislature.

Leo WolfsonOctober 22, 2024

Burlingame Wasserburger mailers 2 10 22 24

Cheyenne House Race: Candidates Say Opponents Way Out Of Touch With Voters

In a battle for Cheyenne's House District 11, both candidates are saying their opponent is out of touch with local voters. Jacob Wasserburger's mailer features his opponent with President Biden while Sara Burlingame's mailer shows her opponent shirtless wearing a top hat.

Leo WolfsonOctober 22, 2024

Laramie County bought the building at 2020 Carey Ave., known as the Wyoming Financial Center, in downtown Cheyenne for $5.5 million.

Laramie County Buys Wyoming’s Tallest Building To House Its Growing Government

In anticipation of future growth of local government because of an influx of population, Laramie County recently paid $5.5 million to buy the tallest building in Wyoming. The Wyoming Financial Center building is nine stories and 148 feet tall.

Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2024

State Rep. Karlee Provenza, left, and challenger Paul Crouch.

Controversial Laramie Democrat Karlee Provenza Seeks Third Term In House

State Rep. Karlee Provenza is one of the few Democrat fixtures in the Wyoming Legislature and isn’t shy about sharing her liberal views. That’s why her Republican opponent for House District 45 says she doesn’t represent her constituents.

Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2024

Opertions at the Spring Creek coal mine in Decker, Montana.

Hundreds Of Wyoming Coal Jobs Threatened By Federal Regulation, Legislator Says

A state legislator says the future of a coal mine that employs hundreds of Sheridan County people is threatened by proposed federal regulation. Cyrus Western is worried the feds will cut the Spring Creek mine’s available coal by half because of a proposed revision to an environmental impact statement.

Leo WolfsonOctober 20, 2024

Glen Chavez, left, of Trujillo’s Barber Shop cuts Reshaun Cann’s hair.

Number One Topic At Cheyenne Barbershops: Politics, Politics, Politics

Cheyenne barber Glen Chavez isn't shy about saying the current administration has turned the U.S. into a third world country. Other barbers, however, try to steer the conversation away from politics. But that's what customers want to talk about, they say.

Leo WolfsonOctober 19, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, and Democratic challenger Scott Morrow debate on Oct. 17, 2024.

Immigration, Trump Main Themes As Barrasso Debates Opponent In Their Only Debate

Wyoming Senator John Barrasso and his Democratic opponent Scott Morrow met in their only debate of the election season Thursday night. They sparred over immigration COVID mandates and Trump.

Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2024

Weston County Commissioners Don Taylor, from left, Nathan Todd, Ed Wagoner, Vera Huber and Garrett Borton. Taylor, Borton and Huber voted in favor of creating their own legislative seats, while Todd and Wagoner voted against.

Weston County Defies Legislature, Will Appoint Its Own House, Senate Seats

The Weston County Commission is moving forward with a plan to create its own Wyoming House and Senate seats in defiance of the Legislature. Commissioners will vote next week to appoint people to fill those seats.

Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2024

Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins, left, and challenger Rick Coppinger.

Challenger Calls Out Cheyenne Mayor For Keeping Massive Facebook Data Center Secret

Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins is being called out by his challenger in the Nov. 5 election for signing an NDA to keep the massive Meta (aka Facebook) data center secret.

Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2024

The 1,500-pound Chief Washakie will now be more prominently displayed at the Wyoming Capitol.

2,000-Pound Esther Morris, Chief Washakie Statues Moved To Final Spots In Capitol

Statues honoring Esther Hobart Morris and Chief Washakie at the Wyoming Capitol were moved Wednesday. Even moving them from one end of a hall to another, it’s not easy moving 2,000-pound works of art.

Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2024

Wellspring Wyoming Health Access Clinic in Casper.

Casper Anti-Abortion Protesters Want City Council To Stop Harassment

Nearly 20 people, including a state legislator, told the Casper City Council on Tuesday they're being harassed while protesting a local abortion clinic. They want to the city to do something about it.

Leo WolfsonOctober 16, 2024

State Reps. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, and Jon Conrad, R-Mountain View.

Freedom Caucus Chair Claims Legislator Misusing Logos In Write-In Campaign

The chairman of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus filed a complaint with the state Tuesday against another legislator. She claims Jon Conrad is misusing the logos of the Wyoming Legislature and Freedom Caucus in campaign messages.

Leo WolfsonOctober 16, 2024

A billboard campaigning for the Democratic presidential ticket has been put up just outside Thermopolis, Wyoming, along Highway 20.

Local GOP Chair Says Kamala Billboard On Wyoming’s Highway 20 Will Help Trump

A billboard endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris for president has gone up along Highway 20 just outside Thermopolis, Wyoming. The local GOP chair says putting it in the middle of Republican-dominated Wyoming will only help Trump.

Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2024

If passed, a new rule would bar press from the hallways around the Senate and House floor chambers in the Wyoming Capitol during the legislative session. That would mostly impact press photographers who use the hallways for access to capture images of the meetings.

Legislature Considers Limiting Press Access At Wyoming Capitol During Session

The Wyoming Legislature is considering a rule to restrict the access working press have to some areas of the state Capitol in Cheyenne. That includes hallways outside the Senate and House chambers traditionally used mostly by press photographers.

Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2024

Ross Schriftman, from left, and state Reps. Tamara Trujillo, R-Cheyenne, Ben Hornok, Sarah Penn, R-Fort Washakie, Jeanette Ward, R-Casper, and Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, protest outside the Wellspring clinic in 2023.

Casper Abortion Clinic, Protesters Both Claim The Other's Harassing Them

A Casper abortion clinic wants a Casper City Council member to stop protestors harassing its patients. But the pro-life demonstrators say they’re the ones being harassed by clinic employees.

Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2024

Former President Donald Trump, left, and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Pollster: Kamala Should Be Worried As Her Poll Numbers Continue To Slide

A national political pollster, who has done polling in Wyoming, says his 25 years of gauging support for candidates tell him that Vice President Kamala Harris should be worried. As her polling numbers drop, he says he’d put his money on Trump.

Leo WolfsonOctober 14, 2024

Former President Donald Trump singled out Wyoming U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman and Secretary of State for praise during a rally in Aurora, Colorado, on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024.

Trump Shouts Out Harriet Hageman, Chuck Gray At Colorado Rally

Former President Donald Trump singled out a pair of Wyoming politicians during a Friday rally in Aurora, Colorado. He gave shoutouts to Harriet Hageman for beating Liz Cheney “so badly” and Chuck Gray for doing a “great job.”

Leo WolfsonOctober 12, 2024

There was a long line out the door for early voting at the Laramie County Clerk's Office in Cheyenne on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024.

Massive Early Voting Turnout Surge Shatters Records Across Wyoming

Early voting opened across Wyoming this week and is shattering turnout records. In Cheyenne, the line was out the door Friday afternoon with people waiting to cast their ballots ahead of the Nov. 5 general election.

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

Park County Coroner Who Is Also Funeral Home Director Is Running To Be On Cemetery Board

The local funeral home director in Cody is also the Park County coroner. He is now running to serve on the local cemetery board. This would give him a role in all stages of death in the county.

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

The small, rural Wyoming town of Dayton sits at the bottom of the Bighorns where the Elk Fire burns across the mountain face.

Wyoming’s Huge Wildfires Prompt National Online Conspiracy Theories

A pair of huge wildfires have burned more than 147,000 acres in Wyoming, and people are wondering why that’s not national news. Others are pushing conspiracy theories, including the government started the fires to access rare earth minerals.

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

Keith Walters and Spencer Porden from the Tongue River Fire Distict work to protect people and property from the Elk Fire.

Gordon: Wyoming Has Burned Through Two-Year Fire Budget, Needs More Money

Gov. Mark Gordon said Thursday that he’s asking the Legislature for authority to spend more money on fighting Wyoming wildfires. The state has already burned through its $39 million two-year emergency account, and then some.

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

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Legislature Will Consider Potential To Store High-Level Nuclear Waste In Wyoming

A legislative committee advanced a bill this week that, if passed, would move toward allowing storing high-level nuclear waste in Wyoming. Opponents say it’s a disaster waiting to happen, while supporters say it’s “close-minded” not to consider.

Leo WolfsonOctober 10, 2024

A team performing a hand-count test of ballots in Campbell County on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024.

Gillette Hand-Count Ballot Test Shows It Would Take Hundreds Of Counters, Cost Up To $1.3M

A test of hand counting election ballots in Gillette on Friday shows that it would take hundreds of volunteers to do and cost up to $1.3 million. Wyoming law also would need to be changed to allow more time for results.

Leo WolfsonOctober 10, 2024

Plan For Concealed Carry In Some Areas Of Wyoming Capitol Gets Green Light

If it holds up, people will be able to concealed carry firearms in some areas of the Wyoming Capitol under a draft rule passed Wednesday by the State Building Commission.

Leo WolfsonOctober 09, 2024

Ivan Posey of Fort Washakie, right, has announced he's running for the Wyoming Legislature for the House seat held by Rep. Sarah Penn, left.

Race To Represent Reservation Could Be Best Shot For Wyoming Dems To Turn A Seat

The Wyoming House race between incumbent Republican Sarah Penn and Democratic challenger Ivan Posey is one to watch. It could be the best shot Democrats have at turning a seat in the Legislature.

Leo WolfsonOctober 09, 2024

Wyoming’s Highest Paid Administrator Makes $525K, Manages $30B In State Assets

Few people in Wyoming have likely heard of Patrick Fleming, the outgoing chief investment officer for the state of Wyoming who manages $30 billion in assets. He’s also the state’s highest paid administrator, making $525,000 a year.

Leo WolfsonOctober 09, 2024

Weston County Trying To Strongarm Legislature By Appointing Its Own Lawmakers

The Weston County commissioners believe that every county should be individually represented in the Wyoming Legislature. They are seeking to add two seats to represent just their county.

Leo WolfsonOctober 08, 2024

A vigil at Mt. Sinai Synagogue in Cheyenne to mark the first anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war at Mt. Sinai Synagogue on Monday night, Oct. 7, 2024.

Parent Of Israeli Hostage Urges Wyoming, America To Not Forget War With Hamas

An Israeli parent with connections to Wyoming still prays for his son, who has been a Hamas hostage since the brutal attacks Oct. 7, 2023. He wants Wyoming and the U.S. to not forget about the war.

Leo WolfsonOctober 08, 2024

Wyoming Meteorologist Don Day Skeptical Of Claim Government Controls The Weather

Wyoming meteorologist Don Day said he is “extremely skeptical” that the weather is controlled by the government as Georgia congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene claimed over the weekend.

Leo WolfsonOctober 08, 2024

Rocky Mountain Oncology, which operates in Casper and Lander, says it could be put out of business by a nearly $2 million dispute with an insurance provider.

Wyoming Cancer Center May Close Over $2 Million Dispute With Insurance Provider

The only dedicated cancer center in central Wyoming says it may have to close over a nearly $2 million dispute with an insurance provider. The insurance company says it overpaid, so won’t pay out again until that’s made up.

Leo WolfsonOctober 07, 2024

This 1921 painting “Masset, Q.C.I.,” by renowned Canadian artist Emily Carr is seen in an undated handout reproduction. It’s headed to auction after being recovered from a barn in New York state for $50.

$50 Grizzly Bear Painting Found At Barn Sale Could Sell For $150K Or More

A painting of a wooden grizzly bear atop a totem pole recently bought at a New York barn sale for $50 is now expected to sell for $150,000 or more at auction. Turns out the 1912 painting was created by famous Canadian artist Emily Carr.

Leo WolfsonOctober 05, 2024

Trump Blasts Liz Cheney As ‘Stupid War Hawk’ After She Campaigns With Kamala

Former President Donald Trump shot back at former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney after she campaigned with Democratic-presidential nominee Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday.

Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2024

Cheyenne Democrat Makes Second Run For House Against Incumbent-Beater Gary Brown

Cheyenne Democrat Jen Solis is running for a second consecutive time to get into the Wyoming Legislature. She's running against Gary Brown who beat four-term incumbent state Rep. Bill Henderson in the primary.

Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2024

Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray during the 2024 legislative session at the Wyoming Capitol in Cheyenne.

Chuck Gray Raises Alarm About Zuck Bucks Group At County Clerks’ Meeting

Secretary of State Chuck Gray is “deeply troubled” about a nonprofit group tied to privately funding elections attending a Wyoming county clerks’ meeting last week. The so-called Zuck Bucks program gave out $322 million during the 2020 election.

Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2024

Fremont County Republicans Boot Chairman Over Poll Watchers, Critical Letters

The Fremont County Republican Party booted its chairman Tuesday for criticizing candidates for not debating before the primary. He also was called out for not assigning poll watchers for the county election.

Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris, left, and Liz Cheney.

Liz Cheney Campaigns With Kamala At Birthplace Of Republican Party

Former Republican Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney campaigned in support of Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday — at the birthplace of the Republican Party in Wisconsin.

Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2024

Lodging Taxes Generate Nearly $80 Million For Wyoming Over 3 Years

Since it started in 2021, Wyoming’s statewide lodging tax has generated nearly $80 million to support the Wyoming Office of Tourism and local communities.

Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2024

City Drug on the corner of Carey Avenue and 18th Street in downtown Cheyenne.

Even Legislators Not Allowed To Comment To State Pharmacy Board About Suspension

After not taking public comment on a controversial license suspension nearly two weeks ago, the Wyoming Board of Pharmacy wouldn’t listen again Wednesday. This time, even state legislators were barred from commenting.

Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2024

Sara Burlingame, left, and Jacob Wasserburger

Sara Burlingame Running Against Political Newcomer To Get Back In Legislature

A former Wyoming House member and well-known LGBTQ advocate is running to get back into the Legislature. Sara Burlingame, a Democrat, is running against Republican newcomer Jacob Wasserburger for House District 11.

Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2024

Some Who Supported Putting Wyoming Property Tax Amendment On Ballot Now Don’t

Putting a change to the Wyoming Constitution on the ballot to create a new class of property taxation had a lot of support in 2023. Now that it’s going to voters next month, some who supported it then now don’t.

Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2024

Dr. Eric Cubin, left, is suing Gov. Mark Gordon for reinstatement to the Wyoming State Board of Medicine.

Casper Doctor Wants Back On Board Of Medicine As Lawsuit Goes Forward

In a Tuesday filing, Casper radiologist Dr. Eric Cubin wants a judge put him back on the Wyoming Board of Medicine. He’s suing the governor for allegedly forcing him to resign over his views on transgender treatments for minors.

Leo WolfsonOctober 01, 2024

The Trump Victory Tourbillion watch costs $100,000 and comes with a signed letter from the former president.

Trump’s New Line Of $100K Watches Registered To Wyoming Company

A new line of limited-edition luxury watches from former President Donald Trump is registered to a Wyoming company. The watches range in price from $499 to a gold and diamond model for $100,000.

Leo WolfsonOctober 01, 2024

Hageman Votes Against Spending Bill Because It Doesn’t Prevent Illegal Voting

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman voted against a spending bill Wednesday that will keep the federal government open until mid-December. She said it’s because the bill increases spending and doesn’t prevent illegal voting.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 26, 2024

Chip Neiman Plans To Support Freedom Caucus Agenda As Wyoming House Speaker

Although he was rather vague about the details, state Rep. Chip Neiman on Wednesday outlined his vision if elected Wyoming House Speaker. He said he’d support a more conservative agenda favored by the Freedom Caucus.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 26, 2024

Basket of flowers hanging from fence where Matthew Shepard was left tied, beaten near death in a (later fatal) savage assault by Aaron McKinney and Russell Henderson.

Where’s The Line Between Free Speech And Hate Crime In Wyoming?

Separating protected free speech from hate crimes can be tricky, Wyoming federal prosecutors say. Where the line is between them isn’t clear, and the impacts can be devastating if they get it wrong.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 25, 2024

With Utah State also bolting for the Pac-12 Conference, Wyoming is left in the Mountian West with six other schools, which has the conference offering to pay the remaining seven schools to not leave.

Utah State Ditches Mountain West, Leaving UW Athletics In Limbo

The future of University of Wyoming athletics became more uncertain Monday when Utah State University left the Mountain West Conference. Meanwhile, UW has few options.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 24, 2024

Evansville election judge Max Jacobsen looks through the voting roll midday on primary election day, Aug. 20, 2024.

Wheatland Legislator Wants To Green-Light Hand-Counting Ballots In Wyoming

State Rep. Jeremy Haroldson, R-Wheatland, said he’ll propose a bill to clarify and green-light hand counting ballots as fully legal in Wyoming.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 24, 2024

The Buffalo on Cedar Mountain overlooking Cody in honor of Buffalo Bill Cody has been shot up and vandalized over the years.

Cody Group To Repair And Restore Beat Up Statue Honoring Buffalo Bill

A buffalo that stands on Cedar Mountain overlooking Cody, Wyoming, honors the town’s famous founder, Buffalo Bill Cody. It’s also in bad shape, having been shot up and vandalized over the years, but a local group is going to restore it.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 24, 2024

Douglas Smith, 68, was arrested June 25, 2024, in California on suspicion of first-degree murder for the killing of two men during a 2015 robbery of The Coin Shop in Cheyenne.

No Death Penalty For Accused Coin Shop Killer, $500,000 Bond Set

The man accused of gunning down two people in a Cheyenne coin shop in 2015 won’t face the death penalty if convicted. That makes him eligible for bond, which a judge on Monday set at $500,000.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 24, 2024

The 2024 primary election season is promising to shape up as a Republican battleground for control of the Wyoming House.

What Will The Wyoming House Look Like With A Freedom Caucus Majority?

After an aggressive primary election season promising drastic change, the Freedom Caucus will have a House majority. Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, new chairman of the caucus, said pushing back against Gov. Mark Gordon’s policies will be the top priority.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 23, 2024

Work continues on building up and reinforcing a section of mountain that fell away in June and took part of Teton Pass with it.

New Teton Pass Won’t Be Done In November, Pushed Out To Next Summer

A permanent fix and rebuild of a section of Teton Pass that fell off the mountain in June won’t be done by November as hoped. WYDOT is now pushing it out until next summer.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 23, 2024

Tulsi Gabbard speaks at the Laramie County GOP Red State Summit at the Cheyenne Civic Center on Sept. 20, 2024.

Tulsi Gabbard Urges Wyoming To Throw Political Labels Aside And Vote For Trump

Former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, now a leading member of former President Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, spoke in Cheyenne on Friday night. She urged voters to not dismiss the importance of their role in the upcoming election.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 21, 2024

A large billboard designed like the Venezuelan flag warns drivers on southbound Interstate 25 as they enter Colorado that they're entering the South American country instead of the state.

Wyoming Sheriff Bursts Out Laughing At "Venezuela Ahead" Billboard At Colorado Border

Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak told Cowboy State Daily he burst out laughing when he saw the "Venezuela Ahead" billboard at the Wyoming-Colorado border.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2024

Gordon Issues Order To Stop Voting By Non-Citizens, Chuck Gray Says It’s Not Enough

Gov. Mark Gordon issued an executive order Thursday reiterating that non-U.S. citizens can’t vote in Wyoming elections. Secretary of State Chuck Gray has been pushing for election security reforms, and says Gordon’s order isn’t enough.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2024

Legislators have advanced proposed laws that would tighten up Wyoming’s squatting laws. They include allowing law enforcement to immediately remove squatters from a property.

Proposed Laws Could Allow Immediate Removal Of Squatters In Wyoming

Legislators advanced proposed laws Thursday that would tighten up Wyoming’s squatting laws. They include allowing law enforcement to immediately remove squatters from a property.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2024

Shreenshot from a video Cheyenne resident Kristin Taylor posted to a local public Facebook page of Sally Whelan being kicked out of a Wyoming Board of Pharmacy meeting Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024.

Law Enforcement Physically Removes Woman From Board Of Pharmacy Meeting

At a highly contentious meeting on Wednesday, law enforcement had to physically remove a yelling woman from a Wyoming Board of Pharmacy meeting. On Thursday, the board met in a private meeting room because they felt threatened.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2024

U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyoming, with "We Do Not Consent," a new book that tells people why they should reelect Donald Trump and vote for Republican Senate candidates.

Lummis Co-Authors Book On Why People Should Vote For Trump

Cynthia Lummis and nine other U.S. senators released a book Wednesday detailing why former President Donald Trump should be elected. Each wrote a chapter detailing why Republicans must control the White House and U.S. Senate.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2024

Larry Hicks Wants To Be Next Wyoming Senate President, Restore Order

Wyoming state Sen. Larry Hicks of Baggs, Wyoming, announced Tuesday he’s running to be the next president of the state Senate. If elected, Hicks said restoring order to the chamber is one of his main goals.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon said he's "sick and tired" of getting criticism for comments he made at Harvard University last year saying Wyoming should go carbon negative.

Gordon “Sick And Tired” Of Criticism For Harvard Visit, Carbon Negative Comments

Nearly a year after making comments at Harvard University that Wyoming should go carbon negative, Gov. Mark Gordon says he's "sick and tired" of taking criticism for it.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 18, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon said the EPA has issued conflicting rules restricting the future of coal America while verbally supporting the future of carbon capture.

Gordon: Wyoming Can Make Carbon Capture Work If Feds Would Get Out Of The Way

Gov. Mark Gordon and a Campbell County commissioner in the heart of Wyoming coal country said Tuesday that local industry can make carbon capture work. But that won’t happen unless the federal government gets out of the way.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 18, 2024

At Fishing Bridge General Store in Yellowstone National Park, a $2.49 box of Yellowstone Animal Cookies comes with a verbal disclaimer at checkout to not feed them to the wildlife.

Box Of Yellowstone Animal Cookies Comes With A Disclaimer, Threat Of $30K Fine

At a store in Yellowstone National Park, buying a box of animal cookies comes with a verbal disclaimer from a cashier. Not only are people told not to feed the cookies to wildlife, they’re threatened with a $30,000 fine.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 17, 2024

Campaing sings, billboards and television ads are all over Montana as Sen. Jon Tester and challenger Tim Sheehy spend big.

Montana U.S. Senate Race: Tester, Sheehy Have Raised $57 Million, And They're Spending It

Montana incumbent Sen. Jon Tester and Republican challenger Tim Sheehy have raised $57 million so far in the most pivotal senate race in the country. It's the third most expensive race in the nation.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 17, 2024

State of Wyoming employees mill around after the Herschler Building East was evacuated after receiving a threatening letter with a white powder Monday. A hazmat team responded to clear the threat.

Building Next To State Capitol Evacuated Because Of Letter With White Powder

The Herschler building next to the Wyoming Capitol was evacuated Monday after a letter containing a white powder was found in the Secretary of State’s Office. Similar threats were made to the secretaries of state of Iowa and Nebraska.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 16, 2024

Former President Donald Trump was the target of a second assination attempt in less than two months Sunday. Wyoming's U.S. senators say they're "deeply disturbed."

Barrasso, Lummis “Deeply Disturbed” By Second Assassination Attempt On Trump

Wyoming U.S. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis expressed relief that former President Donald Trump is safe after a second assassination attempt Sunday. They’re also “deeply disturbed” by this second attempt on Trump’s life.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 16, 2024

A Wyoming Department of Transporation crew works to repair a hole that develped in the right eastbound lane of Interstate 80 over the Greeley Highway in Cheyenne.

Truckers Worried About Hole In Bridge On I-80 In Cheyenne; WYDOT Says It's OK

Truckers expressed worry Monday about a hole that opened up on a bridge on Interstate 80 in Cheyenne. Although WYDOT was able to patch it up, they’re still worried about it. Transportation officials say the bridge is structurally sound.

Leo Wolfson & Greg JohnsonSeptember 16, 2024

Pisser's Palace in Walkerville, Montana, has only one rule — no politics allowed.

Montana U.S. Senate Race: At Pisser’s Palace In Walkerville, No Politics Allowed

Pisser’s Palace in the historic mining town of Walkerville, Montana, is about as dive bar as it gets. Named after its original owner -- who was named "Pisser" -- the establishment only really has one rule, no talking about politics.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 14, 2024

In his hometown of Big Sandy, Montana, folks don't care much that U.S. Sen. Jon Tester is a Democrat in a red state.

Montana U.S. Senate Race: In Tester’s Hometown, They Don’t Care He’s A Democrat

In and around U.S. Sen. Jon Tester’s hometown of Big Sandy, Montana, opinions are mixed on the incumbent, but most don’t care he’s a Democrat in a red state. His race could tip the scales for control of the Senate.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 13, 2024

Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council Chairman Bryce Kirk admonished Montana Republican Senate candidate Tim Sheehy at a press conference on Thursday for comments he made disparaging Native Americans.

Montana U.S. Senate Race: Tribal Leaders Slam Tim Sheehy For Drunk Comments

Montana tribal leaders slammed Republican Montana U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy on Thursday. They were responded to disparaging remaks Sheehy made about Native Americans being drunk in the morning.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2024

The University of Wyoming isn't one of four Mountain West schools jumping over to the Pac-12. But UW's fiercest rival Colorado State University is.

University Of Wyoming Not Among Four Mountain West Schools Joining Pac-12

A Thursday announcement reveals four Mountain West schools are jumping to the Pac-12, but University of Wyoming isn’t one of them. UW’s fiercest rival CSU is, however, along with Boise State, Fresno State and San Diego State.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2024

A satirical political sign criticizing U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy, a Republican, who's challenging incumbent Democrat Jon Tester in a race that could decide the balance in the Senate.

“Wannabe Cowboy” Or TV Farmer? Gloves Are Off In Pivotal Montana Senate Race

Running as a Democrat in the solidly red state of Montana, Tester has tried to distance himself from Biden and Harris, refraining from endorsing either candidate for president this fall and billing himself as a moderate Democrat who has strayed from the president on issues.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2024

Rash Of Vandalism Hits Political Signs In Laramie

Wyoming Senate candidate Gary Crum estimates around 16 of his campaign signs were vandalized with vulgar changes. Crum said it will cost him thousands of dollars to replace the signs

Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2024

Former President Donald Trump, left, and Vice President Kamala Harris debate in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024.

Wyoming Delegation Claims Win For Trump In First Debate With Kamala

Wyoming’s Republican congressional delegation all claimed victory for former President Donald Trump in Tuesday’s debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. "She is the most radical left candidate ever to run for the presidency," Rep. Harriet Hageman said.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2024

Cody Republican Tapped As Next Leader Of Wyoming Freedom Caucus

Cody state Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams has been chosen as the new leader for the Wyoming Freedom Caucus. She’ll lead a group that will have a comfortable majority in the state House next session.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2024

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, left, and his Republican challenger Tim Sheehy.

Wyoming Closely Watching Pivotal U.S. Senate Race In Montana

A pivotal race between Democrat U.S. Sen. Jon Tester and Republican challenger Tim Sheehy in Montana could swing power in the U.S. Senate. That has Wyoming closely watching this high-stakes race.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 10, 2024

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First Public Dunkin’ Franchise In Wyoming Opens

The first public Dunkin’ franchise in Wyoming opened Monday morning. The popular coffee and donuts spot is inside the new Horse Palace Swan Ranch in Cheyenne. The only other location is on F.E. Warren Air Force Base and not accessible to the public.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 10, 2024

State Treasurer Curt Meier, left, at the Wyoming Republican Party Central Committee meeting Sept. 7, 2024.

State Treasurer Says Gordon “Blindsided” Him, And He’s Tired Of “Taking His Sh**”

Wyoming State Treasurer Curt Meier’s frustration with Gov. Mark Gordon boiled over at Saturday’s state GOP Central Committee meeting. He said Gordon “blindsided” him at a Friday meeting and that he’s tired of “taking his sh**.”

Leo WolfsonSeptember 09, 2024

On ABC's "This Week" on Sunday, Liz Cheney said Donald Trump isn't a real conservative and is "deranged."

On Sunday Morning Show, Liz Cheney Says Trump Is “Deranged” And Not Conservative

Appearing on ABC's "This Week" on Sunday, former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney doubled down on her criticism of Donald Trump. Cheney, who was beaten badly by Rep. Hageman in the primary election two years ago, said Trump was "deranged" and not conservative.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 09, 2024

Alex and Sarah Aragon (left) lent the tires off their Corvette so Don Herzler, right, could continue on the Corvette Caravan.

Cheyenne Man Gives Fellow Corvette Owner The Tires Off His Own Wheels

When a California Corvette owner had a blowout and thought he’d be stranded in Cheyenne for days awaiting new tires, a local man gave him the tires off his own Vette. It was just one of 500 Corvettes motoring through Wyoming's capital city on a cross-country drive.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2024

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Cheneys Don't Get Censured at Wyo GOP Meeting Because They're Not Considered Republicans

Although there was a discussion about censuring Dick and Liz Cheney for their endorsements of Kamala Harris, it was quickly shot down as attendees of a state GOP meeting said they weren't real Republicans anyway, so why bother.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2024

Brian Schuck, legal counsel for the Wyoming GOP, expressed concern that Democrats may not accept Wyoming's three electoral votes because of a breach of protocol with vote tabulator tests earlier this summer.

Wyoming GOP Worries Flawed Voting Machine Tests Could Disqualify Electoral Votes

Some at Saturday’s Wyoming Republican Party Central Committee meeting in Douglas said they’re worried about errors with voting machine tests. They’re concerned those errors could be used to disqualify the states three electoral votes.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2024

Central Wyoming College Pushes Back On Jeanette Ward’s COVID Claims

Central Wyoming College is pushing back on claims state Rep. Jeanette Ward made about its COVID policies. CWC does not require testing or vaccines for students, but some of the private facilities it works with do.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 07, 2024

Former Vice President Dick Cheney, left, and Vice President Kamala Harris.

Like Father, Like Daughter: Now Dick Cheney Endorses Kamala

Just days after former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney announced her support of Kamala Harris, her father Dick Cheney said he was supporting her too.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024

Cheyenne Democrat Jen Solis stands with one of her “Republicans For Jen Solis” yard signs.

Wyoming Dems Hope To Gain Ground After Freedom Caucus Primary Surge

After a primary election surge by the farther right Wyoming Freedom Caucus, Wyoming Democrats hope to gain legislative seats in November. They’re counting on votes from other Republicans who opposed the Freedom Caucus.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024

Hunter Biden and U.S. Sen. Harriet Hageman

Hageman Says Hunter Biden Guilty Plea Tip Of The Iceberg Of Corruption

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says Thursday’s surprise guilty plea from Hunter Biden is just the tip of the iceberg of corruption associated with the White House. She said President Biden and Vice President Harris also are suspect.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024

Perennial Candidate Rex Rammell Says He’s Done With Politics, America Doomed

Rock Springs resident Rex Rammell has been a fixture in Wyoming elections since 2016, running for Congress and governor. Now he says he’s done with politics and feels America is doomed.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 2024

Surprise (Or Not) — Liz Cheney Says She’ll Vote For Kamala Harris For President

Longtime Republican and former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney announced Wednesday she’ll vote for Vice President Kamala Harris for president.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 2024

Could Wyoming Legislators Get Out Of Tickets Through “Legislative Privilege?”

A Colorado state lawmaker recently got out of a speeding ticket by claiming “legislative privilege.” It’s unclear whether the Wyoming Constitution would allow legislators to claim that in the Cowboy State.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 2024

Trump’s Flip On Abortion Not A Big Issue With Many In Wyoming

Former President Donald Trump’s flip on abortion has made national news. But many pro-life and pro-choice people in Wyoming say it’s not a big issue.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 04, 2024

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, left, and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming.

Montana Dem Group Tries To Buy Support From College Athletes For Sen. Jon Tester

A Montana group offered to pay college athletes to support Democrat Sen. Jon Tester in his reelection campaign. Wyoming’s delegation is slamming the move, with Hariett Hageman calling it an “asinine and embarrassing campaign tactic.”

Leo WolfsonSeptember 04, 2024

Teense and Sandy Willford. They were married for nearly 60 years.

Former Wyoming Legislator And Saratoga Legend Teense Willford Dies At 85

Former Wyoming legislator and Saratoga legend Teense Willford, 85, died Tuesday of complications from cancer. He also loved music and was known around the Platte Valley as the “Voice of the Valley.”

Leo WolfsonSeptember 03, 2024

Cheyenne Republicans Protest Registered Sex Offender Running For College Board

A Cheyenne registered sex offender did time for soliciting sex from a 14-year-old boy. Now he’s running to be a Laramie County Community College trustee, and the local Republican Party isn’t happy about it.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 03, 2024

Myron Cook, a retired geologist, has got millions of views on his YouTube videos describing unique and interesting geologic formations around Wyoming and the region.

Wyoming Geologist Gets Millions Of Views As YouTube Rock Star

Myron Cook, a retired petroleum geologist, is amassing millions of views on YouTube for talking about geology in Wyoming. The Burlington man wasn't expecting his page would go anywhere. “I did it just for the joy of geology," he said.

Leo WolfsonSeptember 02, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon durign the 2024 Wyoming legislative session.

Proposed Health Care Commission Nixed Over Fears Gordon Would Meddle With It

The Wyoming Joint Health, Labor and Social Services Committee rejected creating a state health care commission Friday. Legislators said they feared Gov. Mark Gordon would overstep his authority with it.

Leo WolfsonAugust 31, 2024

Matt Malcom, right, lost his Republican primary election to state Rep. Daniel Singh and is suing Secretary of State Chuck Gray, left, to get onto the general eleciton ballot.

Primary Loser Sues Chuck Gray To Get On General Election Ballot

Cheyenne resident Matt Malcom is suing Chuck Gray for upholding Wyoming’s “sore loser” law. Malcom lost in last week’s Republican primary and wants to be on the general election ballot. Problem is, that’s against the law.

Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2024

State Sen. Troy McKeown, R-Gillette, believes Vice President Kamala Harris’ plan to cap grocery store prices to fight price gouging is misguided.

Gillette Grocer And Legislator Says Kamala Misses Target On Price Gouging

Troy McKeown is a state legislator and owner of a pair of small, independent grocery stores in northeast Wyoming. He says Vice President Kamala Harris’ plan to fight price gouging by grocery stores misses the target.

Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2024

Casper Doctor Sues Gordon For Forcing Him Off State Board Of Medicine

Dr. Eric Cubin sued Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday for being forced off the Wyoming State Board of Medicine. Cubin says he was forced to resign after publicly supporting a law banning transgender treatments for children and wants his board seat back.

Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024

An array of large shipping containers holding materials to build a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody are staged at the site.

Judge Gives Final Go-Ahead For Controversial 101-Foot-Tall Cody LDS Temple

The drama and legal wrangling over a controversial 101-foot-tall LDS temple in Cody, Wyoming, appears to be over — at least for now. A judge has ruled against a temple opposition group, clearing the way for construction to begin.

Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024

Evanston Mayor Kent Williams, sitting right, blasted the Uinta County Herald for its front-page coverage of a city staffer leaving a vulgar voicemail for a local resident.

Evanston Mayor Slams Local Paper For Reporting On Staffer’s Vulgar Voicemail

Evanston Mayor Kent Williams has blasted the local newspaper for reporting on a city staffer leaving a vulgar voicemail for a resident. It’s caused a rift on the city council, with four members issuing a letter of “no confidence” in the mayor.

Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024

At Wednesday's meeting of the State Canvassing Board, Secretary of State Chuck Gray says Wyoming's elections still aren't secure enough despite no major issues being reported during last week's primary election.

Despite Few Issues With Primary, Chuck Gray Says Elections Not Secure Enough

There were very few issues reported with last week’s primary, but Chuck Gray said on Wednesday that Wyoming elections still aren’t secure enough. He and the rest of the State Canvassing Board also unanimously certified the primary results.

Leo WolfsonAugust 28, 2024

Former Universtiy of Wyoming standout Frank Crum, a 6-foot-7, 315-pound rookie, has made the 2024 Denver Broncos roster. He's seen here during a preseason game against the Indianapolis Colts.

Former UW Standout Frank Crum Makes Denver Broncos Roster

Former University of Wyoming standout offensive lineman Frank Crum made the Denver Broncos initial 53-man roster Tuesday. The 6-foot-7, 315-pound rookie could still be waived or put on the practice squad.

Leo WolfsonAugust 28, 2024

Republican candidate for Wyoming's U.S. Senate nomination, speaks during the 2024 Wyoming Republican Party convention in Cheyenne.

Reid Rasner Said His Polls Showed He Was In A Dead Heat With Barrasso, But He Lost Huge

GOP Senate candidate Reid Rasner spent the last few weeks before the primary election claiming his poll numbers had him in a dead heat with Barrasso. But he lost in a landslide. Can any internal polls be trusted?

Leo WolfsonAugust 27, 2024

Rocky Case and the Wyoming Secretary of State's Office in Cheyenne.

Chuck Gray Skeptical Independent Candidate Got 68 Signatures In 10 Minutes

Secretary of State Chuck Gray may reject an Independent candidate’s last-minute bid for the Wyoming House. Rocky Case on Monday got his campaign OK’d by Gray’s office, then turned in his signatures 10 minutes later.

Leo WolfsonAugust 27, 2024

A U.S. Border Patrol agent documents a group of illegal immigrants who crossed into the United States near Yuma, Arizona, in the early morning hours of Aug. 2, 2024.

Wyoming Fights Biden Program For Immigrants To Become Citizens Through Marriage

Wyoming is suing over a new Biden administration program that could give American citizenship to illegal immigrants who marry U.S. citizens.

Leo WolfsonAugust 26, 2024

The temple is 97 eet tall, just 4 feet shorter than a controversial temple being built in Cody, but with much less resistance.

Wyoming’s Second LDS Temple Opens In Casper, With Third On The Way

Monday’s opening of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Casper Wyoming Temple is the second LDS temple complete in Wyoming. A third isn’t far behind as work is planned on a controversial temple in Cody.

Leo WolfsonAugust 26, 2024

House Majority Floor Leader Chip Neiman, R-Hulett.

Chip Neiman To Run For House Speaker On Heels Of Huge Election For Freedom Caucus

On the heels of a huge Republican primary for the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, House Majority Leader Chip Neiman says he’ll run for House Speaker.

Leo WolfsonAugust 24, 2024

The representatives of Wyoming's Democratic at this week's Democratic Natonal Convention in Chicago.

At DNC, Wyoming Dems Represent A State That Stands For A Lot Of What Their Party Opposes

At the DNC this week, Wyoming Democrats have to balance some political realities. That includes representing a state that supports a lot of what their party opposes, like continued reliance on fossil fuels.

Leo WolfsonAugust 23, 2024

Wyoming 17 Democratic delegates cheer on Tuesday night as they are announced at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

DNC Snubs Wyoming Delegation’s Song, Plays Black Eyed Peas Instead

When Wyoming cast its votes during the roll call at the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday, a song by the Black Eyed Peas blasted out. Turns out, the delegation was just as surprised to hear “I Gotta Feeling” as everyone else.

Leo WolfsonAugust 23, 2024

After Primary Loss, Green River Incumbent Bashes Opponent As “One-Term Failure”

State Rep. Tony Niemiec, R-Green River, was less than conciliatory after losing his primary Republican reelection bid Tuesday night. He bashed opponent Marlene Brady as weak and predicted she’ll “be a one-term failure.”

Leo WolfsonAugust 22, 2024

Mudslinging Was A Theme Of The Wyoming Primary, And It Seems To Have Paid Off

Negative and vicious campaigning was a theme leading up to Tuesday’s Wyoming primary. But the results show mudslinging has seemed to pay off with success at the ballot box.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

In the early afternoon in Laramie, turnout was pretty low at Laramie High School. But turnout at this polling place usually hits its peak after people get off work.

Low Turnout Could Be Why All The Close Wyoming Primary Races And Upsets

One of the major takeaways from Tuesday’s Wyoming primary election is the number of close races and upsets. One reason for that could be low voter turnout.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Wyoming Freedom Caucus Has Huge Republican Primary, Could Gain 11 Seats

Tuesday’s Wyoming Republican Party was huge for the Freedom Caucus. Should candidates that align with the group win out in November, it could gain 11 seats in the Wyoming House.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Ann Lucas upset longtime Cheyenne legislator Dan Zwonitzer in the Republican primary Tuesday.

Longtime Cheyenne Legislator Dan Zwonitzer Loses Bid For 11th Term In Office

Longtime state Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, was beaten by Freedom Caucus-endorsee Ann Lucas in his primary election Tuesday night. His run in the House ends at 10 terms.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Incumbent Landon Brown Wins Close Republican Primary For House District 9

Wyoming House veteran Landon Brown won his Republican primary reelection bid for a fifth term by 17 votes over challenger Exie Brown on Tuesday night.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Trump Endorsee Darin Smith Wins Anthony Bouchard's Former Senate Seat

Cheyenne resident Darin Smith, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump, won his Senate District 6 race in a landslide.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Park County voters line up to cast their ballots at the Cody Rec Center for the Aug. 20, 2024, Wyoming primary election.

Ongoing Results Of The 2024 Wyoming Primary Election

This is a "live" file of results of contested legislative races in the 2024 Wyoming primary election. As soon as we get the results, this will be updated.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, seen here meeting folks at the Big Horn Senior Center, won reelection Tuesday.

Barrasso Cruises To Easy Victory In Primary Election

Wyoming’s senior U.S. Sen. John Barrasso easily beat his two Republican opponents in the primary election Tuesday.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Hageman Scores Easy Win In Wyoming Republican Primary

Freshman congresswoman Harriet Hageman easily won the Republican primary in Wyoming on Tuesday by beating unknown challenger Steve Helling of Casper.

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Voters leave Storey Gym in Cheyenne after casting their votes on Tuesday.

Wyoming Voters Say Economy, Personal Integrity Among Main Worries

Voters casting their ballots in Tuesday’s Wyoming primary election say they’re worried about the economy. They also say the personal integrity of candidates and elected officials concerns them.

Leo WolfsonAugust 20, 2024

Sheridan Group Won’t Stop Using Republican Elephant Logo Because Of Free Speech

A Sheridan political group says it won’t stop using the trademarked Republican elephant logo. Instead, it calls the Wyoming Republican Party demand that it cease and desist using it a “threat” to free speech.

Leo WolfsonAugust 20, 2024

Early voting was brisk Monday moring in the lobby of the Laramie County Clerk's Office in Cheyenne.

Wyoming At A Crossroads: Primary Is Huge For Cowboy State Republicans

A growing split between Wyoming Republicans comes to a head in Tuesday’s primary. The Freedom Caucus could gain majority control of the state House, while the rival Wyoming Caucus has worked to reverse that momentum.

Leo WolfsonAugust 20, 2024

People rally for and against abortion outside the Wyoming Capitol in Cheyenne.

Wyoming Republican Candidates Not Thrilled With Support From Pro-Choice Group

A new Wyoming pro-choice group is supporting a handful of Republican candidates. But they’re not thrilled, saying it gives the false impression they’re pro-abortion.

Leo WolfsonAugust 19, 2024

Wyoming GOP Tells Sheridan Campaign Group To Stop Using Its Elephant Logo

The Wyoming Republican Party has sent a cease-and-desist letter to a local Sheridan County GOP group for using the state party’s elephant logo on election mailers. The chief legal counsel for the party threatened litigation if the issue isn't resolved.

Leo WolfsonAugust 19, 2024

Trump Doubles Down On Wyoming Endorsements With 3 Days To Go Before Election

With three days to go before the primary election, former President Donald Trump reiterated his support for U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, Rep. Harriet Hageman, and Wyoming legislative candidate Darin Smith.

Leo WolfsonAugust 18, 2024

Behind The Mailers: Virginia-Based Make Liberty Win Spends $370K On Wyoming Primary

Virginia-based Libertarian political group Make Liberty Win has been aggressive in elections across the nation this year. In Wyoming, it spent more than $370,000 on a flood of campaign mailers and other efforts.

Leo WolfsonAugust 17, 2024

Former President Donald Trump at a private event at the Four Seasons in Jackson, Wyoming, on Aug. 10, 2024, where he complemented Gov. Mark Gordon.

Critics Say Gordon Deceptive For Trying To Use Trump To Benefit Candidates

Critics of Gov. Mark Gordon are saying he's hypocritical and deceptive for sending out a campaign text message claiming an alliance with former President Trump while encouraging Wyomingites to vote for candidates the governor supports.

Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2024

State House Rep. Clark Stith, left, and challenger Darin McCann.

Clark Stith Says His Wyoming House Opponent Shouldn’t Be Allowed To Vote

State Rep. Clark Stith says a 2023 law that did away with crossover voting in Wyoming also applies to people who register to vote too late. That means his House District 48 opponent shouldn’t be able to vote in Tuesday’s primary.

Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2024

State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, left, and challenger Ann Lucas, right.

Dan Zwonitzer Denies Calling Challenger A “Cancer,” But Maintains She’s A “Liar”

Dan Zwonitzer didn’t show up for a Wednesday political event to face off with his Cheyenne challenger. But that didn’t stop them from slinging mud, with Zwonitzer denying he called Ann Lucas a “cancer,” but reiterating he thinks she’s a “liar.”

Leo WolfsonAugust 15, 2024

Campaign Finance Reports Released: Gordon Is Wyoming's Largest Donor

Campaign finance reports filed by Tuesday’s deadline show Gov. Mark Gordon is Wyoming's largest donor in the primary election. He gave $150,000 to his political action committee and another $33,000 to candidates.

Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck urged the State Building Commission to quickly move forward with allowing the concealed carry of firearms in the State Capitol.

Voicemail Threatens “Retribution” If Chuck Gray Doesn’t Run A Clean Election

Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Tuesday received a profanity-laced voicemail which threatened him with “retribution” if he doesn’t run a clean primary election. Gray says he’s not intimidated and will “never back down” from doing his duty.

Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2024

Laramie County Clerk Debra Lee introduces the second test of the voting machines on Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2024.

No Issues Turn Up In Second Test Of Laramie County Voting Machines

A second test of Laramie County’s election equipment Tuesday didn’t find any issues with the voting machines. The attorney who filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Laramie County GOP, however, said the result of the test and the lawsuit are separate issues.

Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2024

Sheridan state House candidate Gail Symons says she's fed up with the "100% lies" made in negative campaign mailers.

Gail Symons Fed Up With Mailers Saying She Loves High Property Taxes And Cheney

Sheridan state House candidate Gail Symons says she’s fed up with the “100% lies” about her made in campaign mailers. The latest one claims she’s a “proud supporter of Liz Cheney” and wants higher property taxes.

Leo WolfsonAugust 13, 2024

Chuck Gray Wants Quick Approval Of Concealed Carry In Wyoming Capitol

Secretary of State Chuck Gray urged Gov. Mark Gordon and the State Building Commission on Monday to move quickly to allow concealed carry of guns in the Wyoming Capitol.

Leo WolfsonAugust 13, 2024

Anger Over Wyoming Political Mailers Boiling Over As Primary Looms

The sheer volume of political mailers stuffing mailboxes ahead of the primary has Wyomingites turning from frustrated to angry. Then there’s what’s printed on them — an overdose of false and misleading claims.

Leo WolfsonAugust 12, 2024

Signs point the way to the Laramie County Clerk's Office in Cheyenne for people who want to vote early.

Laramie County Clerk Says Wyoming Republican Party Trying To “Disrupt” Election

The Laramie County Clerk says a lawsuit questioning a test of voting machines is an attempt by the Wyoming Republican Party to "disrupt" the primary election. Another test is planned for Tuesday.

Leo WolfsonAugust 12, 2024

Former President Donald Trump speaks to a packed house of supporters during Friday's rally in Bozeman, Montana.

Trump Cheered As He Rips Harris-Walz Campaign During Montana Rally

Former President Donald Trump ripped into Kamala Harris and her new VP pick in a packed-house Montana rally Friday. He also scored points with the crowd by taking shots at President “Sleepy Joe” Biden.

Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2024

Thousands of people gathered outside the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in preparation of the Trump rally on Friday.

MAGA-Mania Takes Over Bozeman Ahead Of Trump Rally

Bozeman, Montana, was in full MAGA-mania mode Friday afternoon ahead of former President Donald Trump’s rally. Mechanical issues with Trump’s plane that forced an unscheduled landing in Billings had the city buzzing even more.

Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2024

Laramie City Council Candidate Says He Won’t Drop Out Despite Felony Charge

Laramie City Council candidate Paul Montoya says he won’t stop his campaign despite facing a felony charge. He’s accused of hacking into Wyoming Public Radio's radio transmitters and shutting off access to them while working for the station.

Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2024

David Hill, left, and state Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams.

Cody State House Challenger Accuses Prominent Pro-Lifer Of Flip-Flopping

In a highly charged debate this week, Cody state House Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams was accused by her Republican challenger of flip-flopping. She countered, saying David Hill is “disconnected from reality.”

Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2024

Laramie City Council Candidate Accused Of Sabotaging Wyoming Public Radio

Laramie City Council candidate Paul Montoya is accused of hacking into and sabotaging Wyoming Public Radio when he worked there in 2022. Facing a felony charge, at least one council member says he should end his campaign.

Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2024

Senate President Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower.

Freedom Caucus PAC Returns Disputed $25K Donation From Crook County GOP

The campaign arm of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus has returned a $25,000 donation made to it by the Crook County Republican Party. The move comes after Ogden Driskill filed a complaint and requested a state investigation into it.

Leo WolfsonAugust 08, 2024

An error message one of Laramie County's machines displayed during a Monday test.

Laramie County Republicans File Complaint After Election Equipment Test

The Laramie County Republican Party has submitted an official complaint Tuesday claiming a county test of election equipment was suspect. Party officials observing the test noted protocol not being followed and other concerns.

Leo WolfsonAugust 07, 2024

Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers says a rumor that he's somehow connected to the Chinese Communist Party is "the most ridiculous thing that I have ever heard in my life."

Albert Sommers Calls Claim He’s Working With Chinese Communists “Ridiculous”

Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale, said he finds accusations by a primary opponent that he’s connected to the Chinese Communist Party “laughable” and “ridiculous.”

Leo WolfsonAugust 06, 2024

State Rep. Daniel Singh, R-Cheyenne, and primary challenger Matt Malcom.

Pair Of Gen Z Republicans Run For Cheyenne House District Seat

State Rep. Daniel Singh, R-Cheyenne, and Republican House challenger Matt Malcom, both 27, say their youth works for them. Both are among the few Gen Z candidates in the Wyoming primary and aren’t shy sounding off on each other.

Leo WolfsonAugust 06, 2024

Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower.

Driskill Files Complaint Over County Party’s $25K Donation To Freedom Caucus PAC

Senate President Ogden Driskill thinks a $25,000 Crook County Republicans donation to the Wyoming Freedom Caucus PAC is illegal. He filed a complaint Monday with the Secretary of State’s Office.

Leo WolfsonAugust 05, 2024

Wyoming lawmakers are shown the difference between the southern border wall built by former President Donald Trump on the right, and a smaller section built by President Joe Biden on the left.

"Every State Is A Border State": Border Wall Visit Eye-Opening For Wyoming Legislators

A group of Wyoming legislators say the impact the Mexican crime cartels are having on the border crisis is sobering. All said they will support legislation that would give money specifically for more law enforcement efforts at the border in Arizona.

Leo WolfsonAugust 04, 2024

Wyoming Legislators Watch Migrants Illegally Cross Border In Arizona

A group of Wyoming state legislators watched migrants illegally cross the border early Friday morning as they toured the border area in Yuma, Arizona. Cowboy State Daily joined the lawmakers as they saw for themselves America’s border crisis.

Leo WolfsonAugust 02, 2024

House District 9 candidate Exie Brown speaks during the Laramie County Republican Party's Politics in the Park event Wednesday night. He accused his opponent, state Rep. Landon Brown, left, of "flip-flopping" on votes.

Landon Brown Accused Of Being a "Flip-Flopper" On Trans Sports Policy

Challenger Exie Brown said Rep. Landon Brown voted against a bill prohibiting males identifying as females from participating in female-designated school sports in 2022, but then voted to support it in 2023. “That kind of flip-flop would make John Kerry blush,” Exie said.

Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2024

A lack of affordable housing is a serious problem in many Wyoming communities. The Legislature will consider a bill in its next session that could make state-owned land available for affordable housing projects.

Wyoming Legislators Debate Using State-Owned Land For Affordable Housing

A Wyoming legislative committee advanced a bill Tuesday that would allow affordable housing to be built on state-owned land. Critics says the state shouldn’t get into the landlord business and has a constitutional obligation to maximize revenue.

Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2024

Wyoming Man Who Went After Police With Flagpole During Jan. 6 Riot Convicted

Douglas Harrington of Bedford, Wyoming, was convicted Wednesday for his role during the Jan. 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol. He was found guilty of multiple charges, including assaulting law enforcement with a flagpole.

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

Thermopolis resident Cheryl Aguiar inspects some of the 44,650 signatures her group collected and turned in to the Secretary of State's Office in May.

Petition To Slash Property Taxes 50% Falls 1,000 Valid Signatures Short

A Wyoming ballot initiative to slash property taxes 50% is about 1,000 valid signatures short to get on the 2026 ballot. The group has until April 2025 to make up the deficit.

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

Brief: Man Accused Of Killing 2 at Cheyenne Coin Shop Pleads Not Guilty

The man arrested nine years after two people were gunned down during a robbery at a Cheyenne coin shop has pleaded not guilty. Douglas Smith, who faces two first-degree murder charges, made his plea Monday.

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

This office building used by Registered Agents Inc. in Sheridan is the official address for about 120,000 LLCs registered in Wyoming, Fremont County Assessor Tara Berg estimates.

Are Wyoming’s Secretive LLC Laws Making State A “Haven For Scammers?”

Concerned Wyoming’s secretive LLC laws are making the state a “haven for scammers,” legislators are looking to close loopholes. In Sheridan, one office is the official address for about 120,000 businesses registered in Wyoming.

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

Wyoming Senate District 6 candidate Darin Smith, left, has been endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Trump Endorses Darin Smith For Wyoming Legislature

Former President Donald Trump has made his first campaign endorsement for a race in the Wyoming Legislature. Trump announced over the weekend his support for Cheyenne Senate candidate Darin Smith.

Leo WolfsonJuly 30, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon greets members of the Wyoming Legislature before their 2024 session convened.

Gordon’s PAC Hits High Gear With Endorsements, Money For Freedom Caucus Opponents

Gov. Mark Gordon’s political action committee is targeting what it calls a flood of campaign “half-truths and outright lies.” He also has endorsed some state legislative candidates, but none from the Freedom Caucus.

Leo WolfsonJuly 30, 2024

Former Wyoming college wrestlers Kendell Cummings, from left, Orrin Jackson, August Harrison and Brady Lowry got a free trip to Alaska to film a documentary on the 2022 grizzly attack they survived.

Wyoming Wrestlers Who Fought Grizzly Featured In New Documentary

A group of wrestlers from northwest Wyoming who successfully fought off an angry grizzly bear in 2022 were in Alaska this summer to face bears — and their fears — again. They’re part of a documentary about their story, which could start streaming in 2025.

Leo WolfsonJuly 29, 2024

Former state legislator and World War II veteran Gus Fleischli has died. He was 98.

Former Wyoming Legislator, World War II Veteran Gus Fleischli Dies At 98

Former state legislator, gubernatorial candidate, oil executive, and University of Wyoming super fan Gus Fleischli died Monday at age 98. Gov. Mark Gordon has ordered the Wyoming state flag be lowered in Fleischli's honor.

Leo WolfsonJuly 27, 2024

Senate President Ogden Driskill, left, and state Sen. Brian Boner.

Sen. Brian Boner Slams Senate President, Other Senators For Endorsements

Sen. Brian Boner says Ogden Driskill's endorsement of a candidate in a campaign mailer is "belligerent, given the responsibilities of the office he will occupy for a few more months."

Leo WolfsonJuly 27, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, remains the most popular U.S. senator for the fifth straight quarter, according to Morning Consult.

Poll: Barrasso Remains America’s Most Popular U.S. Senator

A Morning Consult poll released this week indicates John Barrasso remains America’s most popular U.S. senator for the fifth straight quarter with a 71% approval rating. A national pollster says Barrasso's seat is very safe.

Leo WolfsonJuly 26, 2024

Rock Springs Legislators Sue Over Mailers That Claim They Want Trump Off Ballot

Two Rock Springs Republican legislators are suing over Wyoming Freedom Caucus election mailers that claim they want Trump off ballots. Cody Wylie and J.T. Larson say the claims are deliberately false and meant to mislead.

Leo WolfsonJuly 26, 2024

Liz Cheney’s Super PAC Supports Fundraising Platform For Democratic Candidates

Former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney’s super political action committee is paying into a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Democratic candidates. Her group says keeping Trump from the Oval Office again is “the cause of our time.”

Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2024

Hageman Says If Biden’s ‘Too Feeble’ To Run, He’s ‘Too Feeble To Be President’

Following President Biden's address on Wednesday evening, Wyoming’s congressional delegation questioned whether he should remain in office. Rep. Harriet Hageman said if the president is “too feeble to be a candidate, he’s too feeble to be president.”

Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2024

Wyoming Democrats Angry That Rep. Hageman Called Kamala Harris A ‘DEI Hire’

Although Wyoming Democrats are mad because Rep. Hageman called Kamala Harris a 'DEI hire,' Hageman said, “If you don’t want people to say she was hired only because she’s a black woman, then maybe Biden shouldn’t have said he was only gonna hire a black woman.”

Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2024

Tempers Flare Between House Candidate And County Sheriff At Buffalo Candidate Forum

A candidate forum got heated in Buffalo on Tuesday night when Johnson County Sheriff Rod Odenbach said gun lobbyist and House candidate Mark Jones' support of two gun bills which became law makes it harder for law enforcement to do their jobs.

Leo WolfsonJuly 24, 2024

Trump Coming To Jackson, Wyoming For Fundraiser On Aug. 10

Former President Donald Trump will be coming to Jackson on Aug. 10 to speak at a private fundraising event for his campaign. The price of admission is $5,000. To attend the reception and get a photo will cost $35,000.

Leo WolfsonJuly 24, 2024

More than 100 people showed up for the daytime town hall.

Gordon Concerned About Misinformation Campaigns Targeting Wyoming Primary Races

At a Tuesday town hall in Sheridan, Gov. Mark Gordon said he’s concerned about out-of-state misinformation campaigns designed to sway Wyoming’s primary election. He also promoted the state’s efforts to bolster its economy.

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

Secret Service Director Abruptly Quits, But Wyoming Delegation Still Want Answers

Wyoming’s congressional delegation is pleased with Tuesday’s abrupt resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. But they still want answers about the agency’s failings during the assassination attempt on Trump.

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

Wyoming Attorney Who Fought COVID Mandates Disbarred For Abandoning Clients

Nick Beduhn, a Buffalo attorney who represented clients in a number of cases opposing COVID-19 mandates, has been disbarred by the Wyoming State Bar. The disbarment comes after an indefinite suspension in November 2022.

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle during an hourslong House Committee on Oversight and Accountability meeting Monday, July 22, 2024.

Wyoming Delegation Ads To List Demanding Secret Service Director Resign

Wyoming's delegation is among a growing contingent in Congress demanding Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle quit. Cheatle was grilled by a House committee Monday about her agency’s miscues before and during the assassination attempt on Trump.

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

Now What? Wyoming Dems To Meet About What To Do Now That Biden Is Out

After Sunday’s bombshell that President Joe Biden is halting his 2024 reelection campaign, the Wyoming Democratic Party is regrouping. Its 17 delegates for the party’s national convention are expected to meet Monday to discuss what they’ll do now.

Leo WolfsonJuly 22, 2024

Rep. Cody Wylie, (R-Rock Springs), holds up a mailer accusing him of being "woke"

Wyoming Candidates Angered Over Mudslinging Pre-Primary Mailers

Wyoming candidates who are targets of a recent wave of mudslinging political mailers, text messages and phone calls say they cross the line. They claim the campaign materials are deliberately misleading and outright libelous.

Leo WolfsonJuly 22, 2024

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris

Biden Out: Barrasso Says Exit Is Proof Dems “Admitting Failures Of Last Four Years”

Wyoming's congressional delegation said they weren't surprised with Biden's announcement Sunday to drop out of the race. Sen. Barrasso said the Democrats have "admitted their failures of the last four years" while Harriet Hageman said Biden has "no business running a popsicle stand."

Leo WolfsonJuly 21, 2024

An information screen informs travelers that train information is not running due to the global technical outage at Canal Street subway station on July 19, 2024, in New York City. Businesses and transport worldwide were affected by a global technology outage that was attributed to a software update issued by CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity firm whose software is used by many industries around the world.

Dozens Of Wyoming Government Agencies Hit In Global Cybersecurity Crash

A global crash of cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike on Friday wreaked havoc on governments and systems worldwide, including the state of Wyoming. The glitch impacted the 49 executive branch agencies, including the governor's office.

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

Wyoming Legislature Explores Using State Lands For Affordable Housing

The Regulatory Reduction Task Force advanced a bill on Thursday that would allow Wyoming to lease and sell its land for affordable housing projects. State governments in Colorado, Washington, and New Mexico have done the same thing through private-public partnerships.

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

Laramie State Senate Candidate Calls Out Opponent For Soft Stance On Gun Control

Senate Dist. 10 GOP candidate Keith Kennedy is accusing his Laramie opponent Gary Crum of being in the “squishy middle” on Second Amendment issues in Wyoming. Although Crum wouldn't comment, his website says he is in favor of "responsible gun control policies."

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

Former first lady Melania Trump and members of the Trump family join Republican presidential nominee, former U.S. President Donald Trump on stage after he officially accepted the Republican presidential nomination on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 18, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Barrasso Sits With Trump Family At Nomination, Delegation Thrilled With Speech

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso sat in Donald Trump’s family box at the Fiserv Forum before the former president gave his speech Thursday. Barrasso said Trump commended his efforts on grilling the director of the Secret Service over her agency’s handling of Saturday’s rally.

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

Wyoming Democrats Split On Whether President Biden Should Stay In Race

While Wyoming Democratic chairman Joe Barbuto said he is supporting President Biden to stay in the presidential race because he's done a "phenomenal job," other Wyoming Democrats like Cheyenne's Marcie Kindred says it's time for Joe to go.

Leo WolfsonJuly 18, 2024

Barrasso Chases Down Secret Service Head About Attack on Trump, Demands Answers

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso chased down and confronted the head of the Secret Service on Wednesday demanding answers to security breakdowns that allowed an assassination attempt on former President Trump.

Leo WolfsonJuly 18, 2024

Why Won't Anyone Debate This Year? They Don't Trust Who's Hosting It.

There’s a trend among Wyoming candidates running for office to not attend debates hosted by organizations they don't trust-- like the League of Women Voters in Fremont County. Candidates don't believe they are as non-partisan as the group says.

Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck Gray wants Wyoming to divest itself of investments and business dealings with China.

Florida Group Influences Wyoming Election, ESG Rules With Chuck Gray’s Help

A trove of emails show that Secretary of State Chuck Gray pushed forward bills and rules on elections and ESG over the past two years that were almost identical to the model legislation brought to him by a Florida lobbying group.

Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2024

Emergency responders evacuate Schwahn hours after he got bit by a rattlesnake on Heart Mountain.

Powell Baseball Player Set To Return After Suffering Life-Threatening Rattlesnake Bite

Powell baseball player Jhett Schwahn was deep in the backcountry when he was bit by a rattlesnake. It took a rescue helicopter 2 1/2 hours to get to him. By that time, his legs were numb and he was unable to communicate.

Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2024

Hageman’s Primary Opponent Knows He’s A Long Shot But Believes She Needs Challenger

Casper attorney Steve Helling has no illusions about his chances of beating Wyoming Rep. Harriet Hageman in the upcoming Republican primary election, but he still believes it's the right thing to do so voters can have a choice.

Leo WolfsonJuly 16, 2024

Chuck Gray Announces Wyoming GOP Delegates Vote Unanimously For Trump

Wearing an oversized cowboy hat, Wyoming Sec. of State Chuck Gray on Monday announced at the Republican National Convention that all of the state's 29 delegates were cast for former President Donald Trump.

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) and his wife Usha Chilukuri Vance celebrate as he is nominated for the office of Vice President alongside Ohio Delegate Bernie Moreno on the first day of the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 15, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Wyoming Congressional Delegation Excited About Trump’s Running Mate Pick, JD Vance

Wyoming's congressional delegation said they were pleased with former President Trump's decision to pick JD Vance as his running mate. Harriet Hageman said she "couldn't wait" to see him debate Kamala Harris.

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

File photo of former President Trump in Casper on May 28, 2022

Barrasso, Lummis Applaud Dismissal Of Trump’s Classified Docs Case

U.S. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis celebrated the dismissal of a classified documents case against former President Trump on Monday, saying they had always viewed the allegations as a politically motivated attack by the Justice Department.

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

A person writes a message on a Get Well Soon poster board during a vigil for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at Zeidler Union Square on July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Wyoming Delegation Hopes America Will Come Together After Assassination Attempt

Wyoming's congressional delegation on Sunday told Cowboy State Daily they hope the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump over the weekend will cause the country to come together.

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

Paul Terry takes in Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, one of the park's most popular and colorful attractions.

Decades After Visiting As A Kid, Cheyenne Man Gets Wish For Yellowstone Return

Paul Terry visited Yellowstone National Park as a kid and always longed to return, but never did. That is until this week, when the 78-year-old Cheyenne man had his wish granted by AARP.

Leo WolfsonJuly 14, 2024

Detective: Coin Shop Suspect, Neighborhood Not Searched After 2015 Double Murder

A Cheyenne police detective testified during a Friday hearing that the man now suspected of killing two men during a 2015 robbery wasn’t searched at the time. He also testified the neighborhood around The Coin Shop also wasn’t searched.

Leo WolfsonJuly 12, 2024

Former Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder walks out of the Laramie County courthouse and government complex in downtown Cheyenne after a court hearing.

Dept. Of Education, Former Agency Head Must Pay For Illegally Withholding Records

A judge ruled Wednesday that the Wyoming Department of Education and former Superintendent of Public Instruction Brian Schroeder have to each pay $700 for illegally withholding public records.

Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2024

Republican candidates for Cheyenne state Senate gather on stage Wednesday evening, July 10, 2024, for a political forum.

Cheyenne State Senate Candidates Divided Over Gigantic Facebook (Meta) Data Center

Republicans running for state Senate Districts 4 and 6 clashed Wednesday night over a massive $800 Million Meta (Facebook) data center. The 715,000-square-foot facility will be built in south Cheyenne.

Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2024

A farther right conservative movement has grown in Wyoming to the point where the Wyoming Freedom Caucus is within reach of claiming control of the state House. It's pushed by a mix of longtime political influencers and new candidates. Clockwise from top left: Wyoming GOP Chairman Frank Enthrone; J.R. Riggins, candidate for the House; another house candidate, Kevin Campbell; Jayme Lien, who's running to represent Casper; a Wyoming Freedom Caucus display; and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman talks during a political rally Sunday, July 7, 2024.

Conservative Movement: Freedom Caucus Could Gain Control Of House In ’24

The Wyoming Freedom Caucus has been growing in numbers and influence. Now the group, and candidates aligned with it, feel 2024 could be the year it gains control of the Wyoming House.

Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2024

Cody LDS Temple Opponents Sue, Claim City Is Stonewalling Turning Over Records

A group that has already sued to stop a planned gigantic 101-foot-tall LDS temple in Cody now claims the city is stonewalling on delivering public records.

Leo WolfsonJuly 10, 2024

The 2022 Republican House primary debate in Wyoming was covered by media around the world.

Snubbed By Hageman And Barrasso, No WyomingPBS Debates For Primary

John Barrasso and Harriet Hageman have told WyomingPBS they won’t participate in the station’s televised debates this year. That means the station won’t have congressional primary debates.

Leo WolfsonJuly 10, 2024

Tyler Lindholm runs the Wyoming chapter of Americans for Prosperity.

Wyoming Chapter Of National Libertarian Group Raises Eyebrows With Endorsements

The Wyoming arm of Libertarian-leaning Americans For Prosperity is raising eyebrows with its primary endorsements. At issue: the group believes civility as a state legislator is an important trait.

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

Dwight Brockman was one of two men killed in a 2015 robbery at The Coin Shop in Cheyenne. His brother, Paul, said the arrest of a suspect nine years later brings a sense of closure.

Brother Of 2015 Cheyenne Coin Shop Murder Victim Says Arrest Brings Waves Of Emotion

The brother of one of two men killed during the 2015 robbery of The Coin Shop in Cheyenne says he’s gone through waves of emotion since an arrest was made two weeks ago. “I cried and cried and cried,” he said.

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

Mailers from Make Liberty Win sent out to potential Wyoming voters identify Darin McCann and Marlene Brady as incumbent state representatives. They're not.

First Entirely Out-Of-State-Based Lobbying Effort Of Wyoming Political Season Launched

An out-of-state group called Make Liberty Win is blanketing Wyoming with text messages and emails lobbying for conservative candidates. Many legislators say the group is pushing misleading and wrong information.

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

U.S. Rep. Hariett Hageman, R-Wyoming, at a political rally in Casper, Wyoming, on Sunday, July 7, 2024.

Hageman Lobbies Trump To Help Stop Drug, Human Trafficking On Reservations

Harriet Hageman said Sunday that she spoke with former President Trump about thwarting drug and human trafficking cartels on reservations. She said the problem is a direct byproduct of President Biden’s immigration policies.

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

Can Mark Gordon Run For A 3rd Term? Supreme Court Would Likely Have To Decide

Secretary of State Chuck Gray drew attention Sunday when he said he wouldn't certify Gov. Mark Gordon’s candidacy if he runs for a third term. Whether the governor can legally run or not is murky. And his office won't say if he's considering it.

Leo WolfsonJuly 08, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck Gray at a political rally in Casper on July 7, 2024. At the rally, he said if Gov. Mark Gordon were to run for and win a third term in office in 2026, he wouldn't certify the election.

Chuck Gray Says He Won’t Certify Candidacy If Gordon Seeks 3rd Term

Secretary of State Chuck Gray said Sunday that if Gov. Mark Gordon wanted to run for a third consecutive term that he wouldn’t certify his candidacy because he believes the governor is bound by term limits. He made the statement during a Sunday political event in Casper.

Leo WolfsonJuly 08, 2024

Wyoming’s Bucking Horse Logo Dates Back To WWI — And It’s Not Steamboat

There are few things that say “Wyoming” more than its bucking horse and rider logo. What’s not as well-known is its origin. It was drawn during World War I by a Wyoming artist fighting in the war. And it wasn't based on Steamboat.

Leo WolfsonJuly 07, 2024

Victor Miller is the human behind VIC, who's running for Cheyenne mayor and is Wyoming's first AI candidate.

AI Candidate Can Run For Cheyenne Mayor, But Won’t Be On Ballot

Laramie County Clerk Debra Lee said Friday that VIC, an AI candidate for Cheyenne Mayor, can continue its run for office. However, VIC can’t appear on the ballot and instead will be listed as Victor Miller, the human behind the campaign.

Leo WolfsonJuly 06, 2024

No Bond For Man Accused Of Gunning Down 2 Men In 2015 Cheyenne Coin Shop Robbery

The man accused of killing two men in the 2015 robbery of The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne will stay in jail without bond. Douglas Smith had his initial hearing in court on Friday.

Leo WolfsonJuly 05, 2024

Trump Indicates Support Of Military Tribunal For Liz Cheney

Former President Donald Trump has rekindled his ongoing feud with former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney. On Friday, he shared a post calling for a military tribunal for Cheney, something usually reserved for war criminals.

Leo WolfsonJuly 05, 2024

Cody Legislator Concerned Immigrant Resource Center In Jackson Could Lead To Voter Fraud

The presence of a new immigrant resource center in Jackson has state Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, concerned that the facility could assist immigrants with illegally voting and receiving welfare benefits.

Leo WolfsonJuly 04, 2024

Douglas Smith has been arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the 2015 killing of two people at The Coin Shop in Cheyenne.

Suspect In 2015 Double Murder At Cheyenne Coin Shop Back In Wyoming

The man accused of killing two people in 2015 at The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne is back in Wyoming. Douglas Smith has been extradited from California and will have his first court hearing Friday.

Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2024

Laramie voters fill out their ballots during the 2022 Wyoming primary.

Wyoming Voter Registrations At Eight-Year Low

Voter registrations in Wyoming are at their lowest in eight years as of Monday, with less than two months before the state’s primary election. Numbers usually drop when there's not a competitive race at the top of the ticket in Wyoming.

Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2024

Push To Ditch Ballot Machines For Hand Counts In Wyoming Gaining Steam

A push to ditch electronic ballot counting machines in favor of hand counts in Wyoming elections is gaining steam. And it has Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s full support.

Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2024

Bradley Davis with Meta speaks during a press conference announcing a new Cheyenne data center Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Meta (Facebook) Formally Announces Massive $800M Data Center In Cheyenne

Social media giant Meta (aka Facebook) formally unveiled plans Tuesday for a massive $800 million, 715,000-square-foot Cheyenne data center. They say at the peak of construction it will generate more than 1,000 jobs.

Leo WolfsonJuly 02, 2024

A selection of Ford F-150 Lightning electric trucks at Ken Garff Ford in Cheyenne.

Wyoming Sues Biden Administration Over ‘Overreaching’ EV Mandates

Gov. Mark Gordon announced Monday that Wyoming will join 25 other states in a lawsuit against President Joe Biden’s administration. This time it’s over new EV standards that require auto manufacturers produce electric vehicles.

Leo WolfsonJuly 02, 2024

State Rep. Jeremy Haroldosn, R-Wheatland, and Guernsey Fire Chief Jeff Thomas.

Reid Rasner’s Bodyguard Runs Against Freedom Caucus Incumbent In Platte County

Guernsey Fire Chief Jeff Thomas, who also works for U.S. Senate candidate Reid Rasner as a bodyguard, is running against Platte County Freedom Caucus incumbent Jeremy Haroldson for the Wyoming House.

Leo WolfsonJuly 01, 2024

A homeless camp near Carey Avenue at West 3rd Street and Deming Drive along Crow Creek in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Wyoming Cities Say Supreme Court Ruling Gives Freedom To Deal With Homeless

City officials from two Wyoming cities struggling with growing homeless populations say they’re pleased with a Friday decision by the U.S. Supreme Court that gives cities freedom to regulate the issue how they want.

Leo WolfsonJune 29, 2024

Exie Brown, lead singer of country band Southern Fried, has adopted a more conservative image for his run for hte Wyoming House.

Southern Fryed Lead Singer Cuts Long Hair, Hides Tats For Wyoming House Run

People around Cheyenne know Exie Brown as “Russ,” the lead singer of popular country band Southern Fryed. Now he’s ditched his long hair and covered his tattoos to challenge longtime Wyoming House incumbent Landon Brown.

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Oil Field Worker Charged With Child Porn Says He’s ‘Disgusted’ With Himself

A Casper-area oil field worker who faces eight felony charges for having and distributing child porn allegedly told investigators that fantasies about sex acts with children are like “an itch in my head” and that he’s “disgusted” with himself.

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Long lines at a polling place in Cheyenne during the 2022 general election.

Chuck Gray Spars With Clerk Over $132K In Election Equipment Before Last-Minute OK

It took months of arguing back and forth with Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray, but Laramie County will get $132,650 in new election equipment after Gray had a last-minute change of heart and reversed his initial denial.

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

President Biden and former President Trump at the first presidential debate on Thursday, June 27, 2024

Hageman Says Jill Biden Guilty Of ‘Elder Abuse’ For Letting Joe Debate

Reacting to Thursday’s first 2024 presidential debate, Harriet Hageman said President Joe Biden’s performance was so bad that first lady Jill Biden is guilty of “elder abuse” for “rolling President Biden out on stage to engage in a battle of wits while unarmed.”

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Wyoming Has Fastest Growing Elderly Population In Nation

A new state demographic report released Thursday shows Wyoming has the fastest growing population of elderly people, age 65 and older, in the nation. The state’s oldest county is Hot Springs County followed by Johnson, Platte, and Niobrara counties.

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Suggested Wyoming license plate from PETA.

PETA Wants Wyoming To Use Dinosaur Instead Of Bucking Bronco On License Plate

Wyomingites weren't impressed with a demand from PETA on Thursday to replace the bucking bronco on the state license plate to a dinosaur head. PETA says rodeos are cruel. In response, one man in Cheyenne said PETA can "kiss my ass."

Leo WolfsonJune 27, 2024

Former House District 18 Rep. Tom Crank, left, is challenging incumbent Rep. Scott Heiner, R-Green River, for the fourth time in eight years.

Déjà Vu: Heiner, Crank Face Off For Wyoming House Seat For 4th Time in 8 Years

The ballot in southwest Wyoming will look familiar for the Republican primary for House District 18 with current and former legislators Scott Heiner and Tom Crank facing off for the fourth time in eight years.

Leo WolfsonJune 27, 2024