Leo Wolfson
Leo Wolfson is the State Government and Politics Reporter for Cowboy State Daily and is based in Cheyenne. He is responsible for covering Wyoming politics on a federal and statewide level.
Leo led Cowboy State Daily's coverage of the 2022 Wyoming primary election, including the highly contentious race between former congresswoman Liz Cheney and her successor U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman. He also managed CSD's coverage of the 2023 State Legislature, which was by far the most extensive and timely media coverage of a legislative session in the state's history.
Before joining Cowboy State Daily, Leo was a general assignment reporter for the Cody Enterprise Newspaper in Cody from 2018-2022. Prior to that, he reported for a suburban newspaper outside Denver.
Latest from Leo Wolfson
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
"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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
$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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
“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
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
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
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 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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
"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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Freedom Caucus Says Gordon Suing Over Coal Rule A Win For Them
Freedom Caucus member Jeremy Haroldson says Mark Gordon’s announcement that he has hired a top law firm to fight a federal coal rule is a win for the Freedom Caucus because they wanted a special session to push the governor to sue.
Leo WolfsonJune 26, 2024
Suspect In 2015 Cheyenne Coin Shop Double Murder Was First To Call 911
The man who Cheyenne Police arrested on Tuesday for the 2015 double homicide at The Coin Shop was the one who initially called 911 after the crime had been committed. An affidavit shows the suspect tripped himself up talking about his alleged alibi.
Leo WolfsonJune 26, 2024
Will Freedom Caucus Primary Wins In Idaho & South Dakota Spill Over To Wyoming?
Although the Freedom Caucus picked up victories in both Idaho and South Dakota, political pundits in Wyoming disagree over the significance. Some believe it's an inevitable trend while others aren't so sure.
Leo WolfsonJune 26, 2024
Arrest Made In 2015 Double Murder At Cheyenne Coin Shop
An arrest was made Tuesday in the unsolved 2015 double-murder at The Coin Shop in downtown Cheyenne. Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins said the crime "was a wound on our community’s soul.”
Leo WolfsonJune 25, 2024
Where Does Wyoming Gambling Go Next? $2 Billion Industry At A Crossroads
Gambling in Wyoming has rocketed over the past decade to become a $2 billion a year industry. Does Wyoming go full throttle and follow Montana or will the state take a more moderate approach?
Leo WolfsonJune 25, 2024
Cheyenne Teen Avoids Attempted First-Degree Murder Charge With Plea Deal
A Cheyenne teen will avoid prosecution on an attempted first-degree murder charge after a deal was struck having him plead guilty to aggravated assault on Monday.
Leo WolfsonJune 24, 2024
Fate Of Wyoming’s Trans Treatments For Kids Law Hinges On U.S. Supreme Court
The U.S. Supreme Court announced Monday it will hear a case determining the constitutionality of Tennessee's ban on transgender surgeries for kids, which will likely determine the future of a new and very similar Wyoming law.
Leo WolfsonJune 24, 2024
Big Horn Basin Parents Push For Wyoming’s First Online Charter School
A Big Horn Basin group is pushing to have a charter school approved this summer. It would become the first charter school in the northwestern part of Wyoming and the state’s first online-only charter school.
Leo WolfsonJune 22, 2024
If Charlie Scott Wins Re-Election, He Will Be One Of The Longest Serving Legislators In U.S.
Casper Republican Charlie Scott, the longest serving member of the Wyoming Legislature, is running for reelection for his 14th term in the state Senate. If he wins, he’ll be among the longest serving legislators in the U.S.
Leo WolfsonJune 21, 2024
Owners of Iconic Cody Restaurant Accused Of Threatening To Kill Customers
The owners of the iconic Cassie’s Steakhouse in Cody are in trouble after allegedly threatening to kill a pair of customers Wednesday and then kicking a police officer in the head.
Leo WolfsonJune 21, 2024
Wyoming Only State Without Immunity For Drug Overdoses, But Bill Would Change That
Wyoming is the only state without a “good Samaritan” law that grants immunity from prosecution for illegal drug users who report drug overdoses. That could change under a bill advanced Thursday by a legislative committee.
Leo WolfsonJune 20, 2024
Who Knew? The Bald Eagle, Symbol Of Freedom, Isn’t The Official National Bird
You may not know that while the bald eagle has been adopted as America’s symbol of liberty and freedom since the 1780s, it’s not the official national bird. Cynthia Lummis introduced a bill Thursday to finally make it official.
Leo WolfsonJune 20, 2024
Mark Gordon And Chuck Gray Spar Again, This Time Over Wheatland's Failing Water Tank
Gov. Mark Gordon and Secretary of State Chuck Gray had another verbal altercation Thursday. This time, the two exchanged words over Gordon’s track record on giving money to Wheatland for its failing water tower.
Leo WolfsonJune 20, 2024
Rock Springs Republican Candidates Battle Over Who's More Conservative
State Sen. John Kolb, R-Rock Springs, has a Republican primary opponent who said he’s the true conservative in their Republican primary race. But Kolb says, "My background isn’t a guy who fell off the hay wagon yesterday."
Leo WolfsonJune 20, 2024
Wyoming Still Fights Stigma Of Suicide 70 Years After US Sen. Lester Hunt’s Death
Lander state senator Cale Case used the 70th anniversary of the death of former U.S. Sen. Lester Hunt, who killed himself in 1954 amid pressure from McCarthyism, to highlight how Wyoming is still fighting the stigma of suicide.
Leo WolfsonJune 19, 2024
Company Threatens To Pull Plug On Cheyenne Mayoral AI Candidate
Despite a threat from the company that runs ChatGPT which designed Wyoming’s first artificial intelligence political candidate, VIC (Virtual Integrated Citizen) is still active and campaigning for Cheyenne mayor.
Leo WolfsonJune 19, 2024
Teton Pass Could Be Paved And Re-Open By Middle Of Next Week
The Wyoming Department of Transportation told Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday that a newly constructed detour of the collapsed section of Highway 22 over Teton Pass could be paved and ready to drive on by the middle of next week.
Leo WolfsonJune 18, 2024
Wyoming’s Statewide Cold Case Database Close To Be Launched In Coming Months
The commander of the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation told legislators on Tuesday that a new statewide cold-case database will be launched in the coming months. There are approximately 150 cold cases in Wyoming with some dating back more than 50 years.
Leo WolfsonJune 18, 2024
Biden’s Transportation Czar Buttigieg In Wyoming To Hype Infrastructure Act
During a visit to Cheyenne on Monday, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg hyped the Biden administration’s $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Act and Wyoming’s $3.8 billion share of it.
Leo WolfsonJune 18, 2024
Fred Parady, Former House Speaker And Wyoming GOP Chairman, Dies
Fred Parady, a former speaker of the Wyoming House and chair of the Wyoming Republican Party, died over the weekend at the age of 69. Former legislators praised Parady as being one of the smartest and hard working people they had ever met.
Leo WolfsonJune 17, 2024
Bill Winney Has Lost Six Times For Wyoming Legislature; Will 7th Try Be The Charm?
Bondurant resident Bill Winney has run unsuccessfully for the Wyoming Legislature six times since 2010, but that isn’t stopping the Republican from running again. This time he's challenging Albert Sommers for a state Senate seat.
Leo WolfsonJune 17, 2024
In Gillette, Challenger May Have More Name Recognition State House Incumbent
The House District 32 Republican primary race between state Rep. Ken Clouston, R-Gillette, and George Dunlap brings a certain amount of intrigue due to the local name recognition that each candidate has.
Leo WolfsonJune 14, 2024
Led By Barrasso, Trump Gets A Birthday Cake That Was All Wyoming
Invited by Sen. John Barrasso, former President Trump celebrated his birthday Thursday with Senate Republicans, complete with a cake that was all Wyoming bought and delivered. “It was all Wyoming,” Barrasso told Cowboy State Daily.
Leo WolfsonJune 14, 2024
Wyoming Dems Blast Hageman With Claim She Voted To ‘Defund NATO’
Harriet Hageman says the Wyoming Democratic Party is full of it by claiming she voted to “defund NATO” because she only voted to cut $433 million for one program, not the entire $860 billion the U.S. has committed to NATO.
Leo WolfsonJune 14, 2024
Report: Wyoming’s 385% Spike In Abortions Since 2019 Is Highest In The Nation
A report by a pro-choice research organization shows that Wyoming has the highest percentage increase of abortions from 2019-2023 at 385%, something some pro-life legislators attribute to past underreporting of the procedure.
Leo WolfsonJune 14, 2024
Cheyenne City Clerk Says Artificial Intelligence Candidate For Mayor Is OK For Election
The city clerk of Cheyenne on Thursday said she disagreed with Secretary of State Chuck Gray over the legitimacy of a mayoral candidate who is powered by artificial intelligence. She said VIC is legit and can participate in the city's election.
Leo WolfsonJune 13, 2024
Tempers Heat Up Over Illegal Rock Springs Political Signs Ahead Of Primary
An Rock Springs ordinance bans political signs in public places before June 20, but that hasn’t stopped them from going up. That has local Republicans and Democrats upset over a rule the mayor admits should’ve never happened.
Leo WolfsonJune 13, 2024
Wyoming Delegation Pushes For Federal Money For Quick Teton Pass Fix
Wyoming's congressional delegation asked Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Wednesday to approve emergency relief money to repair Teton Pass quickly. An estimated 40% of Teton County’s workforce travels across the pass to get to work.
Leo WolfsonJune 12, 2024
Wyoming Legislators Want Gordon To Call Special Session To Fight Biden Coal Rule
Sheridan state Rep. Mark Jennings and other legislators want Gov. Mark Gordon to call a special session of the Wyoming Legislature to focus money and efforts into taking legal action against Biden rule to end Powder River Basin coal by 2041.
Leo WolfsonJune 12, 2024
Gillette Man Claims Wyoming Property Tax Petition Collected Illegally
A Gillette resident is accusing organizers of a recently submitted petition for a property tax initiative of illegally collecting signatures at post offices and county courthouses around Wyoming. Secretary of State Chuck Gray says his complaint is bogus.
Leo WolfsonJune 12, 2024
Chuck Gray Wants To Shut Down Wyoming’s First AI Candidate
Secretary of State Chuck Gray says the campaign of Wyoming’s first artificial intelligent political candidate should be shut down because a computer-generated persona isn’t a qualified elector or registered voter.
Leo WolfsonJune 12, 2024
Legislators Grill BLM Over Sale Of 300 Acres To PacifiCorp In Southwest Wyoming
Spurred by recent controversy over the BLM's proposed Rock Springs Resource Management plan, Wyoming legislators Monday grilled the agency over the sale of 300 acres of public land in Sweetwater County to PacifiCorp.
Leo WolfsonJune 11, 2024
Meet VIC, Wyoming’s First AI Candidate Running For Cheyenne Mayor
Meet VIC, an artificial intelligence-powered candidate for Cheyenne Mayor that is Wyoming’s first AI-powered political hopeful. The man behind VIC, Victor Miller, says if elected VIC will make all decisions related to the office.
Leo WolfsonJune 10, 2024
Chuck Gray Joins Supreme Court Fight Over Biden’s Voter Registration Order
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray has joined a U.S. Supreme Court filing fighting President Biden’s get-out-the-vote executive order. He said turning "federal agencies into get-out-the-vote operations is not only unconstitutional; it is outrageously wrong.”
Leo WolfsonJune 10, 2024
Drinking Wyoming: The Blanca Tatanka Is Reimagining Cody’s Cocktail Culture
The Blanca Tatanka is relatively new to the Cody, Wyoming, bar scene, but it’s anything but your typical Western bar. It’s reimagining Cody’s cocktail culture with a Buffalo Bill meets Matthew McConaughey vibe.
Leo WolfsonJune 09, 2024
Great Food, Be Your Own Boss: Why Wyoming’s Food Truck Scene Is Exploding
There are many reasons why Wyoming’s food truck scene is exploding as a hot dining trend. Near the top are customers seeking out great, unique food and truck owners who can be their own bosses.
Leo WolfsonJune 07, 2024
Former Cheyenne Democrat Takes On Three-Time Incumbent In Republican Primary
Cheyenne resident Thomas Lear was a registered Democrat in Wyoming as recently as February, but now he’s a Republican running against three-time incumbent Clarence Styvar for House District 12.
Leo WolfsonJune 07, 2024
Reid Rasner Tells Hageman To Cease And Desist Her Demand That He Cease And Desist
Long shot U.S. Senate candidate Reid Rasner has responded to Harriet Hageman’s demand he cease and desist using her image on social media by telling her to cease and desist her demands. The Hageman campaign said he's not a serious candidate.
Leo WolfsonJune 06, 2024
Move To Wyoming And Then Instantly Run For Legislature Is A Real Trend
Pamela Mertens moved to Wyoming in August 2023 from Florida and now she's running for House District 56. Tom Olmstead is running for Senate District 20 after moving from Colorado three years ago. They aren't anomalies. It's a trend.
Leo WolfsonJune 06, 2024
Chuck Gray Tells County Clerks They Can’t Offer Ballot Drop Boxes, Clerks Disagree
Wyoming county clerks on Wednesday said they don't have to follow Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s directive to quit using ballot boxes, despite Gray saying they're illegal.
Leo WolfsonJune 06, 2024
Campbell County Schools Propose 1-Year Sports Sit-Out For Transfer Students
The Campbell County School District is considering a proposal that would give it the toughest public school transfer policy in the state — a 1-year ban on varsity sports participation for transfer students.
Leo WolfsonJune 05, 2024
Cheyenne House Race A Tale Of Three Very Different Wyoming Republicans
The Wyoming House District 8 race features three very different Republicans: Incumbent Dave Zwonitzer, a Freedom Caucus supporter who calls Zwonitzer a “RINO” and a 22-year-old newcomer to Wyoming who has been here for 18 months.
Leo WolfsonJune 05, 2024
Wyoming Delegation Says Biden’s Border Order A Desperate ‘Election Year Stunt’
President Joe Biden’s aggressive executive order Tuesday clamping down on the southern U.S. border has angered congress across the board — Democrats and Republicans. Wyoming’s delegation says Biden “panicked” by making an “election year stunt.”
Leo WolfsonJune 04, 2024
New Law Would Allow Deadly Force By Wyoming National Guard In Some Cases
Wyoming legislators were asked during a Tuesday committee meeting to consider closing a legal loophole that allows some Wyoming National Guard members to be prosecuted for using deadly force while protecting certain military assets.
Leo WolfsonJune 04, 2024
Wyoming Property Tax Refund Hits Record But Still Not Enough Relief, Some Say
An expanded property tax refund program where eligible homeowners could receive back as much as 75% of their previous year’s tax bill led to record participation, but many legislators say it’s not enough relief.
Leo WolfsonJune 04, 2024
Legislature Still Wants EVs To Pay Their Way, Resurrects Charging Tax
Saying electric and hybrid vehicles need to pay their own way for the wear and tear they put on Wyoming roads, legislators are resurrecting a bill to tax fast-charging stations.
Leo WolfsonJune 03, 2024
Cheyenne’s Battling Republican Cousins Meet In Round 2 For Wyoming House Seat
One of the most intriguing Wyoming Legislature races this summer will be for House District 44 in Cheyenne, where two cousins run against each other again, along with another former state legislator.
Leo WolfsonJune 03, 2024
Wyoming Democrats Nervous About ‘Threat’ From ‘Dangerous’ Freedom Caucus
At its state convention Saturday, the Wyoming Democratic Party called the Freedom Caucus a “threat” to Wyoming and a “dangerous” far right group that needs to be reined in.
Leo WolfsonJune 01, 2024
Wyoming’s Primary Election Is Set: 167 Candidates In 72 Contested Races
With the 5 p.m. Friday deadline for filing to run in the August primary election in. Wyoming past, the field is set: 167 candidates in 72 contested races.
Leo WolfsonJune 01, 2024
Removal Of Casper Doc From Medical Board Stokes Freedom Caucus Outrage
News of a Casper doctor being forced from the Wyoming Board of Medicine because of his views on transgender treatments for minors has outraged the Freedom Caucus. But a former board member says the group’s anger is hypocritical.
Leo WolfsonMay 31, 2024
Former Libertarian Runs As Republican To Win Back Wyoming House Seat
Marshall Burt, a Libertarian who was the first third-party candidate to be elected to the Wyoming Legislature in more than a century before being ousted from the House in 2022 is now running as a Republican to win back the seat.
Leo WolfsonMay 31, 2024
Lower Wyoming Property Taxes Could Mean Higher Sales Tax, Removing Exemptions
A Wyoming legislative committee is studying how the state can maintain its current services while lowering property taxes. The reality is, that might not be able to happen without also raising sales tax rates and/or removing exemptions.
Leo WolfsonMay 31, 2024
44,000 Signatures Turned In To Put 50% Property Tax Cut On Wyoming Ballot
A monthslong effort to gather signatures to put a ballot initiative on the Wyoming ballot came to a head Thursday with 44,650 signatures turned in to the Secretary of State’s office. If successful, it would cut residential property taxes by 50%.
Leo WolfsonMay 31, 2024
Wyoming Delegation & Governor Blast Trump Conviction
Wyoming’s congressional delegation and Gov. Mark Gordon blasted the conviction of former President Donald Trump on Thursday. Rep. Harriet Hageman said the court case was a "desperate gasp to win a presidential election that they will ultimately lose."
Leo WolfsonMay 30, 2024
Wyoming Medical Society Criticizes Ousted Doctor For 'Misleading' Emails
In the wake of the news that Gov. Gordon ousted a doctor from the Board of Medicine for his vocal support of a ban on trans treatment of minors, the Wyoming Medical Society said the claim the group has been overtaken by "extremely liberal" members is not true.
Leo WolfsonMay 30, 2024
Conservative Firebrand Bouchard Won’t Run For Reelection To Wyoming Senate
Conservative firebrand state Sen. Anthony Bouchard of Cheyenne won’t run for reelection to the Wyoming Senate, but there’s a crowd of candidates who want his seat.
Leo WolfsonMay 30, 2024
Ballooning Property Valuations, Tax Bills Not Unique To Wyoming
Ballooning property taxes and how to mitigate them has dominated discussion in the Wyoming Legislature in recent years, and it’s not unique to Wyoming, as Cowboy State property tax bills are reflecting larger trends in the West and United States.
Leo WolfsonMay 29, 2024
Skiing On Memorial Day Weekend in Wyoming? Absolutely.
While most people were planning Memorial Day barbecues, Wyoming’s hardcore skiers and snowboarders were still getting some turns in with about a half-foot of fresh high-elevation snow, proving there’s no offseason for those who really want it.
Leo WolfsonMay 29, 2024
Bob Nicholas Will Run For 8th Term In House Against Head Of Wyoming GOP
Longtime Wyoming legislator Bob Nicholas of Cheyenne has announced he’s running for an eighth term in office. The executive director of the Wyoming Republican Party, Kathy Russell, is challenging him for the seat.
Leo WolfsonMay 28, 2024
Casper Doctor Forced Off Board of Medicine For Support Of Trans Treatment Ban
Gov. Mark Gordon forced a Casper doctor to resign from the Wyoming Board of Medicine for openly supporting a bill banning transgender treatments and surgeries on minors in Wyoming. The governor reluctantly signed the bill into law.
Leo WolfsonMay 28, 2024
Sheriff Says Honor Wyoming’s Out-Of-State Organizer Has Ties To Bundy Standoff
A Wyoming native and longtime sheriff of Spokane, Washington, says he’s very familiar with the lead organizer of the murky new political group Honor Wyoming, including that he has ties to the 2016 Bundy standoff in Oregon.
Leo WolfsonMay 25, 2024
Governor Gordon Blasts Back At Latest ‘Sniping’ From Freedom Caucus
Gov. Mark Gordon offered a blistering response Thursday to a Freedom Caucus letter sent to him earlier this week demanding he sue the federal government over a new ban on coal production.
Leo WolfsonMay 24, 2024
Fremont County Pro-Life Champion Has Challenger For Republican Primary
Pro-life champion and three-time incumbent state Sen. Tim Salazar has a Republican primary opponent in Shoshoni rancher Elizabeth Philp.
Leo WolfsonMay 24, 2024
White Supremacist Who Wants Legal Child Porn Doing Business Through Wyoming LLC
A globally recognized white supremacist from Denmark who has pushed for the legalization of child pornography is doing business through a Wyoming LLC he recently registered. Wyoming is often criticized for its loose business filing laws.
Leo WolfsonMay 24, 2024
Fed Up With Fallout From California Energy Policies, Wyoming Sues
Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday announced Wyoming has joined a 19-state lawsuit led by Alabama asking the U.S. Supreme Court to declare the energy policies of five Democratic-majority states, including California, unconstitutional.
Leo WolfsonMay 23, 2024
Cheyenne Legislator Dan Zwonitzer Runs For 11th Term In Wyoming House
State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, a Cheyenne Republican, is the longest serving member of the Wyoming House and wants to keep that going, running for reelection to an 11th term.
Leo WolfsonMay 23, 2024
Cody Is Not The Only Community Suing Over LDS Temples
The scenario that’s played out in Cody over the past year of locals suing to halt plans to build an LDS temple is happening in cities all over the United States.
Leo WolfsonMay 23, 2024
Prominent Wyoming Politicos Go Head-To-Head In Sheridan Legislative Battle
Two well-known names in Wyoming politics — Thomas Kelly and Gail Symons — are running against each other to represent Sheridan in the Wyoming Legislature.
Leo WolfsonMay 22, 2024
Freedom Caucus Says Gordon Must Fight Biden Coal Ban Now — Not Later
Sixteen members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus sent a letter to Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday urging him to sue now — not later — the Biden administration’s BLM over a new rule that would end coal production in Wyoming 2041.
Leo WolfsonMay 22, 2024
As Chinese Mine Clears Out, Legislators Say Crypto Still Welcome In Wyoming
As Chinese bitcoin mine MineOne sells off its Cheyenne operation on the order of President Biden, Wyoming legislators say the crypto industry is still welcome here.
Leo WolfsonMay 22, 2024
Barrasso Wants To Use Unspent COVID Money To Finish Border Wall
Sen. John Barrasso introduced legislation Tuesday that would require uncommitted COVID-19 money be used to finish building former President Donald Trump’s wall along the southern U.S. border.
Leo WolfsonMay 21, 2024
Longtime Wyoming House Rivals Jennings, Crago Square Off For Senate
Two of the more prominent members of the Wyoming House — and in some ways longtime political rivals — state Reps. Mark Jennings and Barry Crago will square off against each other for the state Senate.
Leo WolfsonMay 21, 2024
Chuck Gray Strips North Korean Businesses Of Wyoming Licenses After Flagged By FBI
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Tuesday stripped three businesses of their Wyoming LLC licenses after the FBI flagged them as fronting for North Korean interests.
Leo WolfsonMay 21, 2024
Better Wyoming Group Urged Voters To Register Republican Ahead Of Deadline
Although it claims to be a nonpartisan health advocacy group, Better Wyoming sent out messaging earlier this month encouraging some of its members in some parts of the state to register as Republicans ahead of last week’s deadline.
Leo WolfsonMay 20, 2024
Independent Casper Candidate Says He's Fed Up With Jeanette Ward
Tyler Cessor, an Independent from Casper and the first third-party candidate to run for the Wyoming legislature this year, says he’s fed up with incumbent Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper.
Leo WolfsonMay 20, 2024
Murky Political Group Honor Wyoming Slowly Emerging From The Shadows
The billboards first started showing up in Cheyenne around last fall, put up by a group called Honor Wyoming. The signs chide some legislators as rodeo “clowns” and praise others as “top hands” based on their voting records.
Leo WolfsonMay 20, 2024
Wyoming Weather Scientist Goes Night-Skiing During Aurora Borealis Event
Michael Charnick is a weather scientist based in Cheyenne who captured stunning images while night-skiing at more than 11,000-feet elevation during last weekend’s vivid aurora borealis. He was on the slopes from 9:30pm to after 3am.
Leo WolfsonMay 18, 2024
Buffalo 22-Year-Old Would Be Youngest In Wyoming Legislature If She Wins
A 22-year-old woman from Buffalo is joining a crowded Republican race for to replace incumbent House District 40 Rep. Barry Crago, who’s running for the state Senate. If she wins, she’d be the youngest in the Wyoming Legislature.
Leo WolfsonMay 18, 2024
Hageman Introduces Bill To Abolish 'Woke Award' Federal Research Grants Based On DEI
Rep. Hageman introduced a bill Thursday to strip DEI requirements from the $30 billion dollars the National Institutes of Health gives in research grants to universities every year. She said grants should be based on meritocracy not gender and racial quotas.
Leo WolfsonMay 17, 2024
Two Life Sentences For Wind River Man Who Shot Neighbor In Back Of The Head
Francis Acebo was given two mandatory life sentences in prison Thursday for killing neighbor Derek Redstar Pappan by shooting him the back of the head. “Our hearts will never be the same,” said Pappan’s mother.
Leo WolfsonMay 16, 2024
Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers To Run For Senate, Has Opponent
Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers officially announced his campaign for the state Senate on Thursday. Sommers, who was first elected to the legislature in 2012, will be running against sheep rancher Laura Pearson.
Leo WolfsonMay 16, 2024
Slain Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee Honored On US Senate Floor
Sheridan police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee, who was killed in the line of duty March 1, was honored on the floor of the U.S. Senate on Wednesday. Sen. John Barrasso hailed Krinkee’s sacrifice and blasted efforts to defund police.
Leo WolfsonMay 16, 2024
2 More In Race For Anthony Bouchard’s State Senate Seat
Two more Republicans have entered an increasingly crowded GOP primary in an attempt to take the Wyoming state Senate seat held by two-time incumbent Anthony Bouchard, who hasn’t said if he’s running again. If he does, he’ll have at least four opponents.
Leo WolfsonMay 15, 2024
If You Want To Switch Parties For Wyoming Primary, The Deadline Is Wednesday
This will be the first primary in Wyoming without true crossover voting, which means Wednesday is the deadline to change party affiliation for the August election.
Leo WolfsonMay 15, 2024
Gordon Announces Wyoming Joining Lawsuit Over Biden's Title XI Rule Changes
Gov. Mark Gordon announced on Tuesday that Wyoming will be suing President Joe Biden’s administration over its new Title IX rules. Secretary of State Chuck Gray said it's about time.
Leo WolfsonMay 14, 2024
Moorcroft Mayor Upset About Getting Pushed Out of Business Council Grant
The mayor of Moorcroft is upset that a Wyoming grant program became so narrowed that his community no longer qualifies. He said the grant became a "pet project" and now only benefits the town of Sundance.
Leo WolfsonMay 14, 2024
Big Win For Barrasso As His Ban On Uranium Imports Signed Into Law
An effort spearheaded by Wyoming’s senior Sen. John Barrasso to ban Russian uranium imports was signed by President Joe Biden on Monday. He said the move “officially ended Russia’s chokehold on America’s uranium supply.”
Leo WolfsonMay 14, 2024
Torrington Woman Taps Deep Roots In Run For State House Seat Her Dad Once Held
Torrington resident Jackie Van Mark is running against incumbent state Rep. Scott Smith for House District 5, to win back a seat her dad once held. Van Mark is a 4th generation Wyomingite who comes from one of the state's original homesteading families.
Leo WolfsonMay 13, 2024
Cody Residents Opposed To Gigantic LDS Temple Outraged As Church Stages Area To Build
Cody residents who are suing to stop a humongous LDS temple in the city say they are outraged to see a crane and other construction materials staged at the site ready to start construction.
Leo WolfsonMay 11, 2024
University Of Wyoming Will Eliminate DEI Office, Keep Some Of Its Services
The University of Wyoming Board of Trustees cut the school’s highly controversial office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion on Friday while still retaining some of its services, many of which they say predate the office by decades.
Leo WolfsonMay 10, 2024
Degenfelder Blasts Chuck Gray, Says Wyoming Will Sue Over Biden Title IX Rules
Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder confirmed to Cowboy State Daily that Wyoming will sue over the Biden administration's Title IX gender rules, and blasted Secretary of State Chuck Gray for "heckling from the sidelines."
Leo WolfsonMay 10, 2024
UW Not Likely To Scrap DEI Programs Despite Defunding From Legislature
After a marathon discussion Thursday, the University of Wyoming Board of Trustees seemed unlikely to scrap DEI programming despite the Wyoming Legislature defunding it. A final decision is expected Friday.
Leo WolfsonMay 10, 2024
Lummis, Barrasso Sponsor Bill To Save AM Radio As Vital For Rural States
Many car manufacturers have not been putting AM radio in their new cars. But Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis say AM radio is still critical for people in rural states so they've co-sponsored legislation that would require automakers to keep it.
Leo WolfsonMay 09, 2024
Gray Blasts Gordon For Wyoming Not Suing Over Biden’s Title IX Changes
Secretary of State Chuck Gray is blasting Gov. Mark Gordon for not joining 22 other states in suing the Biden administration for its new rules on Title IX, which include not allowing bans on biological males from participating in female sports.
Leo WolfsonMay 09, 2024
Saratoga Won’t Take Local Man’s 15,500 Pennies As Payment For Records Request
A Saratoga man doesn’t believe his local government is being transparent with the public, so he put in a public records request. Then they charged him $155 for it. When he tried to pay for it with 15,550 pennies, they wouldn't accept it.
Leo WolfsonMay 08, 2024
Former Wyoming Football Star Gary Crum Runs For State Senate
Gary Crum, a former University of Wyoming football player who also played in the NFL is running for a seat in the state Senate representing Albany County. His son Frank also played at UW and was just picked up by the Denver Broncos.
Leo WolfsonMay 08, 2024
Campbell County Says Rec Center Locker Rooms Are For Biological Sex Only
After weeks of local debate in the Gillette community, the Campbell County Parks and Recreation Board passed a new policy last week restricting locker room access to a user's biological sex.
Leo WolfsonMay 07, 2024
With Gaming Now A $1 Billion Wyoming Industry, Does It Need More Oversight?
Gaming in Wyoming has grown fast and is now a $1 billion a year industry. How big gaming gets and how much oversight might be necessary is now the focus of a Gaming Expansion Study discussed at a Joint Appropriations Committee meeting on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonMay 07, 2024
Cheyenne School District May Pass Wyoming’s Strictest Library Sex Book Policy
Laramie County School District No. 1 is considering a policy for sexually explicit books in school libraries that, if passed, would likely be the strictest in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMay 07, 2024
Holy Cow, Is It Windy! Extreme Winds, Blow-Overs Close I-25 Near Colorado Border
Extreme winds and gusts closed a section of I-25 between Cheyenne and the Colorado border on Monday, causing truckers to line up and wait. It was even worse in Colorado with near 100mph winds reported.
Leo WolfsonMay 06, 2024
Son Of Former Wyoming Governor Challenges Freedom Caucus Incumbent For House
Rob Geringer, the son of former Wyoming Gov. Jim Geringer, announced Monday he is running for the state House against incumbent Ben Hornok. Geringer said Republicans are squandering their supermajority in the Legislature by fixating on small differences among themselves.
Leo WolfsonMay 06, 2024
Push For Wyoming-Colorado Passenger Rail Service Gaining Momentum
A local effort to establish passenger trail service connecting Cheyenne to Colorado’s Front Range may seem a pipe dream to some, but an effort to make it happen has been gaining momentum.
Leo WolfsonMay 05, 2024
Hageman Endorses Barrasso, Says Wyoming Needs His Experience, Influence In Senate
In a Cowboy State Daily guest column, Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman endorses John Barrasso in his reelection campaign for the U.S. Senate, saying Wyoming needs his experience and position as a top Republican in Congress.
Leo WolfsonMay 05, 2024
Reid Rasner Seems To Be Making Everyone Mad
Wyoming Senate challenger Reid Rasner has not only incurred the wrath of Rep. Harriet Hageman but many other conservatives are calling him out for his questionable campaign tactics.
Leo WolfsonMay 03, 2024
Pro-Life Wyoming Legislator Rachel Rodriguez-Williams Has Challenger
Wyoming’s most vocal pro-life state legislator state Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, has a reelection opponent in David Hill, who shares many of her conservative values, but says the incumbent hasn’t been effective enough.
Leo WolfsonMay 03, 2024
Feds Planning To Declassify Marijuana But Wyoming Penalties Will Stay Same
The federal government’s reclassification of marijuana will be a significant change if it goes through, but it won’t change any of the penalties associated with possessing pot in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMay 03, 2024
Hageman Demands Reid Rasner Cease And Desist Misleading Social Media Posts
Rep. Harriet Hageman on Thursday sent a cease and desist letter to U.S. Senate candidate Reid Rasner to stop making social media posts that insinuate she is supporting and endorsing his campaign against U.S. Sen. John Barrasso.
Leo WolfsonMay 02, 2024
Wyoming LGBTQ Republican Group Wants Louder Voice In Politics
Jackson resident and Republican Melchor Moore believes the media and Democratic Party unjustly promote a stereotype that all LGBTQ people like himself should inherently be Democrats. He said many are Republicans and embrace conservative politics.
Leo WolfsonMay 02, 2024
Wyoming Caucus Leader Barry Crago Announces Run For State Senate
Rep. Barry Crago, one of the leaders in the Wyoming Caucus faction of the state House and vocal challenger of the Freedom Caucus, announced Wednesday he’s running for the state Senate.
Leo WolfsonMay 01, 2024
1,000-Plus Wyoming Teaching Jobs Could Disappear As COVID Money Runs Out
With the expiration of many COVID-19 grant-funded teaching positions this spring, more than 1,000 teaching positions in Wyoming public schools could disappear. Nearly 2,500 teaching jobs with federal COVID grant money.
Leo WolfsonMay 01, 2024
Legislators Grill Head Of Wyoming Health Over $3,000 For Drag Show Event
The Joint Health, Labor and Social Services Committee grilled the head of the Wyoming Department of Health on Monday about $3,000 the agency gave for a drag show fundraiser.
Leo WolfsonMay 01, 2024
Challengers Line Up To Test Wyoming Senate Firebrand Anthony Bouchard
Two Republican candidates have announced campaigns to challenge Wyoming Senate firebrand Anthony Bouchard in the upcoming election. Both claim Bouchard doesn't adequately represent their constituencies.
Leo WolfsonApril 30, 2024
Hageman Blasts New Rule Mandating Electronic Cattle Ear Tags
Wyoming congressman Harriet Hageman on Monday blasted new U.S. Department of Agriculture rules that would require most cattle and bison moving across state lines to have electronic ear tags.
Leo WolfsonApril 30, 2024
Some Legislators Fear Health Care Advisory Group Would Push Medicaid Expansion
Some conservative Wyoming legislators grew agitated Monday at a proposal to create a new state health care advisory group, which they fear would push Medicaid expansion and increased government regulation.
Leo WolfsonApril 30, 2024
Riverton Challenger For Wyoming House Wants To Eliminate Property Tax
Joel Guggenmos said he didn’t want to run for the Wyoming Legislature, but feels a divine responsibility to challenge Riverton House incumbent Ember Oakley, saying he’s against big government and wants the elimination of property taxes.
Leo WolfsonApril 29, 2024
Wyoming Man Who Saved Family From Burning House Awarded Nation's Highest Heroism Award
Ryan Pasborg’s life has changed dramatically since he rescued a Green River mother and son from their burning home. Now with a new job, he was presented the Carnegie Medal on Saturday, the nation’s highest civilian honor for heroism.
Leo WolfsonApril 28, 2024
Wyoming 8-Year-Old Shows Plenty Of Fight While Heart ‘Slowly Giving Up’
Wyatt Morgan, an 8-year-old first grader from Carpenter, Wyoming, remains hospitalized after battling a progressively worse ailment that was filling his lungs with fluid and had his heart “slowly giving up.”
Leo WolfsonApril 27, 2024
2024 Is Shaping Up To Be The Year Of The Newcomer For Wyoming Elections
The 2024 election season is setting up to be a historic one in Wyoming with many candidates already announcing they’re running for the Legislature — and most of them newcomers.
Leo WolfsonApril 27, 2024
Reid Rasner Confident He'll Win Senate Primary Despite Barrasso’s Approval Rating
Sen. John Barrasso’s primary opponent Reid Rasner says he feels confident based on local polling data that he can win the Senate primary -- despite Barrasso having the highest approval rating in the U.S. Senate.
Leo WolfsonApril 26, 2024
Wyoming Delegation United In Saying No To $61 Billion For Ukraine War
All three of Wyoming’s members of Congress were united in voting against a $95 foreign funding package President Biden signed Wednesday that includes $61 billion to help Ukraine in its war against Russia.
Leo WolfsonApril 25, 2024
Wyoming State Senate Republican PAC Fined $5,000 By IRS
A political action committee supporting Wyoming’s State Senate Republicans has been fined $5,000 by the IRS over a tax filing discrepancy. State Sen. Brian Boner said it was a mistake in the paperwork.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Candidates Lining Up To Fill House Seat Of Four-Time Casper Incumbent
Two Republican candidates have already announced campaigns to run for House District 56 in Casper, a seat held by four-time Republican incumbent Jerry Obermueller, who recently announced he’s not running for reelection.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Freedom Caucus Blasts Barrasso For Supporting Warrantless Surveillance Bill
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is condemning Sen. John Barrasso for his support of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), which continues the federal government’s authority to conduct warrantless surveillance on U.S. citizens.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Evidence Piles Up Showing Wyoming’s Secretive LLC Filing Laws Being Used For Fraud
A county-level investigation shows that Wyoming’s secretive business filing laws are allowing out-of-state entities to fraudulently co-opt addresses. In Sheridan, an address is the legal registered place for nearly 17,000 businesses.
Leo WolfsonApril 24, 2024
Wyoming Conservative Firebrand Rep. Jeanette Ward, Opponent Already Slinging Mud
One of the most outspoken members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, state Rep. Jeanette Ward, has a challenger for her House District 57 seat — and they’re already slinging mud.
Leo WolfsonApril 23, 2024
Wyoming GOP Blasts Wilderness Bill Supported By Hageman, Barrasso, Lummis
At the state convention over the weekend, the Republican Party overwhelmingly opposed legislation - supported by Wyoming’s entire delegation -- that would open up thousands of acres of federal land to more uses.
Leo WolfsonApril 23, 2024
Big Tent vs Small Tent: Wyoming GOP Divided Over How Inclusive It Should Be
The turnout for the Republican State Convention has been smaller over the last few years. Critics say this is because party leadership has pursued a "small tent" philosophy which is much less accepting of a variety of viewpoints within the party.
Leo WolfsonApril 22, 2024
Wyoming Pro-Life Legislator's Website Taken Over By Planned Parenthood
Pro-life state Wyoming legislator Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams has had her campaign website URL taken over, and it now redirects to the donation page for the pro-choice advocacy group Planned Parenthood.
Leo WolfsonApril 22, 2024
Wyoming GOP Passes Rule To Kick Out County Precinct Members, But Is It Legal?
The Wyoming Republican Party passed a bylaw Saturday to remove county precinct committee members who don’t attend enough meetings. But some question whether it’s legal to remove people voted in during public elections.
Leo WolfsonApril 21, 2024
Teton County Man Says Luck Saved Him When Caught In Avalanche
Although he has no memories of the avalanche Jan. 12, 2024, Travis Halverson was flung for about 600 vertical feet down a slope through snow and trees like a ball in a Plinko board. He managed to get out despite breaking 10 bones in his spine, ribs, sternum and jaw, as well as a concussion.
Leo WolfsonApril 21, 2024
Wyoming Republican Party Censures Gov. Gordon; Gray Approves
After declining to even debate the topic, the Wyoming Republican Party censured Gov. Mark Gordon at its state convention on Saturday. Sec. of State Chuck Gray said he approved of the censure saying Gordon needed "accountability."
Leo WolfsonApril 20, 2024
Wyoming Republicans Advance Censure Against Mark Gordon
After some back-and-forth debate Friday, a committee of the Wyoming Republican Party advanced a measure to formally censure Gov. Mark Gordon.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2024
Potential Trump VP Pick Tulsi Gabbard Coming To Cheyenne This Summer
Tulsi Gabbard, a former congresswoman who left the Democratic Party and is on former President Donald Trump’s short list for vice president, will speak in Cheyenne this summer.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2024
Wyoming GOP Rejects ‘Liz Cheney Amendment’ To Kick People Out Of Party
After about eight hours of discussion and debate Thursday, the Bylaws Committee of the Wyoming Republican Party rejected a bylaws change nicknamed the “Liz Cheney Amendment” that would have allowed the state party to kick out members it doesn’t like.
Leo WolfsonApril 19, 2024
Wyoming’s Republican Governor Won’t Attend State GOP Convention
Citing prior commitments, Gov. Mark Gordon’s office told Cowboy State Daily that Gordon, Wyoming’s Republican governor, won’t attend the state GOP convention this weekend in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonApril 18, 2024
Radical Bylaw Changes Would Let Wyoming GOP Kick Out Members It Doesn’t Like
At its state convention this weekend, the Wyoming Republican Party will consider proposed bylaw changes that would allow the state party to kick out members for a wide variety of reasons.
Leo WolfsonApril 18, 2024
Wyoming GOP Says Water Tower Veto Was Retaliation, Possibly Unconstitutional
The Wyoming Republican Party is questioning whether Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of emergency money for a failing water tower in Wheatland was retaliation and questions whether he violated the state Constitution.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
It’s Official: Barrasso Wants Another 6 Years In US Senate
John Barrasso, Wyoming’s senior U.S. senator, officially announced Wednesday that he’s running for reelection to a fourth term in Congress.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
Hageman Presents Historic Articles Of Impeachment Against Mayorkas
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman was among the U.S. House members to deliver the historic articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to the Senate on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
Unhappy Weston County Commissioners Declare Vacant Wyoming House, Senate Seats
In a move some Wyoming legislators say “they have zero ability to do,” Weston County commissioners unhappy with their representation in the Legislature have voted to declare vacant state Senate and House seats.
Leo WolfsonApril 17, 2024
Supreme Court’s Ruling On Trans Surgeries For Kids Likely Bolsters Wyoming’s New Law
A Monday U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding Idaho’s ban on transgender surgeries for minors likely also bolsters Wyoming’s new law that does the same.
Leo WolfsonApril 16, 2024
Biden Nearly Unanimous Pick Of Wyoming Democrats
The Wyoming Democratic Party held its primary caucuses across the state Saturday and gave President Joe Biden 322 of the 324 state convention delegate votes. The other two votes went to Colorado resident David Olscamp and "uncommitted."
Leo WolfsonApril 16, 2024
PETA Holds Anti-Meat Protest In Wyoming, No One Shows Up
PETA held a protest at the Wyoming State Capitol on Monday to push for a tax on meat. The two humans dressed as cows had plenty of room to protest as no one showed up.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2024
Cheyenne Newcomer Runs For State House, Says Legislature Needs More Young People
A Wyoming native who’s lived in Cheyenne for about a year has announced he is running for the state House. The 31-year-old, who moved to Cheyenne from Sheridan, says the Wyoming Legislature needs more young people.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2024
Gordon Rejects Chuck Gray’s Voter Residency Rules
Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday rejected a slate of tighter voter registration rules proposed by Secretary of State Chuck Gray, saying Wyoming’s elections are “safe and secure.”
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2024
Yoder Residents Say Tons Of Dust From Sand Operation Is Choking Them Out
The mayor of the southeastern Wyoming town of Yoder said he’s at his wits’ end with a local sand processing plant that’s choking the town out with tons of dust, traffic and noise.
Leo WolfsonApril 13, 2024
Hageman Votes Against Bill To Allow Warrantless Spying On Americans
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman voted Friday against a bill reauthorizing the Department of Justice to conduct warrantless searches on American citizens. The bill passed.
Leo WolfsonApril 12, 2024
Effort Underway To Rename Mount Woodring In Grand Teton National Park
A push is on to rename Mount Woodring in Grand Teton National Park because it’s named for a former park superintendent charged with attempting to rape a child in 1934.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2024
Chuck Gray Spearheads Effort For Guns In State Capitol, Other State Buildings
At a meeting of the top five elected officials on Wednesday, Chuck Gray proposed allowing guns in the State Capitol building and other state buildings. Gray said a lot of his employees want to bring guns to work but are currently not allowed due to.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2024
Analysis: Casper Republican Has Most Success Passing Bills In 2024 Session
A Cowboy State Daily analysis shows that Casper Republican Sen. Jim Anderson was the most successful in the Legislature in getting individual bills passed during the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonApril 11, 2024
In Stunning Announcement, Senate VP Kinskey Won’t Run For Reelection
In a stunning announcement Wednesday, Wyoming Senate Vice President Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan, announced he won’t run for reelection to his Senate District 22 seat.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2024
Fort Washakie Democrat Wants To Flip Fremont County House Seat Back To Blue
Fort Washakie Democrat Ivan Posey has announced he’s running for the Wyoming Legislature in an effort to return House District 33 in Fremont County to blue.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2024
Total Eclipse A Huge Event, Even In Wyoming Where It Was Only About 60%
Although Wyoming wasn't on the path of totality for Monday's total eclipse like it was in 2017, plenty of people were looking to the sky around midday to see the eclipse, which was about 50% to 60% across the state.
Leo Wolfson, Coy Knobel & Andrew RossiApril 08, 2024
For 58 Years, Cheyenne’s Eli Trujillo Is A Barber’s Barber — And Still Cutting Hair
Eli Trujillo of Cheyenne has been cutting hair for 58 years and even at age 86, is still a barber's barber, actively cutting hair five days a week behind his familiar chair at the family barbershop.
Leo WolfsonApril 07, 2024
Park County Republican Party Censures Mark Gordon Over Vetoes
The Park County Republican Party censured Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday over vetoes the governor made to bills passed during the recent legislative session. The sharply-worded censure passed on a 62-24 vote.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2024
Well-Known Rancher Cat Urbigkit Announces Run To Replace House Speaker Sommers
Sublette County rancher Cat Urbigkit on Friday announced she’s running to replace House Speaker Albert Sommers in the Wyoming Legislature, who isn’t running for reelection. Urbigkit describes herself as being more of a Libertarian than Sommers.
Leo WolfsonApril 05, 2024
Controversial State Land Transfer In Sheridan County Killed By State Land Board
A 560-acre tract of pristine state trust land in Sheridan County will remain open to the public after the State Land Board on Thursday voted to kill the land swap. The meeting got off to a heated start with Chuck Gray and Megan Degenfelder exchanging barbs.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2024
Early Freedom Caucus Member Runs To Win Back Wyoming House Seat
Former state Rep. Bob Wharff of Evanston was an early member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus who gave up his state House seat in an unsuccessful run for the Senate in 2022. Now he wants that House seat back.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2024
So You Want To Be Wyoming Governor? It Helps To Be Male And Married With Kids
A Cowboy State Daily analysis of Wyoming’s 33 governors shows some interesting commonalities among the state’s highest office holders, including they’re almost always male, married and have kids.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2024
Former Legislator Who Lost By 12 Votes In 2022 Wants His Seat Back
Former state Rep. JD Williams of Lusk lost by just 12 votes in the 2022 Republican primary, the closest race for the Wyoming Legislature. Now the Lusk resident says he’s running to win back his seat from incumbent Rep. Allen Slagle.
Leo WolfsonApril 03, 2024
Legislators May Bring Back Blockbuster Property Tax Swap For Sales Tax Increase
A highlight from Monday’s Management Council meeting is that the Senate Revenue Committee may bring back a blockbuster proposal that would eliminate property taxes for 97% of homeowners in return for an increase in sales tax.
Leo WolfsonApril 02, 2024
Company Behind Trump’s Flashy Gold High-Top Sneakers Registered In Wyoming
A law firm that’s helped set up more than 5,000 limited liability companies in Wyoming is the registered agent for former President Donald Trump’s flashy gold high-top sneakers, which sold out at $399 a pair.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2024
Freedom Caucus Endorses Candidates In University Of Wyoming Student Election
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus has taken the unprecedented step of endorsing two candidates in the upcoming student government election at the University of Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2024
No Special Session: Wyoming Legislature Votes Down Extra Time To Undo Gordon Vetoes
By a 50-43 vote, the Wyoming Legislature on Sunday rejected a proposal to call a special session to override some of the vetoes Gov. Mark Gordon made to bills passed during the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonApril 01, 2024
Wyoming History: First Female State Senator Anti-Prohibition, Pro Veteran's Hospital
Wyoming’s first female state senator Dora McGrath had a colorful life. She helped lead the fight against prohibition, was nearly gunned down in a street fight, and is the legislator primarily responsible for the veteran's hospital in Cheyenne.
Leo WolfsonMarch 31, 2024
Legislative Council Says Gordon Should Reject Chuck Gray’s Voter Registration Rules
The Wyoming Legislature’s Management Council told Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday that he should reject Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s proposed voter residency rules. They say Gray doesn't have the authority to make these changes.
Leo WolfsonMarch 29, 2024
Chuck Gray Blasts Gordon For Vetoes On Property Tax Relief, Abortion, Gun Rights
In a fiery letter to Gov. Gordon, Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Thursday said the governor's vetoes on property tax relief, abortion, and the elimination of gun free zones are sending Wyoming "in the wrong direction."
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2024
Ex-Natrona County Commissioner Runs For Charlie Scott’s Seat In Wyoming Legislature
Longtime Natrona County Commissioner Rob Hendry has announced he’s running for Senate District 30. There’s just one obstacle — Charlie Scott, who’s been in the Wyoming Legislature since 1979.
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2024
Hageman Votes To Ban Pride Flags From Being Displayed At US Embassies
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman voted to prohibit LGBTQ Pride flags from being displayed at U.S. embassies. “An embassy is a country's highest level of diplomatic representation,” she said. “A pride flag is not our nation's flag."
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Will Vote On Calling A Special Session; Driskill, Sommers Oppose
Enough signatures have been tabulated Wednesday to officially call for a vote on whether to convene a special session of the Wyoming Legislature. Both Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers say they are opposed to a special session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
First Challenger To A Wyoming Freedom Caucus Seat In The Legislature Announces
House District 35 in Casper is the first seat in the Legislature where an incumbent member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus has a challenger for the Republican primary.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
What A Special Session Could Look Like For Wyoming Legislators
There have been loud demands for the Wyoming Legislature to convene a special session to undo Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of a property tax relief bill, but what could that look like?
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2024
Biden's Transportation Chief Cancels Wyoming Visit After Baltimore Bridge Falls
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg had been scheduled to visit Wyoming on Tuesday and have a private tour with Gov. Mark Gordon until a Baltimore bridge collapsed, canceling his plans.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
There’s More To Kendell Cummings Than Being The Guy Who Wrestled A Grizzly
Since October 2022, the world has known Kendell Cummings as the guy who jumped on a grizzly bear to save a buddy. But there’s more to the Evanston, Wyoming, native.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
About Face: Driskill, Sommers Now May Call Special Session For Property Tax Bill
After saying Monday morning they wouldn't call for the Wyoming Legislature to reconvene for a special session, Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers say they're now considering it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
Legislator Calls Gordon Veto Of Wheatland Water Tower ‘Vindictive,’ ‘Reckless’
State Rep. Jeremy Haroldson says Gov. Mark Gordon was “vindictive” and “reckless” in vetoing $2 million to help replace a failing water tower in Wheatland.
Leo WolfsonMarch 26, 2024
Highest Heroism Award For Wyoming Wrestler Who Saved Teammate From Grizzly
A Powell, Wyoming, college wrestler who saved a teammate from a grizzly bear attack in 2022 — and himself was badly mauled — has been awarded the Carnegie Medal, North America’s highest award for heroism.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2024
Driskill, Sommers Won’t Call For Special Session To Overturn Governor’s Vetoes
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers said Monday they won’t comply with requests from some Wyoming legislators to call for a special session to overturn Governor Gordon’s vetoes.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2024
Why Tree Wells Are So Deadly For Skiers And Snowboarders
Two skiers have died in Wyoming in the past month after getting themselves caught in tree wells. The odds of surviving a tree well accident are incredibly low with an estimated 90% of people who get themselves stuck are unable to rescue themselves.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2024
This Week's Election & Re-election Announcements in Wyoming
A number of current state legislators have confirmed to Cowboy State Daily this past week that they’re running for reelection. Some have dropped out. Many already have challengers. Here's a quick look.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2024
Wyoming Joins Supreme Court Lawsuit On Trump Immunity
Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill has joined an amicus brief with two other state attorneys general asking the U.S. Supreme Court to establish a legal test for the limits of presidential immunity.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
Gordon Signs Bill To Give Money For Private Schools, But Cuts Income Threshold
Gov. Mark Gordon made a significant cut to a bill giving state money to parents who want to send their kids to private schools or to homeschool in Wyoming, but still signed it Thursday.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
Gordon Vetoes Property Tax Relief Bill, Calls It ‘Socialistic’ and ‘Bidenomic’
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a property tax relief bill Thursday that would have exempted 25% of assessed home value off Wyoming homes worth $2 million or less, calling it “a socialistic type of wealth transfer.” He signed three other property tax bills.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
University of Wyoming Won’t Cut Diversity Program Despite Legislature Defunding It
Despite the Wyoming Legislature stripping funding for the University of Wyoming’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) program, the university won’t cut it, President Ed Seidel told Cowboy State Daily on Thursday. He said the university could use its own money or private money to keep it going.
Leo WolfsonMarch 22, 2024
Barrasso And Lummis Slam New Biden Administration EV Mandate
Sens. Barrasso and Lummis blasted a new Biden EV rule announced Wednesday that says gas-powered cars can make up no more than 30% of U.S. auto sales by 2032. They both vowed to overturn the mandate to protect consumer choice.
Leo WolfsonMarch 21, 2024
Affie Ellis, Wyoming's First Native Woman Legislator, Won't Run For Reelection
Affie Ellis, a Cheyenne Republican and first Native American woman elected to the Wyoming Legislature, has announced she won't run for reelection in the fall.
Leo WolfsonMarch 21, 2024
It’s Not A Conspiracy to Hide Wrecks, Those WYDOT Webcams Really Are Broken
Conspiracy theorists will be disappointed to learn that the Wyoming Department of Transportation doesn’t routinely shut off highway webcams when there’s a wreck. Dozens of them really are broken.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2024
Wyoming House Majority Whip Cyrus Western Won’t Run For Reelection
House Majority Whip state Rep. Cyrus Western, a Republican from Big Horn, confirmed to Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday that he won’t be running for reelection this fall.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2024
Wyoming Delegation Applaud Ruling Allowing Texas To Arrest, Deport Illegals
Wyoming’s congressional delegation applauded a Tuesday U.S. Supreme Court decision to allow Texas broad discretion to arrest and deport migrants illegally crossing the border.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
US Supreme Court To Consider Wyoming Election Buffer Zone Challenge
The U.S. Supreme Court will consider whether to hear a Wyoming First Amendment challenge to the state’s buffer zones restricting campaigning around polling places. If the high court hears the case, it could impact elections nationwide.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
Wyoming Clerk Says Gray's Office Doing Little To Promote Crossover Voting Change
For the first time this year, Wyoming primary voters can’t crossover vote. They have to decide party affiliation months earlier, by May 15. But a county clerk says Chuck Gray’s office is doing little to let people know about the change.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
Gordon Vetoes Bill To Deregulate Mining Over Casper Gravel Pit Amendments
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill Monday that would have deregulated some mining operations on state lands. He said the bill was hijacked by amendments aimed at solving a Casper gravel pit proposal.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2024
Legislative Watchdog Gary Brown To Challenge Cheyenne Incumbent Bill Henderson
Cheyenne resident Gary Brown says his state representative, Bill Henderson, snubbed him and doesn’t vote with the Republican Party line enough, so he’s running for Henderson’s House District 41 seat.
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2024
Sublette Is Fastest Growing County In Wyoming, Crook County Next
A new report from the Wyoming Economic Analysis Division shows Sublette and Crook counties are the fastest growing counties in the state while Carbon and Platte counties saw the largest decreases.
Leo WolfsonMarch 16, 2024
State Sen. Schuler Says She's ‘Had It’ With Mean, Divisive Politics In Legislature
Sen. Wendy Schuler, a fifth-generation Wyomingite, said she’s concerned with how many new residents of Wyoming are running for office. She said many of these people haven’t made an effort to understand Wyoming culture or beliefs.
Leo WolfsonMarch 16, 2024
Gordon Vetoes Bill That Carved Out $75 Million To Fight Feds
Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday vetoed a bill that would have carved out $75 million for Wyoming to fight federal overreach, including the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs Resource Management Plan. He said the bill was a "clear attempt to cross, blur and trample the line of separation" between the branches of government.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2024
Powell Musician Planning To Put 150 People On Box Cars For "Trump Train" Video
A country musician from Powell plans to put 150 Wyomingites on box cars for his “Trump Train 2024,” music video which he is shooting this spring. He hopes his video gets noticed and the former president will use it during the campaign.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2024
How Frugal Wyoming’s Next Budget Is Depends On Who You Ask
There’s a $1 billion disagreement among state legislators about the real cost of the final budget passed last week by the State Legislature. This debate, and who wins it, could highly influence the upcoming election season.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2024
Recent Wyoming Transplant And Gun Lobbyist To Run For Barry Crago’s Seat
Mark Jones, a guns rights lobbyist who moved to Wyoming from North Carolina in 2021, announced Monday he’s running for the seat now held by Buffalo Republican Barry Crago in the state House.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2024
Wyoming’s Republican Factions Face Off For Battleground GOP Primary
Now that the 2024 legislative session is over, Wyoming’s political focus shifts to the Republican primary, which could be a battleground between the state Republican Party’s two main factions, the Wyoming Caucus and the Wyoming Freedom Caucus.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2024
Hageman Votes To Ban TikTok In The U.S. If Chinese Owner Doesn’t Sell
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman voted in support of legislation Wednesday that would ban the use of TikTok in America as long as it’s owned by a Chinese company. "TikTok is a clear and present danger to our national security,” she said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Sparks Already Fly In GOP Showdown Between Cody Mayor, National Committeewoman
A Republican showdown between Cody Mayor Matt Hall and GOP National Committeewoman Nina Webber is already getting personal as they square off for a potential swing seat for the Freedom Caucus in the Wyoming Legislature.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Judge Tosses Lawsuit Seeking To Oust 4 Of 5 Sheridan County Commissioners
A lawsuit filed by the Sheridan County Republican Party seeking to oust four of that county’s five commissioners was tossed out by a judge Monday. The judge found the Sheridan GOP lacked standing to bring its lawsuit and failed to meet the burden of proof of any wrongdoing.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Former Colorado Political Operative Running For Wyoming Legislature
A former Colorado political operative has announced her candidacy for the Wyoming State House in Sheridan, and the seat of one of the most prominent members of the Wyoming Caucus, Cyrus Western.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2024
Laramie County GOP Out Of State Party’s Doghouse, Raising Big Money
What a difference a year can make. That’s about how long it’s taken the Laramie County Republican Party to go from being an outcast and in the doghouse of the Wyoming Republican Party to hosting the upcoming state GOP convention in April.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2024
To Veto Or Not To Veto: Gov Gordon Has 55 Bills On His Desk
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon has 55 bills on his desk awaiting his signature, the veto pen, or he can allow them to go into law without a signature. They include a bills to outlaw gender change surgeries for minors, eliminate gun-free zones in the state, and state regulation of abortion clinics.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2024
Lummis Teams Up With Fetterman To Cut Red Tape For Federal Home Repair Money
In a rare show of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill, Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis is co-sponsoring legislation with Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman that would establish a five-year pilot program to make it easier for homeowners to get help with critical home repairs.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2024
Govs Freudenthal, Sullivan Praise Legacy Of Former State Auditor Dave Ferrari
Former State Auditor Dave Ferrari died last week at age 80. Wyoming Govs. Sullivan and Freudenthal praised Ferrari as a champion of government efficiency and transparency. "He was remarkably ethical," Fruedenthal said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2024
Wyoming GOP Director Kathy Russell Announces Run For Legislature
Kathy Russell, the executive director for the Wyoming Republican Party, announced Monday she’s running for the state Legislature for the seat held by veteran Cheyenne legislator Rep. Bob Nicholas. She is considered to be much more conservative than Nicholas.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2024
Legislature Passes Wyoming Property Tax Cap, Two More Tax Relief Bills
Wyoming homeowners may no longer have to fear large, unexpected increases on their property taxes after the Wyoming Legislature sent three more property tax relief bills to the governor’s desk for consideration Friday.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2024
Unless Gordon Vetoes Bill, Parents Can Spend Up To $6,000 For Private Schools
After some brief moments of tension, a bill giving Wyoming parents up to $6,000 per child to get private schooling advanced to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk Friday. The bill as passed includes all schooling from pre-kindergarten up to 12th grade.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Ends Contentious Session By Passing $10.6 Billion Budget
The Wyoming Legislature passed its $10.6 billion budget Friday, sending it Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk on the final day of the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 09, 2024
Senate Will Close Loophole That Allowed Driskill To Remove Committee Chair
The Wyoming Senate will close a loophole before the next legislative session that allowed Senate President Ogden Driskill to remove Dave Kinskey as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee last summer.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2024
Legislature Still Hasn’t Passed A Budget, But Gordon Already Makes Veto To It
The Wyoming Legislature goes into the last day of what’s been a highly confrontational 2024 session Friday without having passed a budget, but that hasn’t stopped Gov. Gordon from already vetoing part of it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Passes Bill To Ban Transgender Surgeries On Minors
The Wyoming legislature on Thursday passed a bill banning minors from receiving transgender treatments in the state. With the governor’s signature, Sen. Anthony Bouchard’s “Chloe’s Law” legislation will take effect July 1.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2024
Legislator Says Wyoming Freedom Caucus Is ‘Weaponizing’ House Roll Call Votes
State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, said members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus have been “weaponizing” the legislative process through the calling of roll call votes.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
Mixed Feelings In Wyoming Legislature About Budget ‘Compromise’
A budget proposal finalized Tuesday may face some serious pushback in the House and Senate when it’s presented to the full Legislature on Thursday afternoon.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
First Property Tax Relief Bill Of The Wyoming Leg. Session Headed To Gordon’s Desk
The Wyoming Senate passed and sent the first property tax bill to come out of the 2024 session to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk for approval Wednesday, a bill that will cut property taxes for long-term homeowners by 50%.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
Schools Can’t Keep Info. From Parents As Gordon Lets Law Pass Without Signature
Gov. Mark Gordon let a bill pass without his signature Tuesday requiring Wyoming schools to notify parents about changes to their children’s health status and get permission to teach about sexual orientation or gender identity.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2024
Changing Of The Guard? Infighting Sharply Divides Wyoming Senate
The rise of a faction opposing Senate President Ogden Driskill’s leadership has become a significant factor contributing to escalating infighting that’s dividing the body.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2024
Day After Senate Shakeup, New Budget Finalized By Legislative Committee
It only took a day for a new Senate Joint Conference Committee of the Wyoming Legislature to strike a compromise with the House on the biennial budget after the previous Senate appointees had failed to strike an agreement after four days.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2024
Driskill Calls Effort To Revive Gun-Free Zone Bill "Absolutely Idiocy"
Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill said Tuesday’s move to override his ruling about reviving a bill to eliminate gun-free zones was “absolute idiocy” and the result of a “raw power struggle on the floor.” Sen. Dave Kinskey said it was nothing personal.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Hageman Says Bidens Are "Most Corrupt Family In Position Of Power in U.S. History"
Rep. Harriet Hageman, who played a key role in interrogating Hunter Biden last week, said the president’s son’s story doesn't add up. “You don’t pay a crackhead $1 million a year to be on a board in a foreign country unless you’re getting something for it.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Chaos In Wyoming Senate After Driskill Boots Budget Team
Members of the Wyoming Senate reached a boiling point Monday night over failure to bridge a $1.1 billion gap in budget negotiations with the House. Senate President Ogden Driskill then fired his budget team and replaced them with new members.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Ban On Trans Treatments For Kids In Wyoming Close To Becoming Law
A bill that would prohibit doctors from performing gender transitioning treatments on minors in Wyoming is close to becoming law. Sen. Anthony Bouchard's legislation passed a House committee on Monday and is all but certain to pass the House.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2024
Hageman Applauds Supreme Court Ruling That Trump Can’t Be Left Off Ballots
Rep. Harriet Hageman told Cowboy State Daily she found the U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling Monday that former President Trump cannot be barred from states’ election ballots to be a “common sense decision.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2024
A Frustrated Driskill Says Wyoming Senate Has Become ‘Divisive, Mean’
Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill says he’s frustrated and very discontent with the state of affairs in the state Senate, which he says has become a “divisive, mean” group.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2024
Gordon Signs First Three Bills Of 2024 Legislature Into Law
On Friday afternoon, Gov. Mark Gordon signed the first three bills into law to come out of the 2024 legislative session.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2024
Proposed One-Time 25% Property Tax Cut Would Include Most Wyoming Homes
A bill that would allow a one-time, 25% cut of property taxes for homes worth $3 million or less in Wyoming advanced Friday.
Leo WolfsonMarch 02, 2024
Sponsor Of Bill To Pay For Private School Won’t Support It After Rash Of Changes
State Rep. Ken Clouston of Gillette said his educational savings account bill, which would give parents money for private schools, has been changed to the point that he won’t support it anymore.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2024
Trio Of Wyoming Property Tax Relief Bills Near Finish Line
Three property tax relief proposals were passed by a Senate committee Thursday, leaving only one more step before they head to the governor’s desk for review.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2024
Wyoming House Asks Senate To Add A Whopping $651 Million To Close $1 Billion Gap
The Wyoming House played its first move in the biennial state budget negotiating process on Thursday, asking the Senate to add a whopping $651 million in spending to help close a $1 billion gap.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2024
Wyoming Energy Industries Plead To Restore $350M Cut From Governor's Energy Program
Leaders of Wyoming’s energy industries are pleading with legislators to restore nearly $350 million slashed from the governor’s Energy Matching Funds program. Sen. Cheri Steinmetz disagreed calling it a "slush fund for the governor."
Leo WolfsonFebruary 29, 2024
Bill Sailing Through To Mandate Licenses for Wyoming Abortion Doctors, Clinics
A bill that would mandate Wyoming surgical facilities and doctors who do abortions be licensed is sailing through the Legislature with little pushback.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 29, 2024
House Speaker Sommers May Run For State Senate After Session
With Wednesday’s announcement by state Sen. Fred Baldwin that he won’t run for re-election, House Speaker Albert Sommers said he might run for Baldwin’s Senate seat.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 29, 2024
Wyoming Homeschool Parents Blast Plan To Give Money For Private Schools
Wyoming homeschool parents blasted a bill Wednesday that would create an education savings account to give money for kids to go to private schools citing concern it would set in motion a slippery slope of government regulation over homeschool education.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2024
Message Received: Driskill Makes Surprise Picks For Wyoming Budget Negotiations
Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill made some surprise picks to hash out the state budget Tuesday, saying the Senate “spoke really clearly that they wanted a conservative approach.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2024
Wyoming House Kills Bill That Would Have Eliminated Property Tax For Most Residents
The Wyoming House on Tuesday killed a high profile bill that would have eliminated property tax for 97% of state residents in exchange for hiking the sales tax by 2%. “The status quo is always protected,” the sponsor of the bill said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2024
Bill Banning Forced Use Of Preferred Pronouns Passes Wyoming Senate
A bill that would ban Wyoming state and county governments, along with public schools, from forcing people to use preferred gender pronouns passed the Senate on Tuesday and now moves to the House for consideration.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
In Rare Move, Gov. Mark Gordon Vetoes Chuck Gray’s Proposed ESG Rules
In a rare move for a Wyoming governor, Mark Gordon announced Tuesday that he’s line-item vetoing parts of Secretary of State Chuck Gray’s proposed rules for ESG investing.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
House Makes Massive Changes To Blockbuster Wyoming Tax Relief Bill
A property tax bill that would lead to a massive overhaul to Wyoming’s taxation system received some significant changes on Monday that soften the legislation and reduce Wyoming’s commitment to it.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
Wyoming Legislature Already Talking Special Session Over $1 Billion Budget Rift
A massive $1 billion rift between the Wyoming Senate and House versions of the budget is already fueling talks of a special session to hash it out.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2024
$40M For Wyoming 988 Suicide Hotline Barely Alive With $900 Million Gap To Fill
A bill that would have put $40 million into a trust for Wyoming’s 988 suicide centers failed last week. Meanwhile, a $40 million budget amendment for the same purpose is still alive, but barely as the House and Senate look to bridge a $900 million budget gap.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 26, 2024
Wyoming Property-Sales Tax Swap Barely Passes After Drama-Filled House Debate
A bill that would exempt about 97% of Wyoming homeowners from paying property tax in exchange for a 2% sales tax hike barely passed the state House on Friday after an emotional, drama-filled debate.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2024
Poll Shows Illegal Immigration Is No. 1 Priority For Wyoming Republicans
A recent survey shows that stopping illegal immigration is by far the most important issue for Wyoming Republicans.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 24, 2024
$900 Million Rift Separates Wyoming Senate And House Budgets
The Wyoming Senate and House both completed their biennial budgets late Thursday night with a massive fiscal rift of roughly $900 million separating the two. Last year’s supplemental budget featured a $30 million difference between the two chambers.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 23, 2024
House Hikes Benefits For Family Of Slain Sheridan Cop, But It’s Not Unanimous
Some Wyoming House members spoke against raising the death benefits for the family of a slain Sheridan cop Thursday, but it passed easily anyway.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 23, 2024
Wyoming Senate Axes $118M In Major School Construction Projects From Budget
On two close votes, the Wyoming Senate voted Thursday to cut the entire $111.8 million budgeted over the next two years for major school constructions projects.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
Amendment Ties Kelly Parcel Sale To Fate Of Controversial BLM Rock Springs Plan
The Wyoming House passed an amendment late Wednesday night that would tie the sale of the Kelly Parcel to the National Park Service to the fate of the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs management plan.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
‘Monolith Of Wokeness’: Senate Votes To Defund UW Gender Studies, Diversity Office
One of the most heated budget debates in the Wyoming Legislature on Wednesday was around amendments to defund the UW Diversity Office and Gender Studies program. Sen. Charlie Scott called the UW a “monolith of wokeness.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
Swapping Property Tax For Sales Tax Good For Wyoming Homeowners, Bad For Renters
A proposal by Rep. Steve Harshman of Casper that would swap property tax for 2% hike in sales tax for most Wyomingites is good for homeowners, but bad for renters.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 22, 2024
National Activist Chloe Cole Testifies Against Transgender Treatments For Minors In Wyoming
Activist Chloe Cole, who has "detransitioned" after receiving transgender surgeries as a minor, testified on Wednesday against the controversial treatments, saying "no adult has any right to do this to any child, whether it be a parent, a doctor, a counselor, anyone.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2024
Lummis Calls For Mayorkas Impeachment Trial
U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis on Tuesday demanded Minority Leader Mitch McConnell call a Senate trial into the impeachment of Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2024
Tempers Boil Over On Wyoming House Floor After Accusation Of Vote Swapping
Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers didn't hold back in chastising a Gillette legislator on the House floor Tuesday after he accused another member of “logrolling” — political speak for trading votes.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 21, 2024
Blockbuster Bill Would Eliminate Most Wyoming Property Tax, Hike Sales Tax 2%
Rep. Steve Harshman's blockbuster tax reform proposal that would eliminate most property tax in Wyoming in return for hiking the sales tax by 2% passed the House Revenue Committee on Tuesday. “Our people need this and want this,” he said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
Senate Committee Passes Bill Banning Credit Card Tracking Of Gun Purchases
A bill prohibiting financial institutions from assigning credit card codes to track firearms purchases in Wyoming advanced to the Senate on Tuesday. The bill passed the senate committee by a unanimous margin.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
Wyoming Senate OKs $2 Million To Help Texas With Border Fight
The Wyoming Senate on Monday approved a $2 million budget amendment as aid for Texas to secure its southern border with Mexico.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
Wyoming A Step Closer To Requiring Abortion Clinics To Be Licensed
Supporters of a bill requiring abortion clinics to be licensed in Wyoming say its purpose is to protect the health of women, detractors say it’s a ploy to restrict abortion more.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 20, 2024
172 Bills Axed -- Short Wyoming Budget Session Makes First Week A Legislative Massacre
With only 20 days allotted in a budget session, bills can die a quick death. After the first week of the 2024 session that was completed on Friday, 172 bills either failed to be introduced or were not considered at all.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 19, 2024
Lawsuit Claims Two Teton County Commissioners Conspired To Oust Fire Chief
A Jackson resident has filed a lawsuit against two Teton County Commissioners, claiming they conspired to get former Fire Chief Stephen Jellie fired and wants them removed from the commission.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 19, 2024
Handful Of Property Tax Bills Advance, Including 5% Cap On Year-To-Year Hikes
The House Revenue Committee advanced a handful of property tax relief measures Friday, including one that would cap year-to-year tax increases at 5%.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 17, 2024
Slain Sheridan Police Sgt. Krinkee Honored By Wyoming Legislature
The Wyoming Legislature honored Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee on Friday, who was shot and killed Tuesday in the line of duty. Sheridan’s loss is one “felt across our entire state,” said Senate President Ogden Driskill.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 17, 2024
Wyoming Caucus Blasts Freedom Caucus Republicans For Killing Firearms Bill
Rep. Barry Crago blasted the Freedom Caucus on Friday for voting against a bill aimed to protect Wyomingites from being tracked for buying and owning firearms. "The same legislators who claim to be principled staunch advocates for the Second Amendment then turn around and vote against it," he said.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2024
Freedom Caucus Blasts 19 Republicans For Killing Bill To Define Genders
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus went on the offensive Thursday after 19 Republicans voted to kill a bill that officially defines what it is to be “female” and “male” in Wyoming as a person’s biological sex at birth.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2024
$40 Million For Suicide Hotline Trust Fund Bill Advances By 1 Vote
A proposal to put $40 million into a trust fund for Wyoming’s two 988 suicide hotline centers squeaked through the House for introduction Thursday, just barely meeting the two-thirds threshold to advance.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 16, 2024
Laramie Democrat Introduces Bill To Decriminalize Marijuana
State Rep. Karlee Provenza, D-Laramie, has introduced a bill to decriminalize marijuana in Wyoming. The likelihood of it passing is about zero for political reasons and the much higher threshold of getting a non-budget bill through a budget session.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2024
Freedom Caucus, House Dems Team Up To Kill Bill Outlawing Child Sex Changes
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus and five House Democrats formed an unexpected alliance Wednesday to torpedo a bill that would have prevented minors from receiving transgender surgeries in most scenarios in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2024
With Abortion In Wyoming Already In Court, New Bills Aim To Restrict It More
A handful of bills being considered in the 2024 legislative session aim to restrict, regulate or continue access to abortions in Wyoming, while its legal status continues to be fought in the courts.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 15, 2024
Gordon Orders Flags At Half-Staff For Slain Sheridan Police Officer
Gov. Mark Gordon on Wednesday ordered all U.S. and Wyoming flags be lowered to half-staff in honor Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee, who was shot and killed in the line of duty Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Wyoming Senate Committee Passes Bill Requiring Parents To Opt-In For Kids' School Health Services
A bill that instructs Wyoming public schools to notify parents about changes to the health status of their children, including help in gender-transitioning, passed the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday morning.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Legislature Wastes No Time Debating Property Tax Reform
After tackling Gov. Mark Gordon’s $10.8 billion budget, the largest issue for Wyoming legislators this session is property tax reform, and they wasted no time Tuesday getting into more than a dozen proposed bills.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Hageman Chosen As Impeachment Manager For Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas
Shortly after the U.S. House voted to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, it was announced Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman will be a Senate trial manager, if needed.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
Down The Tubes: Wyoming House Kills Record 13 Committee Bills On Introduction
Some state lawmakers are upset that 13 committee bills were killed on the first day of the 2024 Wyoming Legislature on Monday, calling it a waste of state resources and potential money for communities.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 14, 2024
‘Incredibly Saddening’: Wyoming Reacts To Killing Of Sheridan Police Officer
Gov. Mark Gordon and area legislators expressed shock and sadness about the fatal shooting of a Sheridan police officer on Tuesday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
Some Wyoming Republicans Say Gordon’s State Of State Full Of ‘Hypocrisy’
Gov. Mark Gordon said all the right things in his State of the State speech Monday, which has some Wyoming Republicans calling out as “hypocrisy” and inconsistent with his recent energy stances.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
‘Free Palestine’ Protesters At Wyoming Capitol Accuse Gordon, Hageman Of Genocide
About 40 people gathered outside the Wyoming Capitol on Monday to accuse Gov. Mark Gordon and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman of committing genocide by supporting Israel’s war with Hamas.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
Wyoming Senate Overturns Driskill, Reinstalls Kinskey As Appropriations Chair
Despite an emotional plea from Senate President Ogden Driskill not to overturn a decision he made to remove Dave Kinskey as chairman of the Appropriations Committee, they voted 17 - 14 to reinstall him on Monday.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 13, 2024
Gordon State Of The State Address: Biden Threatening Wyoming's "Very Way Of Life"
In his State of the State address on Monday, Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon criticized President Biden's energy polices as “warped,” “unwise” and — borrowing from Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf — “unadulterated bovine scatology.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 12, 2024
Freedom Caucus Questions If State Agency Is Pushing Property Tax Bill
Leading members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus are concerned the Wyoming Department of Revenue may be lobbying county assessors to support a property tax that will be considered in the upcoming legislative session.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 11, 2024
$10.8 Billion Budget, 205 Bills To Start 2024 Wyoming Legislature Session On Monday
When Wyoming legislators begin their 2024 session Monday, they’ll start with Gov. Mark Gordon’s proposed $10.8 billion budget and 205 bills already introduced.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 10, 2024
Park County Citizens Push To Ditch Voting Machines In Favor Of Hand-Count Ballots
With the 2024 elections coming up fast in Wyoming, a group of Park County residents and state senator are reviving an effort there to replace electronic vote tabulators with the human hand-counts.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2024
Gordon Says Freedom Caucus Criticism Of Him Is ‘Misleading’ And ‘Vague’
A spokesperson for Gov. Mark Gordon says a Wednesday guest column by four members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus about Gordon’s proposed budget is inaccurate, “misleading” and “vague.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2024