Government & Politics
News
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
Natrona Commissioners Kill Controversial Gravel Pit, Get Standing Ovation
After months of emotional debate, Natrona County Commissioners on Tuesday night killed a controversial plan for a gravel pit near the base of Casper Mountain. Denial of a permit for the operation drew a standing ovation.
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 18, 2024
Lander Political Sign Thief Targets Republicans And Democrats
An apparent political sign thief in Lander, Wyoming, has gone bipartisan, plucking yard signs for Republicans and Democrats. A pile of signs was recovered by local police, who reported Tuesday only that the issue “has been taken care of.”
Clair McFarlandSeptember 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
Renaming Northwest College For Yellowstone A Marketing ‘Gold Mine,’ But Locals Not Sure
From a marketing standpoint, renaming Northwest College Yellowstone College could be a marketing “gold mine.” But locals aren’t sold on changing a name that’s been part of the community for decades.
Andrew RossiSeptember 16, 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
“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
Controversial Casper Mountain Gravel Pit Gets Another Win As Locals Protest
A controversial gravel pit planned for state-owned land near the base of Casper Mountain got another win Tuesday night. Natrona County planners shot down an effort to kill the project’s county permit.
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 11, 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
Trump Or Kamala? Casper Realtor Ready For People To Move To Canada
A Casper real estate broker is ready for people to move to Canada after the election. He's erected a billboard with photos of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris that says “Moving to CANADA!? We Can Sell Your Home!"
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 10, 2024
Converse County School District To Consider Concealed Carry On School Grounds
Converse County School District 1 could become the latest in the state to allow employees to conceal carry firearms. A vote is scheduled in October to allow district employees to carry firearms concealed on school grounds.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 09, 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
More People Getting More Hostile With Wyoming County Assessors
County assessors around Wyoming are reporting more people are being more hostile toward them. In Natrona County, the assessor says when she sends people out into the field, she’s concerned “which one is not going to make it back.”
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 09, 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
Fatal Crashes, Killings And Suicides “Through The Roof” In Natrona County
Fatal crashes, killings and suicides are “through the roof” so far in 2024, the Natrona County Coroner reports. They’re up in northeast Wyoming, too.
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 05, 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
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
Kamala Harris Interview With CNN Exposes Flip-Flop On Fracking
Kamala Harris did a 180-degree flip on fracking in an interview with CNN’s Dana Bash on Thursday. Political watchdogs told Cowboy State Daily her new position on fracking is politics, not policy.
Pat MaioAugust 30, 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
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
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
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 Bray 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
JD Williams Scores Rematch Victory Over Allen Slagle In House District 2 Seat
After losing by 12 votes to Allen Slagle in the 2022 Republican primary, former House member JD Williams won Tuesday’s rematch. This time it wasn’t as close.
Renée JeanAugust 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
Wyoming Primary Roundup: Other Contested Races
Cowboy State Daily published stories about 18 of the most important contested races in Tuesday’s Wyoming primary. There were no contested Democratic races, making the primary all about the Republicans.
August 21, 2024
Charlie Scott Beats Rob Hendry In Bid For 14th Term In Legislature
Charlie Scott, R-Casper, easily beat former Natrona County Commissioner Robert Hendry in Tuesday’s Republican primary. If he wins in November, it’ll be his 14th term in the Wyoming Legislature.
Renée JeanAugust 21, 2024
Jayme Lien Stuns Incumbent Tom Walters in District 38 GOP Primary Upset
Challenger Jayme Lien stunned incumbent Tom Walters in the District 38 Wyoming House primary race Tuesday, denying him a seventh term.
Dale KillingbeckAugust 21, 2024
Goshen County GOP Gives Incumbent Smith Strong Support For House District 5
Incumbent Rep. Scott Smith won a second term representing House District 5 in Tuesday’s Republican primary. A member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, Smith beat out Jackie Van Mark.
Renée JeanAugust 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
Kemmerer Bus Driver Beats House Speaker Albert Sommers In Stunning Senate Race Upset
In a stunning defeat, Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers lost to Kemmerer resident Laura Taliaferro Pearson, in Senate District 14 which covers Sublette, Lincoln, Sweetwater and Uinta counties.
Pat MaioAugust 21, 2024
Ken Clouston Wins House District 32 Primary Over George Dunlap
In the most interesting race of the Campbell County Republican primary election, incumbent Ken Clouston beat George Dunlap.
Jen KocherAugust 21, 2024
State Rep. Crago Scores Win Over Rep. Mark Jennings In Senate Primary
In a race between two rival state House members vying for a State Senate seat, Rep. Barry Crago of Buffalo prevailed over Rep. Mark Jennings of Sheridan.
Mark HeinzAugust 21, 2024
Tom Kelly Defeats Gail Symons In Sheridan Primary Race For House District 30
In the race between two Republicans in Sheridan for a House seat being vacated, the more conservative candidate — Tom Kelly — won, beating Gail Symons.
Mark HeinzAugust 21, 2024
Freedom Caucus Firebrand Jeanette Ward Upset For House District 57
Julie Jarvis upset State House Rep. Jeanette Ward of Casper in Tuesday’s primary election. Ward was ousted after one term.
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
Nina Webber Beats Cody Mayor Hall For Park County House Seat
Nina Webber won Tuesday’s primary election for House District 24, a seat being vacated by Sandy Newsome. Webber had lost to Newsome twice previously.
Andrew RossiAugust 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
Mike Schmid Beats Cat Urbigkit In Highly-Watched Sublette County House Race
Mike Schmid, a La Barge oilman aligned with the Freedom Caucus, won the Republican primary against well-known rancher Cat Urbigkit in House District 20 of Sublette County.
Pat MaioAugust 21, 2024
Rachel Rodriguez-Williams Secures Third Term For House District 50 Seat
Rachel Rodriguez-Williams won 62% of the vote in Tuesday’s primary election in Park County. The win gives Rodriguez-Williams a third term.
Andrew RossiAugust 21, 2024
Tomi Strock Beats Familiar Rival To Win Republican Primary For House District 6
Incumbent Rep. Tomi Strock, R-Douglas, defeated former legislator Aaron Clausen in a rematch of the 2022 primary race for Wyoming House District 6.
Dale KillingbeckAugust 21, 2024
Joel Guggemos Beats Incumbent Ember Oakley For House District 55 Seat
Joel Guggemos won 55% of the vote in Tuesday’s primary race to potentially represent Riverton in the Wyoming House.
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
Lloyd Larsen Bailed Out By Absentee Votes In House District 54 Race
Republican Rep. Lloyd Larsen of Lander retained the Republican nomination for his legislative seat of nearly 12 years, despite losing by 85 votes before absentee ballots were counted.
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
Darin McCann Stuns Clark Stith in Upset Primary Race in Sweetwater County
Freedom Caucus contender Darin McCann, R-Rock Springs, beat State House Rep. Clark Stith in a stunning upset in the contentious Republican primary race in Sweetwater County.
Pat MaioAugust 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
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
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
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
Cowboy State Daily's Live Election Night Coverage Of The 2024 Wyoming Primary Election
Cowboy State Daily, Wyoming’s largest news organization, will cover the 2024 Wyoming primary election on Tuesday evening with live video coverage beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Jimmy OrrAugust 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
Degenfelder Applauds Supreme Court Ruling Against Biden Trans Bathroom Rules
Wyoming’s top education official Megan Degenfelder on Saturday applauded the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling which blocked the new Biden administration transgender bathroom rule in multiple states.
Clair McFarlandAugust 17, 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
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
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
Landon Brown Says Opponent Playing “Cheney Card” Won't Hurt Reelection Chances
Landon Brown’s Republican primary opponent has resurrected a 2022 CNN interview in which he praised Liz Cheney and called Trump “unfit for office.” He said Exie Brown playing the “Cheney card” won’t hurt his reelection chances.
Clair McFarlandAugust 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
Bob Nicholas Frustrated Over “Dishonest” Mailers Telling "Lies The Size Of Texas”
Cheyenne House member Bob Nicholas is voicing frustration over mailers opponent Kathy Russell is sending out. He says their claims that he wants trans surgeries for kids, LGBTQ books for young children and is friendly to China are "lies the size of Texas.”
Clair McFarlandAugust 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
Targets Of Wyoming Freedom PAC Mailers Send Cease And Desist Demand
Two Fremont County legislators say they may sue the campaign arm of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus if it doesn’t stop sending false mailers to voters.
Clair McFarlandAugust 02, 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
Chuck Gray Defends False Campaign Mailers Targeting Wyoming Candidates
Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Wednesday defended false campaign mailers targeting some candidates. Among other misleading statements, they falsely claim legislators voted to keep former President Donald Trump off the ballot.
Clair McFarlandAugust 01, 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
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
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
Kamala Harris Does 180 On Fracking, Says She Won’t Ban It: Trump Not Buying It
Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, told a national publication that she will not seek to ban fracking if she’s elected. That's a 180 degree flip from what she said earlier.
Pat MaioJuly 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 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