Government & Politics
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University of Wyoming International Students Have Visas Revoked
The University of Wyoming confirmed to Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday that “a few” international students have had their visas to be in the United States revoked. Just how many students and why isn’t clear.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2025

New Top Prosecutor Named For One Of Wyoming’s Highest-Crime Counties
Fremont County has a new top prosecutor for one of the Wyoming’s most crime-riddled counties. Asked how they’d reduce crime, one of three finalists for the job said that “none of us were given a magic wand upon graduation from law school.”
Clair McFarlandApril 15, 2025

Judge Tosses Casper Doctor’s Lawsuit To Get Back On Wyoming Board Of Medicine
A federal court judge threw out Casper radiologist Eric Cubin’s lawsuit against Gov. Mark Gordon on Monday, rendering a blow to his effort to get back on the Wyoming Board of Medicine.
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2025

Wyoming Delegation, Chuck Gray Say Opposition To SAVE Act Is ‘Radical Left’ Hype
Wyoming’s congressional delegation and Secretary of State Chuck Gray say that the federal SAVE Act will not prevent married women from registering to vote. They say those claims and more by Democrats are “radical left” hype and “a complete fallacy.”
Leo WolfsonApril 15, 2025

Legislature’s YouTube Views Explode As Politics Becomes More Of A Spectator Sport
The Wyoming Legislature’s YouTube channel already has nearly 220,000 views this year, more than all of 2024. State politics is becoming more of a spectator sport as more people watch livestreamed meetings and floor debates.
Leo WolfsonApril 14, 2025

Hageman Wants To Ditch Policy That Keeps Non-English-Speaking Truckers On The Road
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman wants the Dept of Transportation to reconsider a policy that allows non-English-speaking truckers on the road. The policy is a “major safety issue for all drivers," she said.
Clair McFarlandApril 12, 2025

Gordon Appoints Attorney General Bridget Hill To Wyoming Supreme Court
Gov. Mark Gordon announced Friday that he’s selected Attorney General Bridget Hill to fill an upcoming opening on the Wyoming Supreme Court.
Leo WolfsonApril 12, 2025

As Senate Debates End To Twice-A-Year Clock-Changes, Lummis Says It’s About Time
A U.S. Senate committee held a hearing this week to promote a push to “lock the clock” and end the twice-yearly clock changing around daylight saving time. Sen. Cynthia Lummis says it’s about time, while John Barrasso says not so fast.
Sean BarryApril 11, 2025

Wyoming Delegation Rallies Behind Trump As Some Republicans Split On Tariffs
A handful of Republicans are joining Democrats against President Donald Trump’s tariffs, but don’t count the Wyoming delegation among them. John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis and Harriet Hageman are rallying behind Trump.
Sean BarryApril 11, 2025

Noem’s Rifle Pointing At Agent’s Face Broke Major Safety Rule, Wyoming Experts Say
Department of Homeland Security Secretary and former South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is taking heat this week after pointing a rifle at the head of an ICE agent during a photo op. Wyoming firearms experts say that breaks a major gun safety rule.
Mark HeinzApril 11, 2025
Barrasso, Lummis Support Selling Off Public Land For Affordable Housing
Wyoming Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis told Cowboy State Daily on Thursday they support a Trump administration plan to sell federal land to help ease an affordable housing crunch.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2025

Barrasso Vows Quick Replacement After BLM Nominee Drops Out Over Trump Criticism
Kathleen Sgamma abruptly withdrew from consideration Wednesday to lead the BLM after a 2021 social media post surfaced of her criticizing President Donald Trump over the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Wyoming’s senior Sen. John Barrasso vows a quick replacement.
Sean BarryApril 10, 2025

State Agencies, Schools And Towns Scramble To Get Rid Of Gun-Free Zones
A new law banning gun-free zones in Wyoming has state agencies and schools scrambling to make rules to implement it by July 1, when it becomes active.
Leo WolfsonApril 10, 2025

Laramie Residents Balk At Guns In Schools, School Board Says There’s No Choice
A crowd of Laramie residents turned out Wednesday evening to tell their school board that they don’t want concealed firearms allowed in local schools. The board said there’s no choice, because the Legislature did away with gun-free zones in Wyoming.
Mark HeinzApril 10, 2025

Barrasso, Lummis Back Atkins To Head SEC As Dems Link Him To ’08 Housing Crash
John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis joined other Republicans in the U.S. Senate in confirming Paul Atkins to chair the Securities and Exchange Commission on Wednesday. The 52-44 vote fell strictly along party lines.
Sean BarryApril 10, 2025

Not Happy With New Law, Gordon Won’t Sign New Rules Without Legislature’s OK
Gov. Mark Gordon isn’t pleased about a new law that gives the Legislature more power to override state agency rules that he has the final say to approve or deny. He says from now on, he just won’t sign new rules until a majority of legislators approve.
Leo WolfsonApril 09, 2025

Brian Nesvik Survives 10-9 Committee Vote To Be Next U.S. Fish & Wildlife Chief
A Senate committee voted 10-9 along party lines Wednesday to advance Brian Nesvik’s nomination to lead the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Cynthia Lummis said she hopes a Nesvik confirmation will mean swift action to delist grizzly bears.
Sean BarryApril 09, 2025

Tariffs A New Wrinkle As Wyoming Legislators Look To Next Biennial Budget
Wyoming legislators are already eyeing next year’s biennial budget and the priorities they would like to see in a changing economic landscape under President Donald Trump. The impact of tariffs is something to account for as are uncertain oil prices.
Leo WolfsonApril 09, 2025

Legislature Wants Tighter Regulations On Wyoming Gaming
The Legislature’s Management Council created a new committee Tuesday that will be directed to get better control on legal gaming in Wyoming. It will make that happen with more regulations on gambling.
Leo WolfsonApril 08, 2025

Trump Calls Out Wyoming While Signing Pro-Coal Executive Orders
President Donald Trump called out Wyoming and its Republican delegation Tuesday at a signing ceremony for his executive orders to boost coal in the nation’s power supply. Wyoming is the No. 1 coal state, but production has shrunk for years.
Sean BarryApril 08, 2025

Lawmakers Consider Stronger Laws After Wyoming 16-Year-Old Stalked, Bullied
Gillian Holman, 16, asked the Wyoming Legislature on Tuesday to study ways to stop adults from stalking minors, and lawmakers agreed. A 41-year-old woman was sentenced last month for impersonating and bullying the girl and another teen.
Clair McFarlandApril 08, 2025

Legislature Cuts Meetings After Summer Committee Bills Go Nowhere
A number of Wyoming legislators complained this past session about interim committee bills that were never introduced, saying it was a waste of time to craft bills that went nowhere. On Tuesday, the number of interim meetings was cut from six to four.
Leo WolfsonApril 08, 2025

UW President Ed Seidel Still Has A Job Day After Faculty ‘No-Confidence’ Vote
University of Wyoming President Ed Seidel was visibly relieved Tuesday following a two-hour Board of Trustees meeting, after which UW said he remains "the president." The UW Faculty Senate on Monday drafted a vote of “no confidence” in his leadership.
Clair McFarlandApril 08, 2025

Former Wyoming First Lady Sherri Geringer Dies, Remembered As ‘Quiet, Classy’
Former Wyoming first lady Sherri Geringer, wife of former Gov. Jim Geringer, died Saturday after battling an extended illness. One longtime friend says she’ll be remembered for her “quiet, classy approach to her work as first lady.”
Leo WolfsonApril 07, 2025

With Wyoming Already The Least Populated State, Rural Counties In Decline
Rural populations in Wyoming are shrinking in more than half of the state's counties, recent Census data shows. Local officials and businesses in rural counties say fewer people makes it harder to thrive.
Zakary SonntagApril 07, 2025

U.S. Senate Moves Fast On Bill Backed By Barrasso, Lummis To Cut Judges’ Power
As court orders halting some Trump administration moves pile up, a new bill against nationwide injunctions is advancing quickly in the U.S. Senate. It’s cosponsored by Wyoming Republicans John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis.
Sean BarryApril 07, 2025

UW President Faces Backlash Over Effort To Fund Partner's School, Dean’s Ousting
UW President Ed Seidel is facing backlash after the demotion of a popular dean of engineering. Detractors say the president backed a failed effort to send engineering money to a UW school his partner runs, and the demotion of the dean who stood in the way.
Clair McFarlandApril 04, 2025
Chuck Gray, Gov. Gordon Squabble Over Approval Of Wind Farms
Tempers flared again Thursday between Gov. Mark Gordon and Secretary of State Chuck Gray. This time they squabbled over two wind farm projects that will lease state land in Niobrara and Converse counties if given final approval.
Leo WolfsonApril 04, 2025

Wyoming Attorney General Hasn’t Prosecuted 16 Complaints Referred By Chuck Gray
Records show that Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill hasn’t filed charges on any of the 16 election complaints referred to her office by Secretary of State Chuck Gray in 2024. She says her office is still investigating half of them.
Leo WolfsonApril 03, 2025

Barrasso, Lummis On Short End Of ‘Meaningless’ Canada Tariffs Vote
Four Senate Republicans broke ranks, voting with Democrats late Wednesday to overturn President Donald Trump’s emergency tariffs on most Canada goods. But Sen. John Barrasso said the vote is "meaningless" because the measure won't get through the House.
Sean BarryApril 03, 2025

GOP Scrambles To Find Top Prosecutor For One Of Wyoming's Roughest Counties
Fremont County GOP leaders are scrambling to nominate three candidates to replace longtime County Attorney Patrick LeBrun in one of Wyoming's roughest counties. So far, two have applied to replace LeBrun, who left Monday.
Clair McFarlandApril 02, 2025

Hageman Tried To Block GOP Rebellion That Shut Down House Floor
Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman says she tried unsuccessfully Tuesday to prevent a GOP floor rebellion that led to votes being canceled for the rest of the week in the House.
Leo WolfsonApril 02, 2025

UW To End Gun-Free Zones July 1 And Allow Concealed Guns Inside Buildings
With the repeal of Wyoming’s gun-free zones, concealed carrying of firearms will be allowed in University of Wyoming buildings starting July 1. It’s already legal to carry outside on campus grounds.
Mark HeinzApril 02, 2025

County Republicans Feuding With State GOP Over Local Party Elections
The way some Wyoming county Republican parties have been conducting their elections this spring is causing some to feud with the state party. In one case, the conflict may have impacted results.
Leo WolfsonApril 02, 2025

Rock Springs Hires Goat Army To Munch Its Way Through Clogged Canals
Rock Springs has weeds, brush and grass clogging vital drainage canals through the heart of town. An army of 300 goats has been let loose to gobble their way through.
Mark HeinzApril 01, 2025

Barrasso, Hageman Take Aim At Nationwide Injunctions Against Trump
Republicans in Congress, including Wyoming’s John Barrasso and Harriet Hageman, are considering legislation to rein in the power of federal district court judges. Some are mulling impeachment of judges, as well.
Sean BarryApril 01, 2025

Tears, Laughter As Family And Friends Give Final Goodbye To Al Simpson
The family and close friends of former U.S. Sen. Al Simpson gave him a final goodbye in Cody on Monday, sharing laughs, tears and hugs. His brother and lifelong best friend Pete got a standing ovation for his tribute.
Leo WolfsonMarch 31, 2025
After Threats Last Week, No Fireworks During Hageman Phone-In Town Hall
A series of combative town halls last week prompted Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman to cancel near-future in-person events. After threats in Laramie and Wheatland last week, there were no fireworks during her Friday phone-in town hall.
Leo WolfsonMarch 29, 2025

Lummis Wants End To ‘Silly’ Restrictions On Short-Barreled Rifles, Shotguns
Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis is a backing a bill to lift 90-year-old restrictions on short-barreled rifles and shotguns. A Wyoming firearms law expert agrees, calling the restrictions “silly.”
Mark HeinzMarch 28, 2025

More Than 100 Wyoming Attorneys And Judges Demand Delegation Protect Judges
More than 100 Wyoming attorneys and judges, including a former governor and two former attorneys general, have sent a letter to the Wyoming congressional delegation. They demand Barrasso, Lummis and Hageman denounce recent attacks on judges.
Leo WolfsonMarch 28, 2025

Trump Cuts $40 Million In Wyoming COVID-Era Health Grants
President Donald Trump’s administration eliminated $12 billion in federal COVID-era health grants Wednesday. Wyoming’s cut of that is $40 million, almost all for the state’s Public Health Division.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2025

Trump Bans Northern Arapaho Tribe's Law Firm From Federal Contracts
The White House this week ordered federal agencies to stop working with a law firm that has earned $500,000 lobbying for the Northern Arapaho Tribe. An attorney at the firm worked on special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation in 2016.
Clair McFarlandMarch 27, 2025

Trump Endorses Cynthia Lummis For Reelection To Senate
President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday night, praising Wyoming Republican U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis. He also gave her an official endorsement for reelection in 2026.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2025

Al Simpson Makes Final Trip To Wyoming Capitol, Lies In State
Former Wyoming U.S. Sen Al Simpson’s casket was brought into the Wyoming Capitol on Thursday to lie in state for two days. Best friend to President George H.W. Bush and decades-long legislator, Simpson’s March 14 death was international news.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2025

Lummis Says Hegseth Shouldn’t Resign After Reporter Allowed In On Attack Plans
Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis defended Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth when speaking with reporters Wednesday about a security breach that allowed a reporter into a chat outlining sensitive attack plans. She said he shouldn’t be forced to resign.
Leo WolfsonMarch 27, 2025

Gordon, Delegation Champion Brian Nesvik To Lead U.S. Fish And Wildlife Service
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon joined the state’s congressional delegation Wednesday in endorsing Wyoming native Brian Nesvik as the next director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. He was also opposed by the Sierra Club at his confirmation hearing.
Sean BarryMarch 26, 2025

Delegation: ‘No Truth’ To Report Rock Springs Social Security Office On Cut List
Democrats say Social Security is under siege, but Wyoming’s congressional delegation says that’s not true. They also say there’s “no truth whatsoever” to reports the Rock Springs field office is on a cut list.
Sean BarryMarch 25, 2025

Starting April 1, Wyoming Post Offices May Lose Afternoon Mail Pickup
It's still not clear if afternoon pickup for Wyoming wyoming mail will be impacted under the Delivering for America plan, which starts April 1. It could mean Wyoming post offices will lose it.
Renée JeanMarch 25, 2025

Hageman Cancels In-Person Town Halls Over ‘Democrat Threats Of Violence’
Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman has canceled in-person access for two of her upcoming town hall meetings because of “Democrat threats of violence.” She says incidents at recent town halls in Wheatland, Laramie and Rock Springs make safety an issue.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2025

Wyoming Is First State To Require Proof Of Citizenship To Vote In All Elections
Wyoming has some of the strictest voter ID laws in the nation after the recently competed legislative session. That includes being the first state in the nation to require proof of U.S. citizenship for all elections in the state.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2025

Former Wyoming Legislators Win Big In County Republican Party Elections
Former House Speaker Albert Sommers was elected chairman of the Sublette County Republican Party this month. County GOP elections around Wyoming followed the trend of putting former legislators into leadership roles.
Leo WolfsonMarch 25, 2025

Legislators Can Keep Suing Freedom Caucus Over Election Flyers, Judge Says
A Sweetwater County District Court ruled Friday that a pair of Rock Springs state legislators can keep suing the Wyoming Freedom Caucus. They claim the group defamed them in election flyers during the 2024 campaign cycle.
Leo WolfsonMarch 24, 2025

‘Trump Force One’ Parked At Cheyenne Airport A Magnet For Photos And Selfies
President Donald Trump’s family plane remains parked at the Cheyenne Regional Airport on Monday, and has been a magnet for selfies and photos of the jet. The large 757 landed sometime Saturday, and has been drawing attention since.
Leo WolfsonMarch 24, 2025

When The Legislative Mudslinging’s Over, Wyoming’s Capitol Custodians Clean Up
Amid the fast-paced action at the Wyoming Capitol during the legislative session, some workers there often blend into the backdrop without much recognition. When the legislative mudslinging is over, the Capitol custodians clean up.
Leo WolfsonMarch 23, 2025

Trump Administration Calls For More Affordable Homes On Public Land
The Trump administration has called for more affordable homes to be built on public lands. Some builders say using free or low-cost public land would lower the cost of building more homes, and could help ease a longtime crunch for Teton County, Wyoming.
David MadisonMarch 22, 2025

Degenfelder Cheers Dismantling of U.S. Dept. Of Education At White House Signing Ceremony
Wyoming education chief Megan Degenfelder, who attended President Trump's executive order signing which dismantles the Dept. of Education, said Thursday's action was a "historic day for education in America, and a win for American students."
Clair McFarlandMarch 20, 2025

With Approval Ratings At An All-Time Low, Wyoming Democrats Searching For Direction
With national approval ratings for Democrats at an all-time low, the party is searching for solutions. Wyoming Democrats attending a “Gather For Good” rally opposing Rep. Hageman on Wednesday offered few clear answers as to how their party should move forward.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2025

Hageman Doesn’t Back Down As Hostile Crowd Curses Her At Unruly Laramie Town Hall
Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman took on a hostile town hall crowd in Laramie on Wednesday, but wouldn’t back down. More than 500 gathered, many yelling curses to the point of local Democratic Party chair saying he’s “heartbroken” by the behavior.
Leo WolfsonMarch 20, 2025

Environmentalists Push To Block Brian Nesvik As Pick To Lead Fish & Wildlife
Environmental groups are pushing to block the nomination of former Wyoming Game and Fish Director Brian Nesvik to head the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. But a former FWS warden says he’s the right pick.
Mark HeinzMarch 19, 2025

Lummis Wants To Pull $7.5B From Biden’s EV Mandates For Improving Highways
Wyoming Sen. Cynthia Lummis introduced a bill Wednesday that would pull $7.5 billion from former President Joe Biden’s electrical vehicle mandates. Instead, it should be used to improve highways in Wyoming and across the country, she says.
Leo WolfsonMarch 19, 2025

Gordon Holds Veto Party With Law Officers To Axe Second Amendment Rights Bill
Gov. Mark Gordon held a ceremony Tuesday to veto a bill that aimed at protecting Wyoming residents from federal firearm orders. The bill would have allowed people to sue law enforcement agencies for enforcing federal laws that contradict Wyoming’s.
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2025

Boycotts, Name Changes And Backfires: Being A Politician Business Owner
Being a business owner and elected official in Wyoming can often intersect. Sometimes that means supporting legislation leads to boycotts of your business or prompt name changes. Most say the benefits far outweigh the challenges.
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2025

Barrasso Visits More Than 100 Wyoming Troops Stationed In The Middle East
Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso spent Sunday visiting more than 100 Wyoming troops stationed in the Middle East. He praised them for being "in harm's way" and "keeping us safe and free at home."
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2025

Former Wyoming Legislator Cyrus Western Picked To Run EPA Field Office
Former Wyoming legislator Cyrus Western of Big Horn will run the EPA’s Denver field office, overseeing President Trump’s agenda for the Rocky Mountain and Great Plains regions. “When the president asks you to work for him, you don’t say no,” Western said.
Leo WolfsonMarch 18, 2025

UW Breaks Ties With National Ph.D. Group After Trump’s DEI Scrutiny
University of Wyoming has cut ties with a nonprofit allegedly trying to “diversify corporate America.” The move is a response to President Trump’s push for academia to pull away from DEI.
Mark HeinzMarch 17, 2025

Wyoming Health Dept Says Trump Not The Reason $8.4 Million For Vax Ads Ending
The Wyoming Dept of Health has spent about $8.4 million in federal public money on pro-vaccine advertising since mid-2020. It expects the last of those grants to expire this year, but not because of President Trump's new vaccine-skeptical health secretary.
Clair McFarlandMarch 17, 2025

Protesters Get More Aggressive In Targeting Hageman At Rock Springs Town Hall
For the second time in three days Saturday, Democrats and others who oppose President Trump protested and heckled Harriet Hageman. During a Rock Springs town hall, she was met with signs and angry outbursts over her support for Trump and his policies.
Leo WolfsonMarch 17, 2025

Former U.S. Sen. Al Simpson To Lie In State At Wyoming Capitol
Funeral services for Al Simpson have been announced, which includes two days of the former longtime Wyoming U.S. senator lying in honor at the Wyoming Capitol.
Leo WolfsonMarch 17, 2025

Utah To Become First State To Ban Fluoride In Drinking Water
While Wyoming hasn’t passed a statewide ban on adding fluoride to tap water, some communities like Casper, Evanston, and Thermopolis have enacted their own. Utah voted this month to eliminate fluoride in drinking water, the first statewide ban in the nation.
David MadisonMarch 15, 2025

Gordon Vetoes Bill Making New Attempt To Ban Abortion In Wyoming
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill on Friday that attempted a new approach at banning abortion in Wyoming. Gordon said he vetoed the bill because it would add further confusion to Wyoming’s abortion bans that are being considered in court.
Leo WolfsonMarch 15, 2025

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso Joins Jake Nichols To Discuss Al Simpson's Legacy
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso on Friday morning joined Cowboy State Daily radio host Jake Nichols to discuss the passing of former U.S. Sen. Al Simpson and what Simpson meant to Wyoming.
March 15, 2025

Democrats Blink: Barrasso, GOP Win Shutdown Standoff
U.S. Senate Republican Whip John Barrasso dared Senate Democrats this week to block an emergency bill to fund the government. In the end, ten Democrats joined with Republicans and a midnight shutdown was averted.
Sean BarryMarch 14, 2025

Congress Passes HALT Fentanyl Act, Barrasso Says Law Will Cripple Cartels
Congress passed a bill Friday cracking down on fentanyl trafficking — legislation that U.S. Sen. John Barrasso said will cripple cartels smuggling the drug into the country. “They’re running scared," he said. "Now is the time to turn up the heat."
Sean BarryMarch 14, 2025

Gun Advocates Praise Study Showing Citizens Stop More Mass Shooters Than Police
Wyoming gun rights advocate Mark Jones told Cowboy State Daily that a new study showing armed citizens stopped more active shootings than police proved Wyoming was right to repeal gun-free zones.
Mark HeinzMarch 14, 2025

World, Wyoming Delegation Mourns Al Simpson’s Death
People from around Wyoming and the world expressed their condolences over the passing of former Wyoming U.S. Senator Al Simpson, who died Friday morning. His wife Ann told Sen. Barrasso that it was a full moon and “Al went to heaven on a moonbeam.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2025

Former Wyoming U.S. Sen. Al Simpson Dies At 93, Remembered As Gentle Giant
Former U.S. Sen. Alan K. Simpson died early Friday morning at the age of 93, leaving a legacy of a man who transcended Wyoming culture and politics. Standing 6-foot-7, he’s remembered by friends and colleagues as a gentle statesman who truly served Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2025

Hageman Town Hall In Afton Turns Aggressively Feisty Over DOGE, Postal Service
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman was cheered, applauded, heckled and questioned during an aggressively feisty Thursday night town hall meeting at the Afton Civic Center. The loudest reactions were for Elon Musk's Dept. of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the Postal Service.
Greg JohnsonMarch 14, 2025

Governor Signs College Transgender Sports Ban Into Law
Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday signed a bill into law requiring Wyoming colleges to restrict athletes’ participation in sports to biological sex at birth. The law also prohibits schools from competing against other schools that don’t adhere to the same standard.
Leo WolfsonMarch 14, 2025

New Law Aims To Protect Utility Companies And Ratepayers From Wildfire Lawsuits
A bill signed into law by Gov. Mark Gordon aims to put more responsibility on utility companies while also protecting them from lawsuits related to wildfires in Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonMarch 13, 2025

Degenfelder Praises Dept. Of Education Cuts, Says They Will Empower Parents
Wyoming education chief Megan Degenfelder praised President Trump for slashing staff at the U.S. Dept. of Education. "We’re taking education decisions out of the hands of unelected officials and giving them back to parents and teachers," she said.
Clair McFarlandMarch 12, 2025

Gordon Vetoes Attempt To Defund His Energy Project Program
Gov. Mark Gordon has vetoed an attempt by the Wyoming Legislature to defund his $152 million Energy Matching Funds program. The program has been used for energy projects, including fossil fuels and alternative energy.
Leo WolfsonMarch 12, 2025

Hageman Calls For Transfer Portal Changes, Says Josh Allen May Not Have Stayed
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says more regulation on transfer rules for college student athletes is needed. She said Tuesday that the University of Wyoming could’ve lost Josh Allen under the current NIL and transfer rules.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2025

Barrasso, Hageman Applaud Ceasefire Agreement With Ukraine
Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso and Rep. Harriet Hageman are applauding President Donald Trump and his staff for arranging a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine on Tuesday. Now all that remains is a commitment from Russia to play ball.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2025

Cynthia Lummis ‘Gearing Up For Reelection’ To US Senate In 2026
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis’ team confirmed to Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday that she’s gearing up for a reelection bid in 2026. That means there could be an even more crowded field for other statewide Wyoming races in 2026.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2025

John Bear Says There’s Room For More Faith In Wyoming, National Government
State Rep. John Bear wants to see more of a religious presence in Wyoming and national government, no matter the religion. He also wants the government to play no role in guiding religion.
Leo WolfsonMarch 11, 2025

Chuck Gray Calls For Weston County Clerk To Be Removed From Office
Secretary of State Chuck Gray said Monday he wants Weston County Clerk Becky Hadlock removed from office and called for fast action from the governor and attorney general. Gov. Mark Gordon said Gray “likes to make a lot of noise.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 10, 2025

Delegation Questions USPS Plan, With Wyoming Mail Handled In 4 Other States
Wyoming’s congressional delegation questions a USPS plan that would have Wyoming mail handled in four other states. The outgoing postmaster general appears set to roll it out despite advisories it will hurt rural areas, they say.
Renée JeanMarch 10, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Staffer, 70, Walks 70,000 Steps A Week During Session
Cheyenne resident Virginia Clarke, 70, is a ball of energy as a Wyoming legislative staff member working the legislative session at the state Capitol. She walks about 70,000 steps a week, or about 35 miles.
Leo WolfsonMarch 08, 2025

Wyoming Remains A Sea Of Political Red, But There’s A Little More Blue Creeping In
While Republican voters continue to move to Wyoming and help make this famously red state even more red, data reveals that at the same time, there are a few more blips of blue. But they aren't enough to come close to challenging the GOP.
David MadisonMarch 08, 2025

Meet Mike Yin: Wyoming Democrat And Perennial ‘Lone No Vote’ On Bills
House Minority Floor Leader Mike Yin of Jackson was the only Democrat on two of his committees during the 2025 Wyoming legislative session. That set him up to be the “lone no vote” on nearly 30 bills.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2025

Freedom Caucus Claims Victory After Busy 2025 Wyoming Legislative Session
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus claimed victory Friday, saying the 2025 legislative session was a success for the group of conservative legislators, their first holding a majority in the state House.
Leo WolfsonMarch 07, 2025

Last-Minute Amendment Brings $19.5 Million Shooting Complex Back From The Dead
A $19.5 million Wyoming state shooting complex was declared dead after the Legislature refused to pitch in $10 million in state funds. A last-ditch amendment revived the project Thursday on the last day of the 2025 legislative session.
Mark HeinzMarch 07, 2025

37 Days, 165 Bills And 534 Omelets: Wyoming Legislature Closes Out 2025 Session
Rumors that the Wyoming Legislature would add extra days were dashed when leaders of both chambers decided they had enough on Thursday afternoon. The 37-day 2025 session ended with 165 bills passed, five veto overrides and 534 omelets eaten.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 36
The 36th and next-to-last day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session featured overrides of multiple vetoes the governor made and discussion about adding 14% more on to a 25% property tax cut already signed into law by the governor.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2025

Legislature Overrides Governor’s Veto Of Ultrasound Abortion Bill
The Wyoming Legislature on Wednesday overrode Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of a bill requiring women to get ultrasounds before getting abortion pills. The Senate voted 22-9 to override and the House voted 45-16.
Leo WolfsonMarch 06, 2025

Senate Overrides Gordon’s Veto Of DOGE-Esque Bill To Scrutinize State Agency Rules
The Wyoming Senate overrode Gov. Mark Gordon’s veto of a bill Wednesday that will bring DOGE-esque scrutiny to Wyoming’s state agencies and their rules. Gordon calls the law “another solution in search of a problem.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2025

Wyoming Ban On Sanctuary Cities Hits Gordon's Desk
A law banning sanctuary city immigration policies in Wyoming awaits a signature or veto from Gov. Mark Gordon after the Legislature approved it Wednesday. Meanwhile, four U.S. mayors were grilled by Congress over their immigration-friendly policies.
Clair McFarlandMarch 05, 2025

Wyoming Congressional Delegation Mum On Defunding NPR And PBS
A bill to stop funding National Public Radio and the PBS Newshour might seem like a slam-dunk to pass a Republican-controlled Congress. But it's not so simple, says U.S. Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso.
Sean BarryMarch 05, 2025

Wyoming Governor Signs Trans Bathroom, Changing Room Ban Into Law
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed a bill that allows people to sue the state if they encounter a biologically born male in a female-designated restroom or changing room in a public facility, and vice versa.
Clair McFarlandMarch 05, 2025

Dick Cheney Federal Building In Casper Shows Up On Federal Hit List To Be Sold
Dick Cheney has been on President Donald Trump’s political hit list for some time. Now a federal building named for the former vice president was on a Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE) hit list to be sold amid a federal downsizing frenzy.
Clair McFarland & Dale KillingbeckMarch 05, 2025

Gordon Signs 25% Property Tax Cut Into Law, More Relief Still Possible
Wyoming homeowners can plan on receiving a 25% reduction off their taxes due to Gov. Mark Gordon signing Senate Enrolled Act 60 into law on Tuesday night. Even more relief is possible as another bill is still being considered.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2025

Barrasso, Lummis Cheer Trump's Speech and “Commitment To American Greatness”
Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis cheered President Donald Trump's speech to a joint session of Congress Tuesday night. Barrasso said Trump has shown a “commitment to American greatness" while Lummis praised the president's "lightning speed" in getting things done.
Sean BarryMarch 05, 2025

Wyoming Governor Signs Government DEI Ban Into Law
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed into a law a bill banning DEI programs at government agencies, while also vetoing another similar bill. The bill he vetoed, he said, was ill-defined and overly broad.
Clair McFarlandMarch 05, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Recap Day 35
Day 35 of the Wyoming Legislature saw overrides on a few of Gov. Mark Gordon’s vetoes from the previous night and a few other bills sent to his desk.
Leo WolfsonMarch 05, 2025

Wolf Torture Leads List Of New High-Profile Wyoming Wildlife Laws
A “clean-kill” predator law prompted by the high-profile torture of a wolf leads a list of new Wyoming wildlife rules. This 2025 session also saw new regulations for fishing guides and dogs caught in traps.
Mark HeinzMarch 05, 2025

Senate Kills Seven Election Bills, Including Ban On Ballot Drop Boxes
It was a mass-killing of bills in one sitting when the Wyoming Senate let seven election security bills die going into the last week of the session. They were part of a slate of election bills pushed by Chuck Gray, who criticized the move.
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2025

Wyoming Can’t Cut Trees Fast Or Soon Enough, Timber Industry Says
Wyoming needs to kick its timber cutting into high gear or risk another catastrophic wildfire season, foresters told the Legislature on Tuesday. The danger is especially high in the Black Hills region, they say.
Mark HeinzMarch 04, 2025

Wyoming Legislature Overrides Governor’s Mystery Drone Veto
The Wyoming Legislature on Tuesday afternoon overrode the governor’s veto of a bill that gives local officials authority to deal with mystery drones over critical infrastructure. That includes allowing law enforcement to bring them down.
Clair McFarlandMarch 04, 2025

Barrasso Says Senate Democrats Who Killed Federal Trans Sports Law 'Out Of Touch'
Sen. John Barrasso says Senate Democrats are "out of touch" in blocking a federal bill Monday to ban males from female school sports. The move came days after two bills that would have expanded Wyoming’s state-level trans sports ban died, while one remains viable.
Clair McFarlandMarch 04, 2025

Gordon To Sign Bill To Provide $7,000 Per Child School Vouchers For K-12
Gov. Mark Gordon says he’ll sign a bill that creates a universal school voucher system for K-12 and expand the state’s existing pre-K program. That means $7,000 per child to pay for private education for parents who choose it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2025

Gordon Vetoes Bill To Fight Mystery Drones, Wyoming Sheriff Still Worried
Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill late Monday meant to give state law enforcement more options to deal with mystery drones over critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, one Wyoming sheriff says the mysterious aircraft are still being reported.
Clair McFarlandMarch 04, 2025

Gordon Vetoes Bill Requiring Women To Get Ultrasounds Before Abortions
Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill Monday night that would require women in Wyoming get ultrasounds before getting the abortion pill. He called the proposal “personally invasive” and an “often medically unnecessary procedure.”
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 34
With only days left in the 2025 Wyoming legislative session, tempers Monday were flaring over the supplemental budget being scrapped and what that means for the items inside it.
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2025

Gordon Reluctantly Allows New Law Voiding Out-Of-State Driver’s Licenses For Illegals
Gov. Mark Gordon reluctantly let a bill pass into law that voids out-of-state driver’s licenses for illegal immigrants. He says he’s concerned the new law will violate a compact Wyoming has with other states.
Leo WolfsonMarch 04, 2025

Cheyenne Lawyer, Rancher Karen Budd-Falen Accepts Top Interior Department Post
Karen Budd-Falen, a Cheyenne rancher and lawyer, has been named to a high-level post in President Trump’s Interior Department. She tells Cowboy State Daily she accepted an offer to be associate deputy secretary for the department.
Sean BarryMarch 04, 2025

Driskill, Bear Throw Down With Accusations Of Lying, Wasting Tax Money
The legislative session may be winding down, but mudslinging between leading members of the Wyoming House and Senate is in mid-session form. Ogden Driskill and John Bear spent part of the weekend accusing each other of lying and wasting tax money.
Leo WolfsonMarch 03, 2025

Wyoming Homeschoolers “Thrilled” To Be Free Of Reporting Requirement
Wyoming homeschool families say they are “thrilled” with the passage of the Homeschool Freedom Act. It means they don't have to submit their curricula to local school districts.
Dale KillingbeckMarch 03, 2025

Bill Moving Through Montana Legislature Would Let Parents Sue Over Drag Shows
Wyoming lawmakers recently chose not to advance a bill outlawing the use of public money for drag shows. Across the border in Montana, a bill is moving through the Legislature that would let parents sue over "hypersexualized" shows.
David MadisonMarch 03, 2025

Trump Making English Official Language Long Overdue, Wyoming Delegation Says
President Donald Trump’s Saturday order making English the official language of the United States was long overdue, says Wyoming’s congressional delegation. Wyoming has already designated English the state’s official language.
Sean BarryMarch 03, 2025

Senate Rejects Last-Ditch House Compromise To Salvage Wyoming Budget
A last-ditch House compromise to salvage a supplemental budget from this Wyoming legislative session was rejected by the Senate on Monday. It paves the way for a mad dash to cram pieces of the budget into other bills.
Leo WolfsonMarch 03, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 33
Day 33 of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session featured emotional testimony about closing Wyoming’s oldest K-8 school and money for a state shooting complex gutted.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2025

Wyoming Workers Rally At Capitol To Protest Legislature, Trump Cuts
Around 150 Wyoming workers gathered outside the Capitol on Friday to protest moves by the Wyoming Legislature and Trump administration cuts.
Leo WolfsonMarch 01, 2025

Wyoming Delegation Backs Trump After Tense Meeting With Zelenskyy
Wyoming’s congressional delegation voiced strong support for President Trump after his explosive Friday meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. “It’s nice to have a president who puts America first,” Sen. Cynthia Lummis said.
Clair McFarlandMarch 01, 2025

Wyoming Close To Outlawing Buying And Selling Of 'Sexual Contact'
After surviving a close vote Thursday and getting approval from the Senate on Friday, a bill that would criminalize the sale and purchase of “sexual contact” in Wyoming is closer to becoming law.
Clair McFarlandMarch 01, 2025

Keep China Away From US Military Bases, Energy, Say Lummis And Barrasso
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis has introduced legislation to ban anyone affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party from buying property next to federal lands in America. Sen. John Barrasso is a co-sponsor, saying “opening the door” puts national security at risk.
Sean BarryMarch 01, 2025

Wyoming Is Fifth State To Allow Guns In Public Schools Without Special Permission
With its pending elimination of gun-free zones, Wyoming will join New Hampshire, Alabama, Oregon and Utah in allowing people to carry concealed firearm in public school — without requiring the schools’ permission.
Mark HeinzFebruary 28, 2025

Wyoming To Make Rodeo-Themed License Plate In Response To PETA Rodeo Protest
A new Wyoming license plate that will be available next year will feature a rodeo theme. The lawmaker who pushed for new license plates says it was in response to a PETA effort to strip the bucking horse logo from plates because it glorifies rodeo.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2025

Plans For $19.5M Wyoming Shooting Complex Stall As Senate Pulls Promised $10M
Boosters of a $19.5 million shooting complex south of Cody, Wyoming, hoped to start construction in April. Those hopes were dashed Friday when the state Senate declined to release $10 million in promised money for the project.
Mark HeinzFebruary 28, 2025

Property Tax Cut Bill Headed To Gov’s Desk, But Not Without Senator Calling It "Fertilizer"
A bill that would cut property taxes by 25% is officially headed to the governor’s desk, but not without some last-minute opposition from state Sen. Larry Hicks, who compared it to "fertilizer" for failing to provide backfill funding.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 32
The 32nd day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session saw Gov. Mark Gordon let a bill banning gun-free zones pass into law and lawmakers scrambling to smush parts of the supplemental budget that was thrown out on Wednesday into other bills.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2025

Gordon Slams Legislators As He Lets Bill Banning Gun-Free Zones Go Into Law
Wyoming Gov Mark Gordon on Thursday let a bill banning gun-free zones go into law without his signature. In announcing his decision, he said the bill wasn’t about self-defense, rather it was about legislators “grabbing power.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2025

Parts Of Killed Supplemental Budget Getting Pushed Into Other Bills
Wyoming legislators were still grappling Thursday with their decision not to pass a supplemental budget. Instead, they’re trying to salvage parts of the budget by jamming them into other bills.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 28, 2025

Hageman, Barrasso And Lummis Busy Helping Throw Out Biden’s Oil and Gas Rules
Hageman, Barrasso and Lummis are among Republicans who’ve been busy this week helping throw out Biden-era energy rules. They also helped defeat a Democrat-led challenge to Trump’s energy emergency declaration.
Sean BarryFebruary 28, 2025

Casper Legislator Back On House Floor After Open Heart Surgery
State Rep. J.R. Riggins was back on the Wyoming House floor Thursday after missing almost all of the 2025 session with open heart surgery. He was given an ovation by the House, and called the attention “embarrassing.”
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2025

Wyoming Delegation Applauds Choice of UW Grad To Lead Forest Service
A University of Wyoming graduate has been picked as the new head of the U.S. Forest Service. Wyoming’s congressional delegation says Tom Schultz will “make America’s forests healthy and productive again.”
Sean BarryFebruary 27, 2025

Wyoming Trans Bathroom Bans Headed To Governor's Desk
Wyoming legislators passed a bill Thursday that allows people to sue local governments if they allow biologically-born males to use women’s restrooms in public facilities, and vice versa.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 27, 2025

At 25%, Wyoming Senate, House Finally Agree On Property Tax Cut
After the Wyoming Senate and House couldn’t come together on a proposed property tax cut earlier in the week, they agreed on a 25% reduction Thursday. Now it appears on its way to the governor for approval.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2025

Wyoming Legislative Recap — Day 31
A huge announcement about the supplemental budget came on the 31st day of the 2025 Wyoming legislative session Wednesday with the Senate saying it won’t pass a supplemental budget.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2025

Wyoming Senate Drops Bombshell, Refuses To Pass Supplemental Budget
The Wyoming Senate dropped a bombshell Wednesday evening announcing that it won’t pass a supplemental budget this year. It could be the first time either the Senate or House has ever made such a move.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2025

Anti-Wolf Torture Bill Clears The Legislature, Headed To Gordon’s Desk
A bill calling for possible felony charges against people who torture predators cleared the Legislature on Wednesday and is headed to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk.
Mark HeinzFebruary 27, 2025

Forest Service Chief’s Departure Fine By Us, Says Wyoming Delegation
Wyoming’s congressional delegation say they’re just fine with Wednesday’s surprise announcement that U.S. Forest Service chief Randy Moore is quitting. Rep. Harriet Hageman said it was welcome news as he mismanaged the agency.
Sean Barry & Mark HeinzFebruary 27, 2025

Out-Of-State Group Texting Residents To Influence Wyoming Legislature
Texas-based American Action Fund has been sending out a large number of text messages and mailers to Wyoming residents. The messages urge people to pressure legislators on bills such as school choice.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 27, 2025

Montana Bill Would Charge Women With 'Abortion Trafficking' For Going Out Of State
A Montana bill would charge women with abortion trafficking for seeking abortions in other states. Opponents flooded a Wednesday hearing claiming overreach, supporters say it's needed to keep minors from being taken for secret abortions.
David MadisonFebruary 26, 2025

Wyoming Closer To Separate Primaries, Run-Offs For Top Offices, Including Gov.
A Senate committee passed a bill Wednesday that would create separate primary and run-off elections for the state’s top elected offices, including governor. A run-off would be triggered if nobody gets more than 50% of the primary vote.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 26, 2025