Government & Politics | Cowboy State Daily

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonNovember 02, 2024

LaPrele Dam has been standing for 114 years, more than double its original 50-year lifespan.

115-Year-Old LaPrele Dam Close To Failure, Will Be Breached

The aging 115-year-old LaPrele Dam southwest of Douglas is in danger of catastrophic failure, so it will be preemptively breached, state officials confirmed Friday. Whether it will be rebuilt is a question for the Legislature.

Mark HeinzNovember 01, 2024

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

Trump Says Media Misreports Cheney War Hawk Comment As Personal Threat

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

Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonNovember 01, 2024

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

Chuck Gray Bashes Colorado Counterpart For Releasing Voting Machine Passwords

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2024

Homes in a Cheyenne residential neighborhood.

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2024

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

Wyoming Cheers Supreme Court Ruling To Remove Noncitizens From Voter Rolls

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 31, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 30, 2024

State Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Cheyenne, and Chloe Cole, a California activist who detransitioned to go back to being a girl. She testified in favor of Senate File 99.

Wyoming Doctors Do Fewer Trans Treatments On Children Than Any Other State

A national database unveiled this month shows Wyoming doctors do fewer transgender treatments on children than any other state. But the sponsor of a state law banning those procedures for children says he doesn’t “buy the low numbers” for Wyoming.

Clair McFarlandOctober 29, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 29, 2024

As part of the performance of “The Offering” a Kelly Walsh High School band member acts out a stabbing during a “sacrifice” on an altar.

Mock Sacrifice In Casper Marching Band Routine Draws Outrage From Parents

A controversial marching band performance that included acting out a sacrificial stabbing on an altar was the target of praise and outrage from local parents at a Monday meeting of the Natrona County School District Board of Education.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 29, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 29, 2024

Members of the "Old Farts Society" Chuck Butler, George Dunlap and the group's oldest member, 90-year-old Bill Todd, get together at The Local in Gillette weekdays at 8 a.m. to solve the problems of the world.

Wyoming Coffee Klatch: Gillette’s Old Farts Talk Energy, Trump And “Ridiculous” Tax

At a meeting of the Gillette Old Farts Society coffee klatch earlier this week, one member said, "We're all a bunch of rednecks, and we think you should get to keep what you earn. So, if you work your butt off and earn money, you should get to keep it.”

Jen KocherOctober 27, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 26, 2024

A sign urging people to vote "no" on a half-cent tax question on the Fremont County, Wyoming, ballot.

Fremont County Group Fights To Kill Tax Grants To Private Businesses

Fremont County residents and visitors have poured $14.7 million of their tax dollars into economic development and transportation services since April 2021. An “axe the tax” group is trying to kill the tax this election cycle.

Clair McFarlandOctober 26, 2024

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

Legislature Advances Proposal To Show Live, Electronic Scoring Of Votes

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 25, 2024

Skull Creek Rim in Wyoming's Red Desert.

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2024

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

Legislature Backs Off Plan To Limit Press Access At Wyoming Capitol

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 24, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 23, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 22, 2024

Burlingame Wasserburger mailers 2 10 22 24

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 22, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2024

Barrasso Joins Trump At Steelers Game; Crowd Gives Ex-Pres Thunderous Welcome

Wyoming's senior senator John Barrasso joined former President Trump at the Steelers game Sunday night in Pittsburgh. Barrasso told Cowboy State Daily the crowd was "overwhelmingly receptive, chanting USA, USA, USA" when Trump was announced.

Jimmy OrrOctober 21, 2024

Vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance at a Sunday campaign stop in Wisconsin said Liz Cheney is "resentful," and has an "obsessive hatred" for the Wyoming voters who ousted her from office.

J.D. Vance Says Cheney Has “Obsessive Hatred” For Wyoming Voters Who Ousted Her

J.D. Vance lashed out against former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney on Sunday. He said her support of Kamala Harris is motivated by an “obsessive hatred” toward Wyoming voters who ousted her.

Justin GeorgeOctober 21, 2024

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

Controversial Laramie Democrat Karlee Provenza Seeks Third Term In House

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 21, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 19, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 18, 2024

Natrona County Board of Commissioners Chairman Peter Nicolaysen addresses the gathering. He told residents that his understanding is that any gravel mining would require a land use permit from the county and a vote by the county commission

Controversial Casper Gravel Pit Not Dead As Company Wants Court To Decide

Although local citizens were thrilled when the Natrona County commissioners killed a controversial gravel pit proposal last month, it isn't dead yet. The company filed a lawsuit on Thursday asking for a judicial review of the county's decision.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 18, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 17, 2024

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, grew up in an old homestead house near McGinnis Pass, located about 8 miles north of Guernsey, Wyoming. The century-old home burned down during the Pleasant Valley Fire.

Hageman says People In Path Of Wildfires Can Thank Feds And Their “Bad Policies”

A devastating Wyoming wildfire season got its start more than 20 years ago with a disastrous Bill Clinton roadless rule, Harriet Hageman said Wednesday. Those in the path of the fires can thank the feds and their “bad policies.”

Greg JohnsonOctober 16, 2024

Wellspring Wyoming Health Access Clinic in Casper.

Casper Anti-Abortion Protesters Want City Council To Stop Harassment

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2024

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

Legislature Considers Limiting Press Access At Wyoming Capitol During Session

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2024

Natrona County School District Chairpman Kevin Christopherson, left, was criticized Monday for a social media post calling the local Moms For Liberty group "Moms for Tyranny." At right is district Superintendent Angela Hensley.

Natrona County School Board Chair Says He’s Sorry For “Moms For Tyranny” Post

Natrona County school board Chairman Kevin Christopherson apologized Monday for calling local Moms For Liberty candidates “moms for tyranny.” He also said the two Moms For Liberty members already on the school board are “unhelpful.”

Dale KillingbeckOctober 15, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 15, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 14, 2024

The Pilot Travel Center at 289 Bear River Drive in Evanston, Wyoming.

Wyoming Supreme Court Says State Has To Pay Some County Tax Bills

The Wyoming Supreme Court ruled last week that the state has to pay a Uinta County $8,160 in property tax for leasing a truck stop on state land. The ruling is likely to raise lease rates on state lands.

Clair McFarlandOctober 14, 2024

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

Trump Shouts Out Harriet Hageman, Chuck Gray At Colorado Rally

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 12, 2024

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

Massive Early Voting Turnout Surge Shatters Records Across Wyoming

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

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

Wyoming’s Huge Wildfires Prompt National Online Conspiracy Theories

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 11, 2024

Miller Elementary School at 3501 Evans Ave. in Cheyenne would be closed in 2025, the first of eight elementary schools that would go offline in a Laramie County School District plan that also would rebuild Arp Elementary and two new schools.

Cheyenne School Board Votes To Close 8 Schools, Parents Want A Re-Vote

The Laramie County School Board voted this week to close eight Cheyenne elementary schools, rescue one and build another. But some parents want a re-vote of what amounts to a “massive overhaul” of the school district.

Clair McFarlandOctober 11, 2024

Radioactive waste Getty Images 53180578 10 10 24

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 10, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 10, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 09, 2024

Natrona County Finally Claims Road It Maintained For Decades But Never Owned

After decades of maintaining and treating Natrona County Road 505 on the back side of Casper Mountain as a public road, it finally is. County commissioners voted Wednesday to legally claim the road and end a dispute with private landowners along it.

Dale KillingbeckOctober 09, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 09, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 09, 2024

Weston County Trying To Strongarm Legislature By Appointing Its Own Lawmakers

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 08, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 08, 2024

Wyoming Meteorologist Don Day Skeptical Of Claim Government Controls The Weather

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 08, 2024

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

Colorado State University celebrates during a three-set sweep of previously undefeated San Jose State University on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024, at Moby Gym in Fort Collins, Colorado.

San Jose State Volleyball Loses First Match Amid Trans Player Controversy

After four volleyball programs refused to play a San Jose State University squad with a transgender player, the SJSU women’s team lost its first match of the season, at CSU Thursday. That doesn’t change “the premise of the problem,” a Wyoming legislator says.

Clair McFarlandOctober 04, 2024

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

Gordon, Degenfelder Want Schools To Restrict Student Cellphone Use

Gov. Mark Gordon and state schools Superintendent Megan Degenfelder are urging schools to restrict cellphone use in class. One school that banned the devices this year is delighted with the change.

Clair McFarlandOctober 04, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 04, 2024

Blaire Fleming, left, is a junior on the San Jose State University volleyball team.

Fourth Team Joins UW Volleyball In Refusing To Play Squad With Trans Player

Utah State University is the latest Mountain West Conference volleyball program to refuse to play San Jose State University. Four teams have so far forfeited rather than playing SJSU, which has a transgender player in its starting lineup.

Clair McFarlandOctober 04, 2024

Protestors assembled on the Wind River Indian Reservation last week to dispute the Northern Arapaho Business Council’s rejection of the people’s resolutions, though a quorum of the people comprise the tribe’s legislative branch.

Northern Arapaho Tribe's Governors Won't Do What Its Lawmakers Say

The Northern Arapaho Tribe's executive branch has refused to pass changes passed by its legislative branch. Several tribal members are furious, and emphasize that the executive-branch governors are up for reelection soon.

Clair McFarlandOctober 03, 2024

Fremont County Republicans Boot Chairman Over Poll Watchers, Critical Letters

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris, left, and Liz Cheney.

Liz Cheney Campaigns With Kamala At Birthplace Of Republican Party

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 03, 2024

Residents of the little town of Alpine claime that expansion of a gravel pit on the edge of town could ruin air quality there.

Alpine Is Growing Fast, But Residents Protest Controversial Gravel Pit Expansion

The tiny town of Alpine, Wyoming, has seen explosive growth. But residents say expanding a gravel pit there will pollute the air and water.

Mark HeinzOctober 02, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2024

Sara Burlingame, left, and Jacob Wasserburger

Sara Burlingame Running Against Political Newcomer To Get Back In Legislature

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 02, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 01, 2024

Blaire Fleming, a redshirt junior on the San Jose State University volleyball team.

University Of Wyoming Volleyball Will Forfeit Match To Team With Trans Player

The University of Wyoming volleyball team will forfeit its Saturday match with San Jose State University, which has a transgender player. UW had previously said it would play, but has been under pressure to forfeit from an advocacy group and Republican lawmakers.

Clair McFarlandOctober 01, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonOctober 01, 2024

The opening of the Antelope Creek School in remote northern Albany County provides local public education to ranch families there.

New One-Room Schoolhouse Opens In Wyoming’s “Little Siberia”

It took six years of wrangling with the courts and lobbying the Wyoming Legislature, but finally a new one-room schoolhouse has opened in an area two hours north of Laramie so remote ranchers call it "Little Siberia."

Mark HeinzSeptember 28, 2024

2nd School Drops Match With San Jose State Amid Trans Controversy, UW Match Still On

Boise State is the second college to cancel a match against San Jose State University amid controversy about a transgender player in San Jose’s lineup. Meanwhile, UW will still play SJSU on Oct. 5.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 27, 2024

Fremont County School District 1 Board Treasurer Taylor Jacobs, left, member Mike McConnell and Vice-Chair Scott Jensen at a board meeting last year.

Jackson Lawyer Threatens To Oust Lander School Board Member Over Contract

A lawyer from Jackson representing anonymous clients is threatening to sue to oust a Fremont County School District board member, over the member’s temporary contract as a special-ed evaluator.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 27, 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

Backed up traffic in Jackson, Wyoming, on Broadway Avenue from High School Road to the Y intersection at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 24, 2024. Locals are complaining of the long backups and waits.

Jackson Road Project Turns 5-Minute Drives Into Los Angeles-Like Nightmare Commutes

A major paving project at the south entrance to Jackson, Wyoming, has infuriated locals, extending 5-minute quick drives to more than an hour and severely impacting local business. Townspeople told Cowboy State Daily it's a total cluster.

Clair McFarland & Jake NicholsSeptember 25, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 25, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 24, 2024

UW Volleyball Team Will Play San Jose State Despite Transgender Controversy

The University of Wyoming volleyball team plans to play San Jose State in Laramie on Oct. 5 despite the SJSU having a transgender player. After learning they have a trans teammate, at least one member of the SJSU team is suing.

Clair McFarlandSeptember 24, 2024

Thermopolis Middle School Assembly, 187 students strong, pose during the announcement of their school being honored as a Blue Ribbon School.

Three Wyoming Schools Named Among Nation’s Elite Blue Ribbon Schools

Wyoming schools in Powell, Sheridan and Thermopolis have been named among the nation’s elite Blue Ribbon schools for 2024. They’re among the 356 nationwide recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Jackie DorothySeptember 24, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 23, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 23, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 21, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2024

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

Proposed Laws Could Allow Immediate Removal Of Squatters In Wyoming

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 20, 2024

Chuck Gray Says As A Gun-Free Zone, Wyoming Capitol A “Soft Target”

As a gun-free zone, the Wyoming Capitol and adjacent government buildings are “soft targets,” Secretary of State Chuck Gray said Thursday. He testified for a legislative committee in favor of repealing Wyoming’s gun-free zones.

Mark HeinzSeptember 20, 2024

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

Law Enforcement Physically Removes Woman From Board Of Pharmacy Meeting

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2024

In this screenshot from the official trailer, Daily Wire pundit Matt Walsh goes undercover to make his new conservative-leaning mockumentary “Am I Racist?”

Movie Review: “Am I Racist?” Attacks American Groupthink — Plus It's Hilarious

Clair McFarland writes, "Matt Walsh's new movie “Am I Racist?” claims to be a discussion of racism in the United States. In reality it wages an even broader attack on American groupthink, mainstream media’s gullible streak, and Western culture’s newfound love of victim status."

Clair McFarlandSeptember 19, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 19, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 18, 2024

A crowd of mroe than 100 people give Natrona County commissioners a standing ovation, inset above left, after they killed a conditional usee permit for a proposed gravel pit near the base of Casper Mountain.

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 City Council Ward 1 candidate Jenny Young holds some of her signs after recovering them Tuesday with some help from the Lander Police Department.

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 17, 2024

Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming, is considering rebranding as Yellowstone College.

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo Wolfson & Greg JohnsonSeptember 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 14, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 13, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 12, 2024

Coates Road residents are concerned about the paved and gravel portion of their roads and the impact heavy haul gravel trucks would have on them if a proposed gravel pit is approved.

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

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

Wyoming Delegation Claims Win For Trump In First Debate With Kamala

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2024

Cody Republican Tapped As Next Leader Of Wyoming Freedom Caucus

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 11, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 10, 2024

This billboard at the interseciton of CY and Cascade avenues in Casper is getting more attention as the presidential election season heats up — and since it switched out Biden's photo for Kamala Harris.

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

Schools in Cody have signs explaining that staff on campus may be concealed carrying weapons.

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 09, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 09, 2024

A screenshot of last week’s Natrona County Board of Commissioners work session where Commissioner Steven Freel, bottom left, asks Assessor Tammy Saulsbury a question during her appearance earlier this week. She told commissioners that people are getting more hostile toward her staff when doing their jobs.

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 and GOP Central Committee IMG 2861 9 7 24

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2024

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

Wyoming GOP Worries Flawed Voting Machine Tests Could Disqualify Electoral Votes

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 08, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 07, 2024

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

Like Father, Like Daughter: Now Dick Cheney Endorses Kamala

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024

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

Wyoming Dems Hope To Gain Ground After Freedom Caucus Primary Surge

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024

Hunter Biden and U.S. Sen. Harriet Hageman

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 04, 2024

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

Former Wyoming Legislator And Saratoga Legend Teense Willford Dies At 85

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 03, 2024

Cheyenne Republicans Protest Registered Sex Offender Running For College Board

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

Leo WolfsonSeptember 03, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon durign the 2024 Wyoming legislative session.

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 31, 2024

$In an exclusive interview with CNN's Dana Bash on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris tried to explain her 180-degree flip on fracking.$

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

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

Primary Loser Sues Chuck Gray To Get On General Election Ballot

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2024

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

Gillette Grocer And Legislator Says Kamala Misses Target On Price Gouging

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 30, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 28, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 27, 2024

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

Chuck Gray Skeptical Independent Candidate Got 68 Signatures In 10 Minutes

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 27, 2024

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

Wyoming Fights Biden Program For Immigrants To Become Citizens Through Marriage

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 26, 2024

House Majority Floor Leader Chip Neiman, R-Hulett.

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 24, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 23, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 23, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 22, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

Voting at Lusk North and Lusk South precincts Tuesday for the 2024 Niborara County Primary. In the county's highlight race, JD Williams won in a primary rematch with Allen Slagle.

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

Nan Gilbert, a Laramie County election judge, waits for voters to arrive at the David R. Romero Park polling center. She's been an election judge for 20 years in Cheyenne.

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 won another primary on Tuesday, setting up for a 14th term in the Wyoming Legislature if he wins in November. Without a Democratic opponent, that seems likely.

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 upset incumbent Tom Walters in Tuesday's primary.

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

Scott Smith won his Republican primary on Tuesday. In the background, poll workers bring ballots in to the Niobrara County Courthouse Tuesday night after the polls close.

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

In a stunning defeat, Wyoming House Speaker Albert Sommers, who was first elected to the Legislature a dozen years ago, lost to Kemmerer resident Laura Taliaferro Pearson, who entered politics during the pandemic because of concerns over pandemic masking mandates.

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

State Rep. Ken Clouston, R-Gillette, left, and George Dunlap.

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

Julie Jarvis beat state Rep. Jeannette Ward, who chats at the Liberty Place 4 U party in Casper.

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

Cody Mayor Matt Hall and Wyoming Republican National Committeewoman Nina Webber.

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

Incumbent District 6 Rep. Tomi Strock was baling hay on Tuesday. She ended the day by defeating a familiar challenger for the second time.

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 waits for results at a watch party at Sen. Cale Case's hotel in Lander on Tuesday.

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

State House Rep. Clark Stith, R-Rock Springs, left, campaigns in House District 48 in southwestern Wyoming on Tuesday morning.

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

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

Ongoing Results Of The 2024 Wyoming Primary Election

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

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

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

Barrasso Cruises To Easy Victory In Primary Election

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 21, 2024

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

Wyoming Voters Say Economy, Personal Integrity Among Main Worries

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 20, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 20, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 20, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 19, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 19, 2024

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

Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder.

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 16, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 15, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 14, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 13, 2024

Chuck Gray Wants Quick Approval Of Concealed Carry In Wyoming Capitol

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 13, 2024

Anger Over Wyoming Political Mailers Boiling Over As Primary Looms

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 12, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 12, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2024

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

MAGA-Mania Takes Over Bozeman Ahead Of Trump Rally

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 10, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 09, 2024

Senate President Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower.

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 08, 2024

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

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

Laramie County Republicans File Complaint After Election Equipment Test

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 07, 2024

State Rep. Bob Nicholas, R-Cheyenne, left, and Wyoming Republican Party Executive Director Kathy Russell.

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 06, 2024

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

Pair Of Gen Z Republicans Run For Cheyenne House District Seat

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 06, 2024

Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower.

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 05, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 04, 2024

State Reps. Ember Oakley, R-Riverton, left, and Lloyd Larsen, R-Lander.

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

State Rep. Cody Wylie, left, and Secretary of State Chuck Gray

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

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2024

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

Wyoming Legislators Debate Using State-Owned Land For Affordable Housing

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

Leo WolfsonAugust 01, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 31, 2024

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

Trump Endorses Darin Smith For Wyoming Legislature

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 30, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 30, 2024

$Kamala Harris is backing off her previous anti-fracking stance, but former President Donald Trump doesn't buy it.$

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 27, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 27, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 26, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 26, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 25, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 24, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 24, 2024

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

Gordon Concerned About Misinformation Campaigns Targeting Wyoming Primary Races

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

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

Wyoming Delegation Ads To List Demanding Secret Service Director Resign

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 23, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 22, 2024

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

Wyoming Candidates Angered Over Mudslinging Pre-Primary Mailers

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 22, 2024

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 21, 2024

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

Dozens Of Wyoming Government Agencies Hit In Global Cybersecurity Crash

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

Wyoming Legislature Explores Using State Lands For Affordable Housing

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 19, 2024

Wyoming Democrats Split On Whether President Biden Should Stay In Race

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 18, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 18, 2024

Gordon Congratulates WYDOT Workers For Teton Pass Rebuild

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon on Tuesday thanked 65+ Wyoming Dept of Transportation employees and dozens of private construction workers for their around-the-clock efforts to build a detour on Teton Pass after 200-feet of highway fell off the mountain last month.

Jake NicholsJuly 18, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 17, 2024

WYDOT Studying Ways to Bypass Wind River Canyon Byway

Wyoming transportation officials are studying alternative routes or detours around Wind River Canyon Byway because when there is inclement weather or a major traffic incident, waits can take hours and sometimes days.

Jackie DorothyJuly 17, 2024

Natrona County Officials Remove Road Barricade Erected By Ranchers

Barriers erected by a ranch family along County Road 505 were removed on Tuesday morning per the order of the Natrona County commissioners. The county announced it will now move forward to legally claim the road.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 16, 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

Natrona County Ranchers Block Off Road Claimed By County

A Natrona County ranch couple blocked off a portion of County Road 505 where it crosses their property, potentially impacting two major road projects. One commissioner said, "The county is extremely concerned."

Dale KillingbeckJuly 15, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

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

Wyoming Delegation Hopes America Will Come Together After Assassination Attempt

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 15, 2024

Wyoming At Least One Year Away From Offering Digital Driver's Licenses

The State of Wyoming is at least a year away from offering digital driver's licenses after the legislature authorized the use in 2020. Currently 11 states allow digital driver's licenses on phones and some allow them on watches.

Clair McFarlandJuly 14, 2024

Former President Trump rushed offstage after being shot at during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Trump Shot At Rally, Wyoming Delegation Sends Prayers

Wyoming's congressional delegation sent prayers Saturday evening immediately after former President Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania. Trump is safe, the Secret Service announced after the incident.

Clair McFarlandJuly 13, 2024

The first vehicle travels over a rebuilt temporary fix for the collapsed section of Teton Pass.

Wyoming Did Propose Drilling A Tunnel Through Teton Pass But It Never Went Anywhere

The former head of the Wyoming Dept of Transportation did submit a request to the federal government to drill a hole through Teton Pass instead of maintaining a road over it. But it never went anywhere.

Pat MaioJuly 12, 2024

Group Says It Has 15,000 Signatures Opposing Controversial Casper Gravel Pit

An organized group says it’s gathered 15,000 signatures opposing plans to mine gravel from 300 acres of state-owned land at the base of Casper Mountain. The project’s manager said Thursday the project push go forward.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 12, 2024

U.S. President Joe Biden holds news conference at the 2024 NATO Summit on July 11, 2024, in Washington, D.C.

Biden Insists He's Fit For Office, Calls Zelensky "Putin" and Trump His "Vice President"

Wyoming’s congressional delegation said President Biden’s Thursday press conference, during which he mistakenly called former President Trump his vice president, was another failure.

Clair McFarlandJuly 12, 2024

Key Legislator Worries Activists Could Hurt Wyoming Economy In Oil And Gas Auctions

State Rep. Cyrus Western, the outgoing House majority whip, is concerned that a Lander-based conservation advocacy organization is waging a war on Wyoming’s middle class through the state’s oil and gas lease auction bidding process.

Pat MaioJuly 11, 2024

FE Warren missiles out front Unknown 7 11 24

FE Warren Missile Upgrades Move Ahead Despite Being 81% Over Budget

The upgrade to the missile defense program at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne — which is expected to bring billions of dollars in construction money and thousands of jobs to the community — has come in 81% over budget. Delays have the project now beginning in 2027.

Renée JeanJuly 11, 2024

Vehicles are driving on the new temporary fix for the June 8 catastrophic failure of Highway 22 over Teton Pass.

Permanent Fix For Teton Pass — Rebuild The Mountain — Could Be Done By November

A permanent fix for the catastrophic failure of Teton Pass seems simple — rebuild the mountain. But it's a huge effort that WYDOT officials say could be done by November.

Jake NicholsJuly 11, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 11, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 10, 2024

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

Snubbed By Hageman And Barrasso, No WyomingPBS Debates For Primary

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 10, 2024

Tyler Lindholm runs the Wyoming chapter of Americans for Prosperity.

Wyoming Chapter Of National Libertarian Group Raises Eyebrows With Endorsements

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 09, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 08, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 08, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 06, 2024

Jackson Council Passes Resolution Recognizing 'The Rights Of Nature’

A new resolution from the Jackson Town Council proclaims that nature has rights. But the town's ecosystem stewardship administrator said it's not legally binding and trees, soil and rivers won't have the same legal standing as humans.

Mark HeinzJuly 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

Natrona County contractors work on construction of a lodge at the top of Casper Mountain. The county has said that if County Road 505 is blocked, deliveries of material to the site could be affected.

In Brief: Natrona County Moves Ahead To Take Disputed Road From Landowners

After a judge ruled Natrona County doesn’t own a disputed road it has used and maintained for years, the commissioners said Tuesday they're moving ahead with legal efforts to take the road from landowners.

Dale KillingbeckJuly 03, 2024

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

Wyoming Voter Registrations At Eight-Year Low

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2024

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 03, 2024

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

Wyoming Sues Biden Administration Over ‘Overreaching’ EV Mandates

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 02, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJuly 01, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJune 29, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Demonstrators gather outside the U.S. Supreme Court building Friday, when the court handed down a number of important rulings.

Supreme Court Guts Fed Bureaucratic Rulemaking Power, Wyoming Leaders Rejoice

Wyoming conservatives praised a U.S. Supreme Court ruling on Friday which is being called a “massive blow” to rulemaking power of federal agencies.

Clair McFarlandJune 28, 2024

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has put out a call to declare guns a public health crisis in America.

Wyoming Bristles At Surgeon General’s Claim Guns A Public Health Crisis

U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared this week that gun violence is a public health crisis and called for an assault weapons ban. Wyoming gun owners bristled at the notion and said he doesn’t know what he’s talking about it.

Mark HeinzJune 28, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

Wyoming Has Fastest Growing Elderly Population In Nation

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

Leo WolfsonJune 28, 2024

A BLM sign sits beside Circle Drive or County Road 505 south of Casper Mountain asking for input about BLM trails on its lands.

Judge: Natrona County Can’t Stop Landowner From Blocking Off Road

A judge ruled Thursday that Natrona County cannot stop a local ranch family from closing off parts of County Road 505. The judge said the county doesn’t own the road and they cannot block the landowners from gating it.

Dale KillingbeckJune 27, 2024

Suggested Wyoming license plate from PETA.

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

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

Leo WolfsonJune 27, 2024

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

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

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

Leo WolfsonJune 27, 2024

State Rep. Jeremy Haroldson, R-Wheatland, left, and Gov. Mark Gordon.

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

Gravel trucks were using County Road 505 on June 18, 2024, to haul gravel to the BLM project on Muddy Mountain.

Oops! Natrona County Maintained Rural Road For Years, But Never Owned It

After years of maintaining County Road 505, Natrona County officials sued local landowners when they threatened to block off the road. Turns out, the county doesn't even own the road -- the landowners do. Both sides were in front of a judge Wednesday.

Dale KillingbeckJune 26, 2024

The Wyoming House meets during the 2024 legislative session at the state Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon speaks at the Campbell County Federal Overreach Town Hall in Gillette on June 25, 2024.

Gordon Vows To Fight Coal Mandates As Wyoming Hires Pedigree Law Firm

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon vowed during a Gillette town hall Tuesday to wage a legal fight with the federal government to rollback on federal mandates on coal and other Wyoming energy industries, and the state has hired a pedigree law firm to do it.

Pat MaioJune 26, 2024

Teton Pass Update Evans Construction is already paving the new detour 6 25 24

Amazingly, ‘Catastrophic’ Teton Pass Failure Fixed In 3 Weeks, To Open Friday

Just three weeks after part of the highway on Teton Pass fell off the mountain, Wyoming transportation officials announced it will reopen on Friday. Considered the lifeline between Jackson and Idaho, the detour will have significantly slower speed limits but no weight limitations.

Jake NicholsJune 25, 2024

The new Horse Palace at Swan Ranch just south of Cheyenne was built to target customers from Colorado.

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

Federal Committee Recommends Renaming Devils Tower To Bear Lodge

A federal committee has recommended that the Sec. of Interior change the name of Devils Tower to Bear Lodge. She can't, however, because Wyoming is the only state exempt from the Antiquities Act. Only an act of Congress could do so.

Andrew RossiJune 24, 2024

State Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Cheyenne, and Chloe Cole, a California activist who detransitioned to go back to being a girl. She testified during the 2024 session in favor of Senate File 99.

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

State Sen. Charlie Scott, R-Casper, was first elected to the Wyoming Legislature in 1979. He's running for reelection for a 14th term this year.

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

The intechange of Interstates 25 and 80 in Cheyenne is undergoing construction, but another huge $500 million revamp is in the works.

Overhaul Of I-25/I-80 Interchange In Cheyenne Will Cost $500 Million

The cloverleaf interchange where Interstates 80 and 25 intersect in Cheyenne will get a $500 million overhaul with huge flyover bridges to keep thousands of semitrucks moving freight across the West. It could take up to a decade to complete.

Pat MaioJune 21, 2024

Wyoming Capitol 202420240219 capitol 9704

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

U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyoming, introduced a bill June 20, 2024, to make the bald eagle America's official state bird.

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

State Sen. John Kolb, R-Rock Springs, left, and Jeff Ramaj

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

Casper is likely to lose its daily Delta SkyWest flight to Salt Lake City after the Natrona County Commission voted to pull $600,000 in air guarantee money.

Natrona Commissioners Pull $600K For Air Guarantee, Likely To Lose SLC Flight

After convincing the city of Casper in April to pony up $400,000 to guarantee air service to Salt Lake City, the Natrona County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday pulled it’s $600,000 contribution.

Dale KillingbeckJune 20, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon, left, and President Joe Biden.

Wyoming, Utah First To Sue BLM For Putting Conservation Over Mining

Wyoming and Utah have become the first states to sue the BLM over an obscure rule that weighs conservation over mining interests in how 245 million acres of public lands are managed.

Pat MaioJune 19, 2024

State Sen. Cale Case with a portrait of former U.S. Sen. Lester Hunt in the rotunda of the Wyoming Capitol on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, the 70th anniversary of Hunt's death by suicide.

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

Niobrara County School District 1 board member Joyce Hammer.

Lusk School Board Member Censured For Online 'Threat' To District Employee

A Niobrara County School Board member was censured after telling an employee, “I hope you never piss anyone off,” and that she had intel that could cause the employee trouble.

Clair McFarlandJune 19, 2024

The Econo Lodge Motel at 300 W. F St. in Casper had closed because of water damage, but has since had millions of dollars worth of damage done to it by homeless people squatting inside.

Casper Police Chief Pushes For Anti-Squatting Laws In Wyoming

Casper’s police chief told legislators Tuesday that Wyoming needs criminal laws and penalties to fight a growing squatting problem that’s victimizing home and property owners in his city and around the state.

Clair McFarlandJune 19, 2024

A semi hauls gravel up County Road 505 or Circle Drive for the Muddy Mountain.

Natrona County Sues Ranchers Over Threat To Close Off Road

Natrona County has sued to stop a ranch family from closing off County Road 505 that leads south off Casper Mountain. Turns out, the county doesn’t legally own County Road 505 -- the family does.

Dale KillingbeckJune 19, 2024

VIC, an acronum for Virtual Integrated Citizen, is the first artificial intelligence political candidate in Wyoming, running for mayor of Cheyenne.

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

Crews have been working around the clock to repair what WYDOT has called a "catastrophic" failure of Highway 22 over Teton Pass.

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 Gov Mark Gordon speaks at President Biden’s Investing in America event with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg in Cheyenne on June 17, 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

Former Wyoming House Speaker Fred Parady died on Sunday, June 17, 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 run for the Legislature six times, but has never won. He's hoping his seventh run is lucky.

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

A “catastrophic failure” of Wyoming Highway 22 over Teton Pass on June 8, 2024, saw a huge section wash down the mountain. A long closure of the “lifeline” between Jackson and Victor, Idaho, is expected.

‘Catastrophic’ Teton Pass Failure Had Been Building For Decades

WYDOT is a week into an all-hands-on-deck response to get a temporary fix to a “catastrophic” failure of Teton Pass, but it wasn’t a surprise. It had been unstable and building up to a collapse for decades.

Jake NicholsJune 15, 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

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso celebrates former President Trump's birthday on Thursday.

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

Pro-life supporters rally in June 2023 in Cody at a Wyoming Right to Life Rally on the one-year anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

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

Many people in the southwest Wyoming city of Rock Springs are riled up about a new city ordinance prohibiting temporary yard signs in public spaces around the city, including political signs, as the 2024 election season hits full speed.

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's congressional delegation is pushing for fast action from the federal government to help pay for repairing a catastrophic failure of Highway 22 over Teton Pass.

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

Last School Board Meeting Of School Year In Casper Filled With Sorrow

The last school board meeting of the school year in Casper was not light and upbeat as they usually are this time of year. The two teen murders earlier this year have left Casper and its school community shellshocked.

Dale KillingbeckJune 12, 2024

State Reps. Mark Jennings, top, and John Bear, bottom, are among those pushing to have Gov. Mark Gordon call a special session to fight the Biden administration's 2041 coal rule.

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

Secretary of State Chuck Gray, left, touts the efforts of volunteers to gather 4,000 signatures on a petition for a property tax relief initiative when they were delivered to Cheyenne on May 31. But a Gillette resident, Dale Jonata, has complained that some of those signatures were gathered illegally at post offices and county courthouses, which Gray refutes.

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

Traffic is heavy in Alpine, Wyoming, on Wednesday morning with people commuting from Idaho to Jackson for work. This photo was taken at about 8:30 a.m. heading north on Highway 89.

Wyoming-Idaho Commuters Say Teton Pass Detour Is Brutal

Commuters who live in Idaho and work in Jackson report the four-hour — or longer — round-trip detour after Saturday’s collapse of Highway 22 on Teton Pass is brutal.

Renée JeanJune 12, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck Gray (left) doesn't believe Vic Miller's AI campaign is legal.

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

Wyoming Dems Call Barrasso Anti-Woman For Helping Block So-Called "Contraception Rights Act"

The Wyoming Democratic Party said Sen. John Barrasso is anti-woman for his Monday vote against the so-called Right to Contraception Act. He said the bill would have funneled taxpayer money to Planned Parenthood and created a federal right to oral abortion drugs.

Clair McFarlandJune 11, 2024

Natrona county school district building and jeanette ward 6 11 24

Jeanette Ward Blasts School Policy, Says Kindergarten No Place For Sex Lessons

Dissatisfied with a Casper school board meeting Monday, Rep. Jeanette Ward told Cowboy State Daily that she finds it, “very curious and shocking when educators or former educators get angry because they can’t have conversations about sexual orientation with kindergartners.”

Dale KillingbeckJune 11, 2024

Jim Bridger Power Plant near Rock Springs, Wyoming.

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

VIC, right, is the Wyoming's first AI candidate and creation of Cheyenne resident Victor Miller, right, who says if VIC is elected mayor, the AI persona will make all the decisions of the office, not Miller.

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

View from a drone of the collapse of a secton of Teton Pass along Wyoming Highway 22.

Temporary Detour Around ‘Catastrophic’ Teton Pass Failure Will Take Weeks

A temporary detour around the “catastrophic” failure of Highway 22 over Teton Pass is in the works, but will take weeks. In the meantime, the quickest route to get between Jackson and Idaho will take drivers three to four times longer.

Jake NicholsJune 10, 2024

Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray, left, and President Joe Biden.

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

Jessica Sell Chamber's tenants have been putting signs in their cars to let Jackson, Wyoming, police know they live in the homes they're parked in front of and are not just tourists camping out.

Jackson Town Councilwoman Gets Ticket For Parking In Front Of Her Own House

Jackson Town Councilwoman Jessica Sell Chambers learned she didn’t understand Jackson’s complicated parking rules when she got a ticket for parking in front of her own home. The rules prohibit parking the same vehicle within a single block area for more than 72 hours

Renée JeanJune 08, 2024

One argument PETA makes in its lawsuit over an ad denied by Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport is that the airport displays hunting trophies in its terminal and shows an alleged bias against PETA's views on animal cruelty.

Rock Springs Airport Says It Didn’t Violate PETA’s Rights By Not Running Giant Cow Ad

The Southwest Wyoming Regional Airport’s board on Friday said refusing to let PETA place a giant cow ad in its airport didn't violate the animal rights group’s free speech rights.

Clair McFarlandJune 08, 2024

Thomas Lear and state Rep. Clarence Styvar, R-Cheyenne

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 Razner, left, and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming.

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

Wind River Family and Community Health Care serves the Northern Arapaho and Easter Shoshone tribes on the Wind River Reservation and used to be administered by Indian Health Services before become self-sufficient. The Northern Arapaho Tribe won a U.S. Supreme Court decision Thursday that the federal government has been short-changing its health care funding.

Wyoming Tribe Could Get $1.5 Million Because Feds Short-Changed Indian Health Clinics

A legal fight by the Northern Arapaho Tribe of Wyoming over short-changing Indian health clinics ended Thursday with the U.S. Supreme Court siding with the tribes and saying the law supports the tribe’s claim it’s owed $1.5 million.

Clair McFarlandJune 06, 2024

A number of candidates and incumbents who've lived in Wyoming five years or less are running for office this year, including, from left: Top: Mark Jones, Laurie Bratten and Tom Olmstead. Bottom: Cayd Batchelor, Pamela Mertens, Joe Giustozzi and Marc Torriani.

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

A proposed rule in the Campbell County School District would be the strictest in the state by required a one-year sit-out for varsity sports participation when transfering schools.

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

House District 8 Republican candidates, from left, Steve Johnson, Rep. Dave Zwonitzer and Cayd Batchelor.

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

The lot where Mega Mogul proposed building a massive 360,000-square-foot hotel has landed in limbo after the Jackson Town Council approved a 120-day moratorium on large developments.

Jackson Council Halts Massive 360,000-Square-Foot Mega Hotel For 120 Days

Mogul Capital’s proposed 360,000-square-foot mega hotel at the north end of Jackson has landed in limbo for at least 120 days after the town council put a moratorium on large development projects.

Renée JeanJune 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

Gene Clemetson was escorted out of East High School in Laramie County School District No. 1 while substitute teaching in March. The substitute teacher says he’s been barred from a Cheyenne-based school district after refusing to use preferred transgender names of students.

Cheyenne Substitute Teacher Says He Was Kicked Out For Not Using Trans Names

A Wyoming substitute teacher says he was barred from working in Laramie County School District No. 1 after refusing to use preferred transgender names of students.

Clair McFarlandJune 04, 2024

Wyoming legislators are considering closing a loophole in state law that could potentially allow state military members to be prosecuted for using deadly force to protect military assets.

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

The aftermath of a more than 30-hour standoff between police and a man suspected of killing a Sheridan police officer.

Sheridan OKs $250K For House Destroyed In Standoff With Suspected Cop-Killer

A local woman whose home was destroyed during a 32-hour standoff with a suspected cop-killer in February will get another $250,000 from the city of Sheridan to help rebuild after the city council approved the settlement Monday.

Clair McFarlandJune 04, 2024

A Tesla juices up at a Level 3 fast-charging station at the Frontier Mall in Cheyenne.

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

State Rep. Tamara Trujillo, left, and former state Rep. John Romero-Martinez are cousins and political rivals facing off for a second time for the Wyoming House.

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

The Wyoming Democratic Party meets for its 2024 convention at the Lyric Theater in Casper on Saturday.

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

Dr. Rene Hinkel testifies in 2023 to a legislative committee about the Life is a Human Right Act.

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

Marshall Burt speaks during the 2022 session of the Wyoming Legislature.

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 property taxes in Wyoming will have to come with higher taxes elsewhere to maintain current services, state legislative staff says.

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

Organizer Brent Bien commends his fellow volunteers for the work they completed over the last eight months.

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

Congressional delegation and governor slam Trump conviction

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

Lynda Drum (left) visited the grave of her veteran father Harvey Frisbee. U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (right)

Lummis Demands Answers On Why VA Didn't Show Up To Memorial Day Service

U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis on Thursday said the Veterans Administration needs to explain why they didn't show up to a Memorial Day service in Cheyenne. “On behalf of the nearly 50,000 veterans in my state, I find Monday’s mishap to be completely unacceptable," she said.

Pat MaioMay 30, 2024

A new Level 3 Electrify America charging station in Cheyenne. While the company is building more of the top-level charging stations around Wyoming, most of its EV chargers are Level 2.

Feds Offer Billions More For EV Charging Stations, Wyoming Isn't Interested

The Wyoming Department of Transportation on Thursday said it isn't interested in more federal money to build out electric vehicle charging stations across Wyoming. With only 800 registered EVs in the state, WYDOT said there isn't a need for more.

May 30, 2024

Kris Schamber, president of the Medical Society (left), Dr. Eric Cubin (right)

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

Gov. Mark Gordon addresses the Wyoming Legislature at the beginning of the 2024 session in this file photo.

From Virginia To Alaska, Gov. Mark Gordon Touts Wyoming’s Nuclear Revolution

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon has been touting Wyoming's desire to be ground zero for America's next nuclear revolution, from Virginia to Alaska.

Pat MaioMay 29, 2024

As Wyoming residents and legislators grapple with ballooning property valuations and tax bills, they're not alone. It's happening all over the U.S.

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

After a 32-hour standoff between law enforcement and a man suspected of killing a local police officer, the Sheridan home he barricaded himself in shows the extensive damage done to it during attempts to get to the suspect.

Sheridan May Give Woman $250K For House Destroyed In Police Standoff

The city of Sheridan is considering giving $250,000 to the woman whose home was destroyed during a February standoff and shootout with the man suspected of killing police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee.

Clair McFarlandMay 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

The MineOne Chinese bitcoin operation ordered by President Joe Biden in early May to shut down and sell off is staging to clear out with large turcks and storage pods at the site, which is about a mile from F.E. Warren Air Force Base.

Former F.E. Warren Commander Says U.S. Right To Be Worried About China

The former commander of F.E. Warren Air Force Base said the shutting down a Chinese-owned cryptocurrency mine next to the base is just one example why the U.S. is right to be worried about China’s efforts to infiltrate.

Renée JeanMay 28, 2024

Bill Schott, supervisor of the wastewater treatment plant for the Laramie Public Works Department, stands along a 2-mile stream of nonpotable water treated at the plant, with the effluent eventually making its way to the Laramie River.

Sewage Treatment Plants All Across Wyoming Are Falling Apart

Signs of age are beginning to cripple Wyoming’s sewage treatment system. Some cities are in dire need of tens of millions of dollars to upgrade their systems.

Pat MaioMay 25, 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

Pro-Business Group Pulls Endorsement Over Legislator's Testimony In Support Of Rapist

A libertarian-leaning, pro-business group withdrew its endorsement Friday from Wyoming state Rep Landon Brown because he spoke in support of a convicted rapist at a Thursday sentencing hearing.

Clair McFarlandMay 24, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon, left, and state Rep. John Bear, R-Gillette.

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

State Sen. Tim Salazar, R-Riverton, left, and Elizabeth Philp.

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

Danish white supremacist Emil Kirkegaard is doing business though a Wyoming LLC.

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

Gov. Mark Gordon addresses the Wyoming Legislature to open the 2024 session.

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

State Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, left, and challenger Ann Lucas.

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

The Cody, Wyoming, temple (center) isn't alone in facing local opposition. Temple projects in Fairview, Texas (left) and Heber City, Utah (right) also are facing criticism and even legal action to stop them,

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

A group of 16 Wyoming Freedom Caucus members are demanding Gov. Mark Gordon sue over a recent Biden administration rule that would end coal produciton by 2041.

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

The MineOne Chinese bitcoin operation banned last week and ordered by President Joe Biden to shut down and sell off already is staging to clear out with large turcks and storage pods staged at the site, which is about a mile from F.E. Warren Air Force Base.

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

Texas National Guard troops block immigrants from entering a high-traffic border crossing area along Rio Grande in El Paso, Texas

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

State Reps. Barry Crago, R-Buffalo, left, and Mark Jennings, R-Sheridan.

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

A Laramie County elections staffer directs voters during the 2022 general election in Cheyenne.

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

This parcel behind the site of the former Hitching Post Inn, left, could become an affordable housing development in Cheyenne.

Family Of Cheyenne’s Historic Hitching Post Inn Wants Affordable Housing Near It

Hitching Post Inn family member Stephanie Smith still owns half the land where the famous Cheyenne hotel was located. She hopes to attract an affordable housing project on part of it.

Renée JeanMay 20, 2024

Independent candidate Tyler Cessor and state Rep. Jeanette, Ward, R-Casper.

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

An Honor Wyoming billboard in Rock Springs.

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

Natrona County Coroner James Whipps keeps the cremated remains of indigent people contained in square, box-shaped urns in a fireproof filing cabinet in one of his offices until he can find next-of-kin.

Wyoming Coroner Finds Unclaimed Remains In Shared Coffins Or Shipped Out Of State

Natrona County Coroner James Whipps was shocked to find inconsistent and haphazard treatment of unidentified remains. He found them stored on shelves, buried in communal coffins or shipped out of state. He’s on a mission to change that.

Pat MaioMay 18, 2024

Republican House District 40 Republican candidates Liberty Poley, left, and Marilyn Connolly.

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

Wyoming 5th Lowest In The Country For Flu Vax Rates

Wyoming has the fifth-lowest percentage of residents vaccinated for influenza at 43%. Idaho is the least-vaccinated state for influenza at 38.2% while Massachusetts and Rhode Island are the most vaccinated states in the country for the flu.

Clair McFarlandMay 17, 2024

House Speaker Albert Sommers, left, and Laura Taliaferro Pearson.

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

Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee, left, is honored on the floor of the U.S. Senate on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, by U.S. Sen. John Barrasso.

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

A large sign outside Laramie High School tells people where to vote on Election Day in 2022.

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

Lines were long Monday at the U.S. Postal Service office at Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne.

Postal Service Will Temporarily Halt Plans To Move Mail Processing Out Of Wyoming

A plan that would move essentially move all mail processing in Wyoming to other states and significantly slow mail delivery times has been temporarily halted. The Postmaster General said he would pause the plan until January 1, 2025.

Renée JeanMay 14, 2024

The Old Stoney building in Sundance will likely be the only in the state to qualify for the Wyoming Business Council grant program.

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

A bitcoin mining facility near F.E. Warren Air Force Base just west of Cheyenne.

Biden Orders Chinese-Owned Cryptocurrency Mine Near F. E. Warren To Shut Down

Tucker Fagan, former commander of F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, said the decision to shut down the Chinese-owned cryptocurrency mine near the base was the right call. “We live in a very dangerous world and it's not getting safer” he said.

Renée JeanMay 14, 2024

Women's-rights activist Riley Gaines (in pink) walks with UW sorority members to court on Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Wyoming Sorority Sisters Argue Against Trans Membership In Appeals Court

Six Wyoming Kappa Kappa Gamma members argued in a Denver appeals court Tuesday that their sorority acted in bad faith when inducting a transgender member into their chapter. Women's-rights activist Riley Gaines joined sorority members at the hearing.

Clair McFarlandMay 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 resident Jackie Van Mark wants to follow in her father's footsteps by bringing civility and compromise back to the Wyoming Legislature.

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

This sculpture titled "Breaking Through" is at the main entrance to the War Memorial Stadium parking lot on the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie.

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

Wyoming Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder, left, and Secretary of State Chuck Gray.

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

At the Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union in Cheyenne, students learning their trades are more focused on working and completing their programs than soicial and political issues.

Trade Schools In Wyoming Don’t Have Pro-Palestine Protests

Officials at trade schools in Wyoming said the idea of their students tenting out and protesting for hours or days is not only unheard of, it’s a little bizarre. They said their students were too busy learning marketable skills.

Clair McFarlandMay 09, 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 resident Jimmy Dempsy was turned away when he tried to pay for his $155 public records request at town hall in pennies, 15,500 of them.

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

More than 30 people testified against a proposed apartment building in downtown Laramie before the city council late Tuesday. The council voted to kill the project.

Laramie City Council Kills 88-Unit Apartment Building In Historic Downtown

Citizens cheered on Tuesday night after the city council voted to kill a controversial five story, 88-unit apartment complex in downtown Laramie. One councilman said he "would be run out of town" if he had voted in favor of it.

Mark HeinzMay 08, 2024

Natrona County Coroner Says Suicide Rate An Astronomical ‘Top Four In The World’

The Natrona County coroner says 2024 is shaping up to be a “crazy year” for unnatural deaths, with suicides through the first four months of the year on a record-shattering pace that ranks in the "top four in the world."

Dale KillingbeckMay 08, 2024

The Natrona County commission Tuesday agreed to pay for continued SkyWest Delta Connection service from Casper to Salt Lake City.

Natrona County OKs Another $600,000 To Guarantee Salt Lake Flight

Having already balked at paying the full $1.3 million tab for a year of guaranteeing a Casper-Salt Lake City flight with SkyWest, the Natrona County Commissioners OK’d another $600,000 on Tuesday.

Dale KillingbeckMay 08, 2024

Casper Mountain Preservation Alliance Chairperson Carolyn Griffith thanks people for coming out on a Sunday afternoon to explore the School Section of land at the base of Casper Mountain.

Opponents Of Casper Gravel Pit Threaten Lawsuit If Governor Doesn’t Halt It

A group opposed to a controversial gravel pit planned for state-owned land near Casper Mountain sent a letter to Gov. Mark Gordon on Tuesday threatening legal action if he doesn’t halt it.

Dale KillingbeckMay 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

Wyoming Joins Lawsuit To Stop New Biden Administration Gun Sales Rule

Wyoming has joined 20 other states in suing over a new Biden administration rule to increase licensing and background checks for people who sell guns.

Clair McFarlandMay 08, 2024

The Campbell County Recreation Center in Gillette, Wyoming.

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

President Joe Biden presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Judy Shepard, mother of the late Matthew Shepard and founder of the foundation named in his honor, during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House on May 3, 2024, in Washington, D.C. President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation's highest civilian honor, to 19 individuals including political leaders, civil rights icons and other influential cultural icons.

Judy Shepard, Mother Of Matthew Shepard, Awarded Presidential Medal Of Freedom

Judy Shepard, mother of gay University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard who was tortured and killed in 1998, was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Friday for her LGBTQ advocacy.

Clair McFarlandMay 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 Parents Want To Know Why Sexual Identity Survey Kept From Them

A sexual identity survey reportedly made available to Cheyenne high school students, but not made available to parents, prompted an animated turnout of parents, substitute teachers and others at a Laramie County School District 1 board meeting Monday night.

Clair McFarlandMay 07, 2024

Laramie County School District 1 offices sign 12 5 23

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

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

Many participants walked a 3 ½-mile trail through the School Section to see the nature and beauty of the land.

What’s So Special About State Land Proposed For Controversial Casper Gravel Pit?

Around 100 people showed up Sunday to see for themselves just what’s so special about the “School Section” of state-owned land at the base of Casper Mountain where a gravel mine operation is proposed.

Dale KillingbeckMay 06, 2024

An Amtrak passenger train runs through Colorado's souther Front Range. An effort to connect the Front Range and Cheyenne with passenger rail is gaining momentum.

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 speaks at the 2024 Wyoming Republican Party Convention in Cheyenne.

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

State Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody, and challenger David Hill.

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

Congress giant marajuana pot joint 5 2 24

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

Some Laramie residents worry that a proposed five-story, 88-unit apartment building in this parking lot in the heart of downtown would take up too much space, block views of murals and hurt the historic aesthetic.

Locals Say 88-Unit Apartment Building In Downtown Laramie Would Ruin Historic Vibe

A proposed five-story, 88-unit apartment building in downtown Laramie has the city abuzz with controversy. Supporters say it will provide sorely needed housing. Opponents say it will hog parking spaces and ruin the historic vibe.

Mark HeinzMay 02, 2024

The Lander branch of the Fremont County Library System.

Fremont Library Board Says It Sorted Out Internet Filters, Book Challenges By Deadline

The Fremont County Library board on Wednesday said it’s addressed the age-appropriateness of its books and the county government's demand that it block porn from youth computers.

Clair McFarlandMay 02, 2024

This photo showing U.S. Senate candidate Reid Rasner, left, with U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, center — and others like it — have prompted a lawyer for Hageman to send Rasner a cease and desist letter, saying the photos give the impression Hageman has endorsed Rasner in his campaign against Sen. John Barrasso.

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

State Rep. Dan Zwonizer, R-Cheyenne, left, and Melchor Moore, president of Log Cabin Republicans of Wyoming.

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

The Wyoming Legislature's Select Committee on Tribal Relations meets in Fort Washakie on Wendesday, May 1, 2024.

Committee For Wyoming Tribes Says They Should Get Online Sales Tax

A tax committee serving both American Indian tribes in Wyoming asked state lawmakers on Wednesday to keep allowing online stores to tax natives, while sending those taxes to the tribal governments.

Clair McFarlandMay 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

It's hard to surprise the principal, but Nathan Tedjeske, principal of Cody High School, is shocked to hear that he is the recipient of a 2023-24 Wyoming Milken Educator Award and $25,000. Park County School District 6 Superintendent Vernon Orndorff looks on with excitement and pride.

Cody High Principal Nearly Goes Into Shock Winning Prestigious Milken Award

Cody High School Principal Nathan Tedjeske went wide-eyed and slack-jawed Wednesday when he was announced as a Milken Award winner, considered the “Oscar of Teaching.” He was presented a giant check for $25,000, which comes with the national award.

Andrew RossiMay 01, 2024

The Green River Carnegie Library is in poor shape, but despite rumors it's slated for demolition, it's not. At least not yet.

Green River’s Historic 117-Year-Old Carnegie Library Won’t Be Torn Down — Yet

Sweetwater County commissioners say that, despite social media rumors, there are no plans to tear down the crumbling 117-year-old Green River Carnegie Library. But it could happen sometime, as it’s in bad shape and could be too expensive to fix.

Dale KillingbeckMay 01, 2024

The Stilettos is a Laramie, Wyoming-based drag queen group that helps put on the annual Drag Queen Bingo event.

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

The Fremont County Library's Riverton branch.

Former AG Says County Can’t Replace Library Board Chief With A Commissioner

With a Wednesday deadline to align the Fremont County Library system with community standards or have the county commission replace the board char with a commissioner, a former Wyoming attorney general says that can’t happen.

Clair McFarlandApril 30, 2024

Mark Torriani, left, and Eric Johnston are both running for Anthony Bouchard's state Senate seat.

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

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, opposes a USDA rule to require electronic ear tags for cattle and bison.

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

A rally in support of Medicaid expansion in New York in this file photo. Wyoming legislators have repeatedly rejected Medicaid expansion.

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

Campbell County Public Library in Gillette.

Husband Of Former Gillette Library Chief Wants Incest Book Back In Teen Section

The husband of the former Gillette library director who was fired last year, wants a controversial book with themes of incest and drug use out of the adult collection and put back into the library’s teen section.

Clair McFarlandApril 29, 2024

State Rep. Ember Oakley, left, and Joel Guggenmos.

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

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

The City of Casper designated this house in the 1500 block of Westridge Place a “dangerous” building after drug activity and squatters took it over.

Casper Declares War On ‘Dangerous’ Run-Down And Neglected Properties

If property owners won’t clean up and make safe their run-down and neglected properties that are a drag on neighborhood home values, the city of Casper says it’s going to do it for them.

Dale KillingbeckApril 26, 2024

The main entrance to the Northeast Wyoming Regional Airport in Gillette is Airport Road, which then diverges into four other roads all also named Airport Road.

All Five Roads Into And Around Gillette Airport Named ‘Airport Road’

It’s not just a nightmare for delivery drivers that all five roads leading to and around the Northeast Wyoming Regional Airport in Gillette are named “Airport Road,” it’s become a safety issue.

Andrew RossiApril 25, 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

Supporters of the popular social media app TikTok rally in Washington, D.C., ahead of Wednesday's move to ban the platform if its Chinese ownership doesn't sell it.

Is TikTok Protected Speech Or Threat To Americans? Wyoming Legislators Split

With a potential United States ban on TikTok passing Wednesday, Wyoming legislators are split on whether that’s a blow to protected free speech or acting to suppress a serious security threat.

Clair McFarlandApril 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

A pair of Casper Republicans — Pete Fox, left, and Elissa Campbell — have announced they're running for the state House seat held by longtime Rep. Jerry Obermuller, who isn't running for re-election.

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

State Rep. John Bear, R-Gillette, left, and U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming.

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

State Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper, left, and Julie Jarvis.

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

The Natrona County Board of Education heard from nearly a dozen parents and concerned citizens about the culture of violence and bullying that exists in the school district on Monday.

Parents Tell Casper School Board That Schools Are Unsafe

Natrona County School board members on Monday got an earful from passionate parents and residents about how the district is failing students who are bullied, attempt suicide and refuse to go to school out of fear.

Dale KillingbeckApril 23, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, from left, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman and U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, all R-Wyoming.

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

More than 300 Republicans turned out for the Wyoming GOP convention in Cheyenne on Saturday.

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

State Rep. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams, R-Cody.

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

Chugwater, Wyoming, Could Get Smaller With Landowners Trying To De-Annex Themselves

The tiny town of Chugwater might soon get a lot smaller with three landowners filing a petition to de-annex from the city and take 172 acres with them. They say they don't use any city services, so they want out.

Renée JeanApril 21, 2024

Park County delegate Vince Kanata, left, and Carbon County delegate Joey Correnti talk during the GOP state convention Saturday in Cheyenne. They came down on opposite sides of a debate about whether to allow parties to remove precinct committee members who miss too many meetings. Vanata supported the measure, which passed, while Correnti opposed it.

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

Secretary of State Chuck Gray (right) speaks at the Wyoming Republican Convention on Saturday, April 20, 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

Former US Sen. Malcolm Wallop: The Wyoming Rancher Who Helped Save Israel

While many praised former President Ronald Reagan this week for backing the program Israel used to defend itself again Iran, it was actually Wyoming U.S. Sen. Malcolm Wallop who started pushing "Star Wars" into existence before Reagan was even in office.

Clair McFarlandApril 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

Wyoming To Fill 100-Year-Old Coal Mine Under I-80 Before It Caves In

In a few weeks, expect potential traffic delays in Rock Springs along the four-lane Interstate 80 when Wyoming begins pumping cement into a more than 100-year-old coal mine under the highway before it caves in.

Pat MaioApril 19, 2024

Former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, Tulsi Gabbard, has ditched that part and is a fast riser among the national Republican ranks.

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 lawyer Brian Shuck, left, and Joey Correnti talk about an amendment during Thursday's state GOP Bylaws Committee meeting.

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

Gov. Mark Gordon addresses the Wyoming Legislature at the start of the 2024 session.

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

Customers line up in the U.S. Post Office on Converse Avenue in Cheyenne.

Bill Would Block Postal Service Plan to Downsize Wyoming Mail Centers

Wyoming’s congressional delegaton has united around a bipartisan bill that would block the U.S. Postal Service’s plans to eliminate major mail centers in Wyoming and other states.

Renée JeanApril 18, 2024

Fremont County Library Board Chair Carrie Johnson, back-facing, and board member Kristen McClelland, center, sparred over whether the library should implement parental checkout restrictions.

Under Threat Of Takeover, Fremont County Library Changes Sex Book Policies

Under pressure from county commissioners to change how it handles controversial and sexually-themed material or lose its board chair, the Fremont County Library Board approved a handful of changes Wednesday.

Clair McFarlandApril 18, 2024

The headquarters of the Wyoming Republican Party in downtown Cheyenne.

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

Gov. Mark Gordon's veto of money for a failing water tower in Wheatland continues to make waves in state Republican circles.

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

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso officially announced his reelection campaign Wednesday, but he's already putting it out there, like this billboard on eastbound Interstate 80 just west of Cheyenne.

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

Casper Firm Takes Next Step Toward Gravel Mining With DEQ Filing

Prism Logistics has taken the next step with its plans to mine gravel at the base of Casper Mountain by filing with Wyoming its intent to operate on state-owned land.

Dale KillingbeckApril 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

Rocky Mountain Power Wants Another 12.3% Wyoming Rate Increase

Rocky Mountain Power announced Tuesday that it wants to raise monthly power bills for 144,511 Wyoming customers by 12.3%, or about $139.4 million for residential, commercial and industrial customers.

Pat MaioApril 16, 2024

U.S. President Joe Biden gives remarks virtually to the National Action Network Convention from the South Court Auditorium in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on April 12, 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

Nobody showed up to show support for a small PETA protest at the Wyoming Capitol in Cheyenne on Monday.

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

WYDOT Trying To Stop Google Maps Stranding Motorists In Frozen Nowhere, Wyoming

Google Maps has a bad habit of sending travelers down closed roads in Wyoming. It's led to 28 search and rescues in Sweetwater County alone, leaving motorists stranded in below-freezing weather with 22-foot high snowdrifts. WYDOT is trying to fix that.

Renée JeanApril 14, 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

Clouds of dust are visible in and around Yoder, Wyoming, much of the day from a sand processing plant.

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

Colorado state Rep. Don Wilson, R-Colorado Springs, left a loaded Glock 9 mm handgun unattended in a bathroom at the Colorado Capitol.

Colorado Lawmaker Leaves Loaded Pistol Unattended In Capitol Bathroom

A Colorado lawmaker left a loaded pistol unattended in a bathroom in the state's Capitol, heating arguments about whether Colorado should ban guns altogether from its state Capitol. Wyoming, meanwhile, has been trying to go the opposite direction and allow guns in its state Capitol.

Clair McFarlandApril 12, 2024

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, talks on C-SPAN about the ability of the FBI to conduct warrantless surveillance of American citizens.

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

Mount Woodring in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming.

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

Murphy, the Nation family's pit bull mix.

Town of Hudson, Wyoming, Considers Lifting Ban On Pit Bulls, Rottweilers

Pit Bulls and Rottweilers are illegal in Hudson, Wyoming, but the town is considering lifting the ban. Nationwide, pit bulls are responsible for 67% of dog-bite fatalities, yet a local vet said they can have successful family lives if well socialized.

Clair McFarlandApril 11, 2024

Dean Brantly of Georgia checks out his “dream gun,” a Daniel Defense AR-10 chambered in 7.62 x 51 mm NATO at the New Frontier Gun Show and Western Collectibles Show in Cheyenne in this file photo.

Wyoming Gun Dealers Say Biden’s Move To Close ‘Gun Show Loophole’ Won’t Change Anything

The Biden administration moved Thursday to close the so-called "gun show loophole" for background checks, but Wyoming gun show organizers and firearms dealers said they don’t expect it to change anything.

Mark HeinzApril 11, 2024

FILE PHOTO: Secretary of State Chuck Gray, Gov. Mark Gordon, State Auditor Krista Racines.

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

Wyoming Department Of Health Gives $3,000 For Annual Drag Show; Freedom Caucus Livid

The Wyoming Department of Health has pledged $3,000 to help throw a drag queen bingo event in Laramie later this month. The Wyoming Freedom Caucus said taxpayers should not be funding a "perverted and scandalous event."

Clair McFarlandApril 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

State Senate Vice President Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan

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

Travelers move through the security checkpoint at the Casper/Natrona International Airport.

Casper Council Reluctantly OK $400,000 To Keep Daily SkyWest Flight

Casper City Council on Tuesday reluctantly agreed to commit to up to $400,000 as the city’s contribution to keep SkyWest Airline’s daily flight to Salt Lake City after the county said it won’t pick up the full tab anymore.

Dale KillingbeckApril 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

Campbell County Memorial Hospital 9 12 23

Gillette Hospital Board Considers Allowing Guns In Some Areas

To get ahead of likely continued efforts to repeal Wyoming gun-free zones, the Campbell County Health board of trustees is considering lifting some firearms restrictions at the Gillette hospital.

Mark HeinzApril 09, 2024

An overpopulation of aggressive ravens and the Rawlins Landfill has the city working with the USDA Wildlife Service to poison them.

Ravens Taking Over Rawlins Landfill To Be Poisoned

Because ravens have overrun the landfill in Rawlins, the city and the USDA are targeting them with a special bird poison to control the population. Administrators say they are confident that only ravens will be affected by the poison.

April 09, 2024

The sewage wastewater treatment plant for Kemmerer is 42 years old, and is likely to need to be replaced as part of a $40 million $50 million improvement to the region’s sewage needs.

Kemmerer’s 42-Year-Old Sewage Plant Not Up To Demands Of New Energy Projects

With 12,000 workers expected to come to the Kemmerer area to work on new energy projects, there is real concern that the 42-year-old sewage plant doesn’t have the capacity to handle the population influx.

Pat MaioApril 08, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon addresses the 2024 Wyoming legislative session.

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

The State Land Board meets Casper to discuss, among other issues, a controversial proposed gravel mine operation.

About-Face: Wyoming Land Board Now Wants Out Of Controversial Gravel Pit Leases

After hours of testimony from a more-than-packed room, the State Land Board did an about-face, voting to see if it can reverse its previous approval of leases on state-owned land for gravel mining at the base of Casper Mountain.

Dale KillingbeckApril 05, 2024

This 560 acres near the Bighorn Mountains is Wyoming state trust land.

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

Former state Rep. Bob Wharff, left, and current Rep. Ryan Berger.

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

Fremont County Threatens Takeover Of Library Board Amid Sex Books Controversy

The Fremont County Commission is threatening to take over the local library board by May 1 if the board doesn't update its policies on sexually graphic literature in the teens’ section of the library.

Clair McFarlandApril 04, 2024

Wyoming Govs. Matt Mead, Nellie Tayloe Ross, Ed Herschler

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

Outgoing Senator Puzzled Why House Speaker Killed Prostitution Bill

Outgoing State Sen. Affie Ellis on Wednesday said she remains baffled why House Speaker Albert Sommers killed a prostitution bill that passed overwhelmingly in the senate. Sommers said it was a matter of prioritization.

Clair McFarlandApril 03, 2024

State Rep. Allen Slagle, R-Newcastle, left, and former Rep. JD Williams.

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

Wyoming Families Desperate For Answers Put Hope In New Cold-Case Laws

A pair of new laws is giving Wyoming families of cold-case victims desperate for answers guarded hope that more money, public scrutiny can break cases.

Jen KocherApril 02, 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

University of Wyoming student candidates Gabe Saint, left, and JW Rzeszut have received endorsements from the Wyoming Freedom Caucus.

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

The roughly 12-mile Barlow Canyon Road is one of several Crook County roads on which some residents would like to see the state-mandated 55 mph speed limit lowered.

Crook County Residents Say Speed Racers On Rural Roads Will Kill People

Crook County residents say some drivers treat unpaved, winding county roads like the autobahn and will result in children getting killed. County commissioners say the Legislature has taken away their authority to set their own speed limits.

Jen KocherMarch 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

After 18 Years, Wyoming Prisons Drops Health Provider That’s Been Sued 1,000+ Times

The longtime health care provider for Wyoming prisons has reportedly been sued over 1,000 times across the U.S., and after 18 years has been dropped in favor of another, possibly more expensive company.

Clair McFarlandMarch 29, 2024

Secretary of State Chuck Gray, left, shakes hands with Gov. Mark Gordon at the beginning of the 2024 Wyoming legislative session at the Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

Longtime Natrona County Commissioner Rob Hendry, left, is running for Senate District 30, which is held by Sen. Charlie Scott, R-Casper.

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

A gay pride flag is displayed outside the U.S. embassy in Moscow.

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

An area near the base of Casper Mountain where a potential gravel pit could go.

Land Board Moves Meeting to Casper, Gravel Pit Opposition Hopes To Have Say

The controversial gravel pit proposal will be a hot topic at the next State Land Board meeting. Secretary of State Chuck Gray had encouraged opponents of the gravel pit to attend the meeting. Now, Gov Gordon has reportedly moved the meeting to Casper.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 27, 2024

The Wyoming Senate meets during the 2024 regular legislative session at the Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

Christopher Dresang, left, and Rep. Tony Locke, R-Casper, right.

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

The Wyoming House meets during the 2024 legislative session at the Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

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

Town of Wheatland officials say they're worried about the destruction that could happen to nearby property if this badly leading 1 million-gallon water tower fully fails.

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

Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, left, and House Speaker Albert Sommers, R-Pinedale.

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

Dozens of huge, mature cottonwoods have come down in Cheyenne recently, replaced by saplings.

Clear-Cutting Cheyenne's Parks: 160+ Cottonwoods Chopped Down & More To Come

There aren’t many trees in Cheyenne. It’s hard to grow them. That’s what makes longtime Cheyenne resident Buck McVeigh so angry at the city for cutting down more than 160 cottonwoods and there’s more to come.

Renée JeanMarch 24, 2024

State Rep. John Bear and Sen. Cheri Steinmetz

Wyoming Legislators Call For Special Session After Latest Round Of Gordon Vetoes

Sen. Cheri Steinmetz and Rep. John Bear on Saturday both called for a special session of the Wyoming Legislature citing Gov. Gordon's vetoes of bills which were overwhelmingly passed by legislators.

Jimmy OrrMarch 23, 2024

Gordon Vetoes Legislature's Defunding Of DEI Programming At University Of Wyoming

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon on Saturday vetoed the legislature's defunding of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs at the University of Wyoming — but he still let the budget defund the DEI office. The latest veto prompted legislators to call for a special session.

Clair McFarlandMarch 23, 2024

"Mark Gordon is a liar," said Wyoming Gun Owners policy director Aaron Dorr (right) after Gov. Mark Gordon (left) vetoed House Bill 125

Gordon Vetoes Bill To Repeal Gun-Free Zones In Wyoming

Gun rights advocates were furious after hearing that Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a bill late Friday that would have repealed Wyoming’s gun-free zones. “Gordon broke a written campaign promise that he made to gun owners. Gordon is a liar,” a Wyoming Gun Owners spokesman said.

Mark HeinzMarch 23, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon says that as Wyoming continues to push to create its own stable token, the U.S. is losing a digital currency arms race with China.

Gordon Allows "Frivolous" And "Superfluous" Parental Rights Bills To Go Into Law Without Signature

Saying the bills undermine local control and don't add much to parental rights already enshrined in law, Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon allowed two parental rights bills regarding education to go into law without his signature.

Clair McFarlandMarch 23, 2024

Wyoming Capitol 202420240219 capitol 9657

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

Sen. Cheri Steinmetz, R-Lingle, left, and Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper

Legislators Say University Of Wyoming 'Flipping The Bird' At People Of Wyoming

Rep. Jeanette Ward said the University of Wyoming is "flipping the bird" at the people of Wyoming by deciding to keep some diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at the school despite the legislature pulling funding for them.

Clair McFarlandMarch 22, 2024

Former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Ohio on March 16, 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

Gov. Mark Gordon, right, addresses the 2024 session of the Wyoming Legislature at the state Capitol in Cheyenne.

Gordon Signs Wyoming Ban On Gender Changes For Kids, But Calls It Intrusive

Although he feels it’s intrusive into the “personal affairs of families,” Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon on Friday signed a bill that bans gender-change treatments for children.

Clair McFarlandMarch 22, 2024

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, speaks during a March 21, 2024, hearing in the House Judiciary Committee about transgender women participating in sports.

Hageman's Bill To Ban Trans Women In Olympics Clears Committee

Despite emotional attacks from detractors, a bill carried by Harriet Hageman to ban transgender women from competing in Olympics and other amateur spots cleared the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday.

Clair McFarlandMarch 22, 2024

The site of the future Cheyenne Classical Academy.

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

Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed a property tax relief bill that would've exempted 25% of a home's assessed value up to $2 million.

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

Members of the new Casper Mountain Preservation Alliance are getting more organized in their fight against proposed gravel mining.

Chuck Gray OK’d Casper Gravel Pit Last Year, But Now Tells Locals He Opposes It

Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray told a crowd of Casper Mountain area residents Thursday he stands with them in their opposition to a gravel pit plan, but wouldn’t answer questions about why he voted to approve it last year.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 22, 2024

University of Wyoming President Ed Seidel said that despite the Legislature defunding the schools Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program, it won't be cut.

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

Riverton Chamber of Commerce via Facebook.

Riverton Cuts Ties With Chamber Of Commerce Over Bungled Money

The Riverton City Council voted Tuesday to strip the Riverton Chamber of Commerce of its duty to distribute lodging tax money after the chamber reportedly overdrew its bank account by thousands of dollars.

Clair McFarlandMarch 21, 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

Natrona County Sympathetic With Locals Opposed To Casper Mountain Gravel Pit

Locals opposed to a proposed gravel pit at the base of Casper Mountain again packed the Natrona County Commission’s meeting room Tuesday as officials said they’re sympathetic to their concerns.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 20, 2024

Natrona County OKs Funds To Bury Years Of Unclaimed Cremated Remains

The Natrona County Coroner’s office on Tuesday okayed $15,000 to bury the cremated remains of 22 unclaimed people. The remains had been sitting on a shelf in the coroner's office for years.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 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

In an aerial view, immigrants pass through coils of razor wire while crossing the U.S.-Mexico border on March 13, 2024, in El Paso, Texas. The wire was placed by the troops as part of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's "Operation Lone Star" to deter migrants from crossing into Texas.

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

YouTube gun channel celebrity Brandon Herrera speaks Tuesday morning in front of the Colorado Capitol building at a rally protesting a proposed “assault weapons ban” bill.

Hundreds Protest, Testify Against So-Called ‘Assault Weapons Ban’ In Colorado

With the so-called “assault weapons ban” bill before the Colorado Legislature, hundreds of gun rights supporters protested at state Capitol in Denver on Tuesday. One of the organizers was Dudley Brown, a Gillette native and president of the National Association for Gun Rights.

Mark HeinzMarch 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

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hosts a fireside chat with rapper and producer Eric B. at The Gentleman's Factory on Feb. 18, 2024, in New York City.

RFK Team In Wyoming, Needs 3,500 More Signatures To Get Him On The Ballot

Independent third-party presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s campaign is crossing Wyoming this week, gathering signatures to get him on the state’s presidential ballot.

Clair McFarlandMarch 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

Gov. Mark Gordon during a bill signing for legislation form the 2024 session.

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

Gary Brown, left, and state Rep. Bill Henderson, R-Cheyenne.

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

Casper Airport Evacuated Over Something Awful In Bathroom

A custodian became ill and was sent to the hospital due to a possible toxic substance in the bathroom of the Casper airport on Monday morning. Authorities were so concerned over the substance in the bathroom that the airport terminal was evacuated.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 18, 2024

Pinedale is the seat for Sublette County, Wyoming's fastest growing county in 2023.

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

Gov. Mark Gordon during the 2024 legislative session.

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

Sheridan Joins Running For $10M Wyoming Shooting Complex

Competition for which Wyoming community will be the site of a sprawling, multimillion-dollar shooting complex just got more intense with Sheridan joining the running with eight others.

Mark HeinzMarch 15, 2024

The Jim Bridger plant in southwest Wyoming.

Gordon Signs Bill Allowing Power Companies To Charge For Carbon Capture Retrofits

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon signed a bill Friday that will allow utilities to charge customers for the costs to make carbon capture retrofits to power plants. The bill had encountered resistance from the Freedom Caucus, which is opposed to the concept of carbon capture.

Pat MaioMarch 15, 2024

Joey Garland, a country musician who lives in Powell, is making a music video for his original song "Trump Train 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

Former President Trump Endorses Barrasso For GOP Whip

Former President Trump on Thursday evening endorsed Wyoming's senior senator John Barrasso for Senate Republican Whip. "John Barrasso has my complete and total endorsement," Trump said.

Jimmy OrrMarch 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

Will Gordon Keep Campaign Promise To Sign Repeal Of Gun-Free Zones?

Then-candidate Mark Gordon promised in a Wyoming Gun Owners survey during his 2018 campaign that he’d sign legislation to eliminate gun-free zones in Wyoming. Now that bill is on his desk.

Mark HeinzMarch 14, 2024

Mark Jones is a vocal Second Amendment advocate and lobbyist for Gun Owners of America, seen here testifying during the 2024 legislative session. He's announced his candidacy for House District 40 in Johnson County.

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

It was a packed house recently for the annual Laramie County Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner in Cheyenne.

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

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon addresses the Legislature on the last day of the 2024 budget session March 8, 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

Lander Educator Surprised With Prestigious Milken Educator Award For Wyoming

Lander Assistant Principal Megan Park was surprised Tuesday morning with a $25,000 cash prize as part of the Milken Educator Awards. The national award is known in education circles as the “Oscars of Teaching.”

March 12, 2024

U.S. Sens. Cynthia Lummis, left, and John Letterman

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

Sex Traffickers Will Have To Register In Wyoming If Gordon Doesn't Veto Bill

Of the five attempts Wyoming legislators tried to change the state’s sex offender registry this session, just one made it to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk. The bill would require human and sex traffickers be added to the state’s sex offender registry.

Clair McFarlandMarch 11, 2024

Kathy Russell, executive director for the Wyoming Republican Party

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

Members of the Joint Conference Committee debate property tax legislation Friday prior to passing the next biennial budget.

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

The Wyoming Senate goes through a final push to approve the biennial budget Friday afternoon.

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

Wyoming Power Plants Can Charge Customers For Carbon Capture Retrofits

A bill allowing Wyoming utilities to recoup the cost of carbon-capture retrofits for coal-fired power plants passed Friday, despite resistance from the Freedom Caucus who are opposed to the concept of carbon capture.

Pat MaioMarch 09, 2024

Wyoming House 1 Vote Short Of Overturning Gordon Veto Of Charter School Funding Bill

The Wyoming House fell one vote short Friday of overriding Gov. Mark Gordon's veto of a bill that would have let state-authorized charter schools get their own grants and receive funding consistently from local districts.

Clair McFarlandMarch 09, 2024

Will gordon veto gun free zones bill 3 8 24

Will Gordon Sign Or Veto Bill Eliminating Wyoming’s Gun-Free Zones?

A bill that would eliminate Wyoming’s gun-free zones is on Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk. Opinions in the Legislature are mixed on whether he’ll sign it, veto it or simply let it pass into law without a signature.

Mark HeinzMarch 09, 2024

Committee Slips School Choice Bill Into Budget After House Killed It

A day after the House Education Committee killed a proposal to allow for another charter school in Wyoming, it was slipped into the budget bill, where it’s so far survived.

Clair McFarlandMarch 08, 2024

Sen. Dave Kinskey, left, and Senate President Ogden Driskill

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

Northern South Park landowner Nikki Gill and her attorney Amberley Baker celebrated the approval of new housing regulations, a first step to needed development.

Affordable Housing Coming To Jackson After Historic Teton County Commission Vote

The Teton County Commission has approved regulations for development in the northern South Park area near Jackson — a major first step in installing affordable housing for which the region’s workforce has been pleading for years.

Clair McFarlandMarch 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

The Wyoming Capitol in Cheyenne is a gun-free zone, but a bill is moving through the Legislature that could lift the designation for many public places.

Only A Veto By Gov. Gordon Can Keep Wyoming’s Gun-Free Zones

A bill to eliminate Wyoming’s gun-free zones easily passed its final vote before the state’s Senate Thursday, 28-8, and is headed to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk where only his veto can stop it from becoming law.

Mark HeinzMarch 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

The Washakie Dinner Center and McIntyre Hall dorm on the University of Wyoming campus.

Resurrected Gun-Free Zones Bill Advances, With Guns In Dorms And Hospitals Still OK

A bill that would eliminate Wyoming’s gun-free zones passed its second reading before the state Senate on Wednesday and is one vote away from heading to Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk.

Mark HeinzMarch 06, 2024

Sam Watt with Platte Hemp Co. at his booth at the 2023 Bear Trap Summer Festival in Casper.

Wyoming Company Will Sue If Gordon Signs Ban On Altered Hemp Derivatives

A law that seeks to close a loophole that has some entrepreneurs adding THC additives like Delta-8 is on Gov. Mark Gordon’s desk for his signature. At least one Wyoming company says it will sue if the bill becomes law.

Renée JeanMarch 06, 2024

Senate President Ogden Driskill, left, and Senate Majority Floor Leader Larry Hicks.

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

Natrona County commissioners said Tuesday’s regular meeting was the largest crowd some of them had ever witnessed in their meeting room.

Largest Crowd In Memory Turns Out To Protest Casper Mountain Gravel Pit

Natrona County commissioners said the overflow crowd that turned out Tuesday to protest a controversial gravel pit proposal on state-owned land at the base of Casper Mountain was the largest they could remember.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 06, 2024

Fremont County Library Board Votes 3-2 To Keep Controversial Books

In a lively debate on Wednesday, the Fremont County Library Board voted 3-2 to keep two controversial books in the young adult section of the library that contain subject matter on child molestation, group sex, anal sex, oral sex, filming of pornography, and other topics.

Clair McFarlandMarch 06, 2024

Members of the Senate Joint Conference Committee, appointed the night before, raise their hands during Tuesday negotiations.

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

Wyoming Senate President Ogden Driskill said the Senate has devolved into a "raw power struggle" between some members and his leadership.

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

House Torches Bill To Add More Charter Schools In Wyoming

After a legislative committee killed a proposal to expand charter schools in Wyoming on Monday, the state House rejected an effort on Tuesday to resurrect it. Had it passed, the bill would have allowed a state commission to approve another charter school this year -- something proponents say is sorely needed.

Clair McFarlandMarch 05, 2024

"Smoke" by Ellen Hopkins is one of two books in the young-adult section of the Fremont County Library that's been challenged.

Two Fremont County Library Books Challenged For Obscenity: Here’s What’s In Them

The Fremont County Library Board will consider challenges of two books in its young-adult section, “Smoke” and “Tricks,” on claims they are obscene with graphic depictions of drug use and sex. Cowboy State Daily has read and reviewed both books. Here’s what’s in them.

Clair McFarlandMarch 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

Wyoming State Senate Committee Kills Bill Eliminating Gun-Free Zones

After passionate testimony on both sides, the Wyoming Senate Judiciary Committee late Monday evening rejected a bill that would have eliminated the state’s gun-free zones by a 3-2 margin. In stark contrast, the House passed the bill 57-4.

Mark HeinzMarch 05, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, speaks with members of the media outside the Senate chamber on Feb. 28, 2024, in Washington, D.C., after Mitch McConnell announced that he would step down as Republican leader in November.

Barrasso To Run For Whip, Not Leader

Though mentioned as one of the favorites to replace Sen. Mitch McConnell as Senate Republican leader, Wyoming's senior Sen. John Barrasso announced early Tuesday he's seeking the Republican whip position instead.

Clair McFarlandMarch 05, 2024

State Sen. Dave Kinskey, left, pleaded for more time to hammer out a budget with the Wyoming House, but Senate President Ogden Driskill, right, appointed a new negotiating committee.

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

Each Wyoming School District Could Get $10,000 To Store Guns, Train Staff

A bill moved to the Wyoming House floor Monday would give school districts $10,000 each to safely store firearms in schools, and also help pay to train staff how to use them.

Mark HeinzMarch 05, 2024

The Naughton Power Plant near Kemmerer, Wyoming.

Wyoming House OKs Bill Allowing Power Companies To Charge For Carbon Capture

The Wyoming House on Monday passed a bill that would push back carbon-capture retrofits for power plants by three years, and for utilities to recoup the cost of it from customers.

Pat MaioMarch 05, 2024

Bill Targeting Deepfake AI Fraud Dies In Wyoming Committee

A bill that would’ve given Wyoming the most expansive law in the nation targeting fraudulent deepfake artificial intelligence videos died in committee Monday.

Clair McFarlandMarch 05, 2024

The House Judiciary Committee hears testimony about Senate File 99, legislation formerly known as Chloe's Law.

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

State Sen. Anthony Bouchard testifying in favor of Senate File 105 on March 4, 2024

Bill To Ban Tracking Of Wyoming Gun, Ammo Sales Heads To House Floor

Speaking in support of a bill that would ban the tracking of gun and ammo sales, Sen. Anthony Bouchard said "everything you buy is tracked and data is sold. The problem is on the gun side, that data could be used for nefarious purposes.”

Mark HeinzMarch 04, 2024

Harriet Hageman and Donald Trump together at a Save America rally in Casper, Wyoming, in May 2022.

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

State Reps. Ken Chester and Karlee Provenza, both D-Laramie.

‘No-Brainer’: Bill To Restore Concealed Carry For Some Felons Passes Easily

A bill to restore the rights of non-violent felons to concealed firearms permits was described as “awesome” and a "no-brainer" by members of both parties in a Legislative committee that passed it Friday.

Mark HeinzMarch 01, 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

200 Rally Against Gravel Pit, Say It Would Ruin Casper Mountain Public Land

About 200 area residents gathered in Casper on Thursday night to rally against a proposal to mine gravel on state-owned land near Casper Mountain. They say it could impact property values, water quality and public safety.

Dale KillingbeckMarch 01, 2024

State Reps. Jeremy Haroldson, R-Wheatland, and Ember Oakley, R-Riverton

Bill Would Help Wyoming Judges Block Parents From Abducting Their Own Kids

A bill that would help Wyoming judges freeze passports and issue other orders to block child abductions by parents or guardians is moving quickly through the Legislature with almost no resistance.

Clair McFarlandMarch 01, 2024

The Wyoming Senate plows through legislation Monday.

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

Barrasso In The Hunt To Replace McConnell As Top Senate Republican

Although Sen. John Barrasso isn't favored to replace Mitch McConnell as the top Republican in the U.S. Senate, analysts say if favorites Sen. John Cornyn and Sen. John Thune "beat each other up enough," Barrasso could rise to the top.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 29, 2024

Wyoming Mining Association Director Travis Deti weighs in

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

State Rep. Clark Stith, R-Rock Springs, supports legislation that would require parents to be notified of any health care treatments for their kids at school.

Bill Banning Wyoming Schools From Keeping Secrets From Parents Passes House

After passing the state House on Thursday, a bill that would ban Wyoming schools from keeping health care secrets from parents or teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity without permission from parents moved back to the Senate.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 29, 2024

Bill To Protect Small Wyoming Home Day Cares From HOAs Moves To Senate

A bipartisan bill classifying small Wyoming home day cares as "residential" so homeowner associations can't forbid them passed a committee vote Thursday and is headed to the Senate floor.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 29, 2024

Wyoming Capitol 202420240219 capitol 9631

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 Albert Sommers and Sen Fred Baldwin 2 28 24

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

Riverton branch of the Fremont County Library.

Sparks Fly At Heated Riverton Library Meeting Over American Library Association

A nationwide controversy over whether the American Library Association still serves local libraries or is trying to radicalize them boiled over in Riverton during a heated library board meeting.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 29, 2024

Only Two Wyoming House Republicans Opposed Bill To Eliminate Gun-Free Zones

A bill to eliminate gun-free zones passed by a massive 54 - 7 margin on Tuesday with only two Republicans voting against it. One said he opposed it because a school district should have the right to decide while another wouldn't return calls or emails to explain his position.

Mark HeinzFebruary 28, 2024

Tate Mullen, government relations director for the Wyoming Education Association, testifies against a bill that would establish an education savings account in Wyoming.

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

State Reps, from left, Jeremy Haroldson, R-Wheatland, Barry Crago, R-Buffalo, and Ember Oakley, R-Riverton.

Wyoming Bill To Make Sex Traffickers Register Clears House Committee

A bill that would make convicted sex traffickers register as sex offenders in Wyoming cleared the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, and now must survive three readings in the House before becoming law.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 28, 2024

Land set aside for non-motorized use is being considered for a gravel mining operation at the base of Casper Mountain. Residents adjacent to the mine are raising opposition.

Locals Outraged Over Potential Gravel Mine Near Casper Mountain

Many Casper citizens are outraged over a potential gravel mine near Casper Mountain. They say property values will plummet and health issues will arise from blowing dust -- not to mention an increase in noise, pollution and impacts to wildlife and rivers.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 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

State Rep. Jeremy Haroldson, R-Wheatland

House Votes To Eliminate Wyoming’s Gun-Free Zones

A bill that would eliminate gun-free zones in Wyoming schools and some other public places was passed by the state House by a wide margin Tuesday.

Mark HeinzFebruary 28, 2024

State Sens. Anthony Bouchard, left, and Charlie Scott advocate on the Senate floor for Chloe's Law.

Chloe’s Law, A Ban On Transgender Treatments For Kids, Passes Wyoming Senate

The Wyoming Senate passed Chloe’s Law on Tuesday, which would ban transgender treatments for kids, sending it to the House for consideration.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 28, 2024

Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, right, addresses the Wyoming House on Tuesday during debate on his House Bill 203, which died.

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

Wyoming Senate Passes Raft Of Reforms For Energy Rates, Policies

The Wyoming Senate on Tuesday passed a number of bills that aim to reform the state’s electricity rate and other energy policies.

Pat MaioFebruary 28, 2024

Bill To Promote Wyoming’s ‘Other’ Outdoor Rec Options Sails Through

Bill to help Wyoming could become hot destinations for outdoor recreation outside major draws sails through Senate committee Tuesday.

Mark HeinzFebruary 27, 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

State Rep. Steve Harshman discusses his property tax relief bill, which was drastically changed during the 2024 legislative session.

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

State Rep. Clark Stith talk about the $1 billion rift between the House and Senate versions of the state budget.

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

Rep. Martha Lawley, R-Worland, supports the Parental Rights In Education Act.

Bill Banning Wyoming Schools From Hiding Gender Transitions From Parents Advances

A legislative committee advanced a bill to the House floor Monday that would require schools to notify parents about changes in the health and emotional treatments their students get, including help with gender transitioning.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 26, 2024

Frontier Arms and Supply owner Ryan Allen, right, conducts a credit card transaction with a customer Monday at the Cheyenne gun shop.

Bill To Stop Credit Card Tracking Of Gun Sales In Wyoming Advances

A bill to ban credit card companies from tracking firearms purchases in Wyoming was passed by the state Senate on Friday. It could prevent what amounts to a federal gun registry, supporters say.

Mark HeinzFebruary 26, 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 Delegation: Everyone Wants Internal Combustion Engines, Enough With EV Nonsense

In a letter to President Biden this week, Wyoming's congressional delegation said internal combustion engines are what everyone wants, and that an EV proposal from Biden to revise emission standards is “a disaster and needs to go.”

Pat MaioFebruary 24, 2024

State Reps. Cyrus Western, R-Big Horn, left, and Steve Harshman, R-Casper, spoke passionately about House Bill 203 on Friday.

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

House Passes Bill Giving Wyoming Parents More Power In Courts, Schools

The Wyoming House has passed a bill that would give parents more power over their children, and courts and schools less.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 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

U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming, tells a packed crowd for a Rock Springs town hall meeting Feb. 22, 2024, that border security is the No. 1 issue facing the U.S. now.

Hageman: Border Security And Immigration No. 1 Threat To US

During a town hall meeting in Rock Springs, Wyoming, on Thursday, Harriet Hageman said the growing border crisis is the No. 1 threat to the U.S., and that we’re only months away from having a new president.

February 23, 2024

State Sen. Dave Kinskey, R-Sheridan, co-chair of the Joint Appropriations Committee.

$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

Senate Committee Passes Bill To Let Wyoming Create Its Own State Guard

A bill allowing Wyoming to organize its own state militia or guard that passed through to the Senate floor Tuesday would be organized with a chain of command, not just a bunch of guys with guns.

Mark HeinzFebruary 23, 2024

State Sen. Larry Hicks, R-Baggs, passed a pair of amendments to the Wyoming Senate's version of the budget that axes all $118 million budgeted for major capital construction.

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

University of Wyoming campus winter 4 25 23

Wyoming House Says UW Can Keep $100K Despite Teaching Transgender Treatments

The Wyoming House of Representatives changed course Wednesday and voted against using the budget to strip $100,000 from the University of Wyoming for teaching gender-transition treatments to medical students.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 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

Wyoming Senate Kills Bill To Make Adults Who Sext Kids Register As Sex Offenders

A proposed law that would have made people who send obscene material to minors register as sex offenders failed to pass the Wyoming Senate on Wednesday.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 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

Natrona County Wants More Help Paying To Guarantee Air Service

An air guarantee agreement with SkyWest to provide service between Casper and Salt Lake City pays off, but Natrona County commissioners said Tuesday they want more help paying for it.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 22, 2024

Peabody Energy Corp.'s North Antelope Rochelle mine in Wyoming's Powder River Basin is the world's largest and most productive coal mine.

Not So Fast: Wyoming Energy Industries Urge Caution On Property Tax Proposal

Wyoming Mining Association chief Travis Deti says a landmark tax reform bill would impact competition in all sectors of the energy industry. "Potential impacts of the bill on the mining industry could be significant," he said.

Pat MaioFebruary 21, 2024

Chloe Cole, a detransitioner who advocates for not allowing transgender surgeries on minor children, speaks with reporters after testifying for the state Senate Labor, Health and Social Services Committee on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 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

Casper Landlords Won’t Be On The Hook For Unpaid Utilities After All

Weeks of back-and-forth debate over whether to make landlords responsible for taking care of unpaid utility bills left by tenants, a split Casper City Council on Tuesday voted against the proposal.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 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

State Reps. Cody Wylie, R-Rock Springs, and Christopher Knapp, R-Gillette

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

Wyoming Tax On Electricity Exports Could Touch Off ‘Arms Race’ If Bill Passes

Wyoming’s largest 19 industrial users consume more than half of the electricity in Rocky Mountain Power’s territory and worry about an “arms race” with other states that want to recover rates if a bill taxing electricity exports were to pass.

Pat MaioFebruary 21, 2024

Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, during a House Revenue Committee meeting Tuesday discussing a property tax reduction and replacement bill.

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

Mark Jones, National Director with Gun Owners of America testifies at the Senate Agriculture Committee Meeting on Feb. 19, 2024.

Explosive Testimony: Aggressive ATF Agents Raided Wyoming Man's Home For Firearms

Last November, ATF agents dragged a Wyoming man from his house in his underwear even as he was screaming that he had a certificate authorizing him to possess firearms, a gun rights advocate told legislators on Tuesday.

Mark HeinzFebruary 20, 2024

A collection of firearms for sale at Rocky Mountain Gun Trader in Cheyenne.

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

Immigrants run towards the U.S.-Mexico border wall after crossing the Rio Grande into El Paso, Texas on Feb. 1, 2024, from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. They had also passed through razor wire set by Texas National Guard troops to proceed for processing by U.S. Border Patrol agents.

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

Senate Panel Considers Banning Some Foreign Property Ownership In Wyoming

Military Affairs Commission on Monday considered legislation that would ban some foreign ownership of Wyoming property considered critical infrastructure for the state and U.S.

Pat MaioFebruary 20, 2024

The House Judiciary Committee discuses House Bill 148, Regulation of Surgical Abortions, during a meeting Monday at the state Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

After Committee Kills Bill, State Can Still Vax Kids Without Parent OK In Emergencies

A bill that would have removed the state’s authority to vaccinate Wyoming kids without parental consent in extreme circumstances was killed in committee Monday.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 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

Senate Will Consider Bill Banning Some Sex Offenders From Working Around Teens

Wyoming Senator Affie Ellis is sponsoring a bill that would ban some sex offenders from working or volunteering at teen hangouts, such as fast-food restaurants and arcades.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 19, 2024

House Revenue Committee Chairman Reps. Steve Harshman, from left, Ember Oakley and David Northrup hear testimony about property tax bills during a Friday meeting at the Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

Anita Roman, tribal liaison for the Northern Arapaho Tribe under Gov. Mark Gordon’s office, shared her anecdotal experience of knowing seven women and one male in her life who have been murdered.

Bills To Give $300,000 To Solve Wyoming Cold Case Crimes Pass Committee

A pair of bills that would give the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation $300,000 to focus on solving cold case crimes were passed by the Judicial Committee on Friday.

Jen KocherFebruary 16, 2024

Adobe Town is one of the most mysterious and unusual outdoors spaces in Wyoming's Red Desert.

Bill To Empower Governor To Challenge BLM Rock Springs Plan Passes Committee

The Wyoming House Judiciary Committee voted Friday to advance a bill that would allow the governor to refuse to provide any resources to help enforce any federal land policy deemed to be against Wyoming’s best interests.

Mark HeinzFebruary 16, 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

Wyoming Freedom Caucus members Jeanette Ward, left, and John Bear. The Freedom Caucus called out 19 House Republicans for voting against Ward's What is a Woman Act.

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

Bills Repealing Gun-Free Zones & Lowering Age Of Concealed Carry In Wyoming Reignite Familiar Debate

Wyoming legislators and advocates on both sides of the gun policy debate will cover familiar ground this legislative session with pending bills calling for the repeal of “gun-free zones” and lowering the legal age for concealed carry to 18.

Mark HeinzFebruary 15, 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

Casper City Council appears to have reversed course on making landlords responsible for city water and sewer bills.

On-Again, Off-Again Plan To Charge Casper Landlords For Unpaid Utilities Off Again

After approving two readings of an ordinance that would make landlords responsible for unpaid utility bills to help recover $700,000 to $800,000 a year in losses, the Casper City Council is having second thoughts.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 15, 2024

State Rep. Barry Crago and Rep. John Bear

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

State Sen. Bo Bitemen, left, and Reps. Mike Yin and Karlee Provenza.

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

State Sens. Chris Rothfuss, D-Laramie, left, and Bo Biteman, R-Ranchester.

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

Alcohol continues to be a major factor in crimes committed in Casper.

With Alcohol-Involved Crimes Up, Casper Councilmember Says It’s ‘Our Way Of Life’

As the city’s police chief briefed the Casper City Council that alcohol-related crimes are on the rise, Councilmember Gena Jensen said there may be a reason for that: Drinking in Wyoming is “our way of life.”

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 14, 2024

The Red Desert is a high altitude sagebrush steppe and dry landscape in southern Wyoming.

Bill Calls For $50 Million For Wyoming To Sue Feds Over Land Use Policy

Wyoming should set aside $50 million, earmarked for lawsuits against the federal government when federal policy hurts Wyoming’s interest, legislators say.

Mark HeinzFebruary 14, 2024

Wyoming Outdoor Rec Fund Gets $6M Every Two Years, But No Way To Manage It

The Legislature is considering ways to pay out $6 million in grants for outdoor recreation and tourism. A Senate bill to do that failed by 3 votes Monday. Now it’s up to the House.

Renée JeanFebruary 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

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming.

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

Rep. John Bear, left, and House Speaker Albert Sommers

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

The 2024 Wyoming Senate meets on Feb. 13, 2024.

Wyoming Senate Will Hear Bill To Outlaw 'Sexual Contact' As Prostitution

Only the Wyoming Senate’s two Democrats voted against a bill that would add "sexual contact" to the definition of prostitution, with one saying laws to protect prostitutes from exploitation would be better.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2024

State Rep. Karlee Provenza, from left, Gov. Mark Gordon and Rep. Tim French.

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

State Rep. Art Washut has introduced a bill that would create a cold case database to aid in helping close the 150 Wyoming cold cases still unsolved since 1972.

Proposal To Give $150,000 To Help Solve 150 Wyoming Cold Cases Advances

A bill that would allocate $150,000 to develop and maintain a Wyoming database for the estimated 150 unsolved cold cases dating back to 1972 has advanced to committee.

Jen KocherFebruary 13, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyoming, voted against a controversial $95 billion foreign aid package because he said the U.S. needs to take care of securing its own borders before it gives billions to other countries to secure theirs.

Barrasso Votes Against $95 Billion Foreign Aid Package; It Passes Anyway

Sen. John Barrasso voted against a $95 billion foreign aid package early Tuesday morning, saying the U.S. needs to take care of the crisis at its southern border “before helping other nations secure theirs.” The bill passed 70-29.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2024

Bill Introduced To Discourage Child Custody For People Who Allow Gender-Change Treatments

Thirteen Wyoming legislators have signed-on to the "Best Interests Of A Child" bill that would sway child-custody battles in favor of parents and guardians who won't allow children to receive gender-change treatments.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2024

State Rep. Bill Allemand, R-Midwest, talks with a small group of pro-Palestine protesters gathered at the Wyoming State Capitol on Monday.

‘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

Senate President Ogden Driskill addresses the Senate about a motion to overturn his decision in the interim to remove Sen. Dave Kinskey as chairman of the Appropriations Committee.

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

‘Red Flag’ Gun Law Money Could Lead To Arbitrary Gun Seizures, Legislator Says

Republican state Rep. Mark Jennings says Wyoming should flatly refuse any federal money tied to “red flag” gun control laws because it could lead to people losing their firearms without due process.

Mark HeinzFebruary 12, 2024

Gov. Mark Gordon addresses the 2024 Wyoming Legislature and gives his State of the State address on Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, at the Capitol in Cheyenne.

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

State Reps. Rachel Rodriguez-Williams and Barry Crago

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

Religious Freedom Expert To Speak In Cheyenne Tuesday

The attorney fighting major and controversial religious freedom cases in the U.S. is speaking at a conference in Cheyenne on Tuesday to discuss religious freedom in the U.S. and how it can be safeguarded for the future.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 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

Hans Odde, deputy Park County Clerk, during a 2022 testing session of the county's vote counting machines.

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

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon and state Rep. John Bear.

Gordon Says Freedom Caucus Criticism Of Him Is ‘Misleading’ And ‘Vague’

A spokesperson for Gov. Mark Gordon says a Wednesday guest column by four members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus about Gordon’s proposed budget is inaccurate, “misleading” and “vague.”

Leo WolfsonFebruary 09, 2024

Al Simpson’s 1986 Bill Was Last Bipartisan Immigration Law Passed By Congress

The Simpson-Mazzoli Act championed by former Wyoming Sen. Al Simpson in 1986 is the last major immigration reform bill passed by Congress. He says the only way to get meaningful immigration reform is for it to be bipartisan.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2024

Wyoming Legislator Wants All COVID-Vaccinated Blood Labeled

Rep. Sarah Penn is proposing a bill that would require all blood donated from someone who has received a COVID-19 vaccine to be labeled so blood recipients could then reject it if they want in non-emergency situations.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2024

Clayvin Herrera, center, took his Indian hunting dispute with Sheridan County, Wyoming, to the U.S. Supreme Court. He's on the court step with his legal team in this file photo.

Wyoming Will Keep Paying To Fight Indian Hunting Court Cases

The Joint Appropriations Committee decided Tuesday that it would continue to pay to help Wyoming counties litigate complicated Indian hunting cases, and other tribal disputes, in court.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 08, 2024

Casper City Council continues to discuss a proposal to make landlords responsible for making good on unpaid utility bills left by tenants.

Casper Council Moves Forward On Making Landlords Cover Unpaid Utilities But Has Second Thoughts

The Casper City Council is one step closer to making landlords responsible for paying delinquent sewer and water bills for tenants with a 6-2 vote in favor of the ordinance. However, there was some apprehension toward the end of the meeting.

Dale KillingbeckFebruary 07, 2024

It didn't take local fire crews long to respond to a grass fire on Rep. Dan Zwonitzer's land near Casper last week.

Wildfire Torches Wyoming Legislator’s Land; Says Rural Emergency Services Are Critical

Wyoming Rep. Dan Zwonitzer's said the wildfire which went through some of his land last week highlights the importance of volunteer firefighters in Wyoming and having rural emergency response services across the state.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2024

Anonymous Mailer Targets Chuck Gray Shortly After He Ok’s Other Mystery Mailers

A new anonymous mailer has surfaced targeting Wyoming Secretary of State Chuck Gray, accusing him of being a RINO and abandoning Republican values. The mailer comes shortly after he determined a pair of unrelated anonymous political mailers were legal.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2024

Texas National Guard troops try to untangle an immigrant caught in razor wire after he crossed the U.S.-Mexico border into El Paso, Texas, on Jan. 31, 2024, from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

Hageman Supports Bill To Allow National Guard To Use Lethal Force At Border

Wyoming Rep. Harriet Hageman supports legislation that would give the National Guard authority use lethal force against "armed invaders" crossing the southern border into the U.S.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 07, 2024

This Will Be The 12th Year Cale Case Will Try To Pass Medicaid Expansion For Wyoming

Wyoming State Sen. Cale Case has unsuccessfully tried to pass Medicaid expansion in Wyoming for 11 years now. Case says he will try again this upcoming legislative session.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2024

Shoshoni Post Office Close To Being Named For WWII Vet & Postmaster Dessie Bebout

Before she was the postmaster of the Shoshoni Post Office for 13 years, Dessie Bebout was one of the first Wyoming women to serve in the Naval Reserves in World War II. Congress is considering a bill to rename the Shoshoni Post Office for her.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2024

Barrasso, Lummis Won't Vote For Immigration Bill That Could Allow 5,000 Illegal Aliens In U.S. Per Day

Sens. Barrasso and Lummis on Tuesday said they were adamantly against a $118 billion immigration bill that could allow 5,000 illegal migrants per day in the U.S., and would funnel billions into Ukraine, Gaza and other war zones.

Clair McFarlandFebruary 06, 2024

Wyoming Republican U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman.

Hageman Says Trans Women In The Olympics Would Be ‘Despicable’

Saying transgender women competing in the Women’s Olympics would be “despicable,” Harriet Hageman is sponsoring legislation that would prohibit trans females from representing the U.S. in the Olympic Games.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 06, 2024

Wyoming Shouldn’t Buy Products Made With Child Or Slave Labor, Lawmaker Says

State Rep. John Bear is proposing legislation that would block Wyoming state government from buying products made with slave or child labor.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 05, 2024

Wyoming's unique winters with its cold, wind and blowing snow, have led to the development of scientific snow mitigation measures like snow fences.

Wyoming Has 400 Miles Of Snow Fences To Help Keep Roads Open In Winter

Although the "lake effect" produces bad conditions in Michigan and New York, scientists say Wyoming is the epicenter of blowing snow. Other areas of the country get snow and get wind but Wyoming gets both like none other.

Renée JeanFebruary 04, 2024

Donald Trump was the overwhelming favorite for president in Wyoming in 2016 and 2020, and he maintains that support going into the 2024 election season.

Some Cheney 'Never Trumpers' Now Support Trump; Others Won't Budge

There’s still hope among some Wyoming “never Trump” supporters of former congresswoman’s Liz Cheney that former President Trump won’t get the Republican nomination for president, but others have already switched to his side.

Leo WolfsonFebruary 03, 2024