Government & Politics
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Wyoming History: Nellie Tayloe Ross Sworn In As First Woman Gov. 100 Years Ago
It’s been 100 since a series of tragedies and unexpected twists changed history for one Wyoming woman, the Cowboy State and politics in the United States. Nellie Tayloe Ross was sworn in Jan. 5, 1925, as Wyoming’s — and America’s — first woman governor.
Jackie DorothyJanuary 04, 2025
Wyoming Man Took Jimmy Carter Fishing After He Lost Election To Reagan
A Wyoming man remembers the time in 1981 when he guided Jimmy Carter on a fishing vacation to the U.S. Virgin Islands. The former president had just lost to Reagan, so Steve Winters and his wife took him fishing and fed the Carters homemade tamales.
David MadisonJanuary 03, 2025
Wyoming Voters Will Decide On Slashing Property Taxes By 50%
A petition for a ballot initiative to slash Wyoming property taxes by 50% was certified Friday by the secretary of state’s office. That means Wyoming voters will decide the issue in 2026.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2025
Lummis Blasts Biden For Rewarding Cheney’s “Vendetta Against Donald Trump”
Wyoming Republican Cynthia Lummis blasted President Joe Biden on Friday for giving Liz Cheney the Presidential Citizens Medal. She said the move was a reward for Cheney pursuing “her vendetta against Donald Trump.”
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2025
Bringing A Gun To School Could Mean More Than A Year Expulsion Under Proposal
Veteran Wyoming legislator Steve Harshman says expelling students who bring guns to school for a year often isn’t enough. A bill he’s proposing for the upcoming session would allow school boards to expel gun violators for longer than a year.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 03, 2025
Wyoming AARP Says Photo IDs To Vote Would Alienate Many Senior Voters
Wyoming AARP and voting rights groups are concerned about a proposal Secretary of State Chuck Gray is pushing to require photo identification to vote. They say that could alienate many seniors who no longer drive or have photo IDs.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 02, 2025
Barrasso Slams Biden's Giving Liz Cheney Second Highest Civilian Honor
Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso slammed President Joe Biden’s awarding Liz Cheney the Presidential Citizens Medal on Thursday, the second highest civilian honor. Barrasso said Cheney doesn’t deserve an award for her “partisanship and divisiveness.”
Leo WolfsonJanuary 02, 2025
Teton County Legislator Wants River Otters Off Wyoming’s Protected List
A state legislator from Teton County wants to take river otters off Wyoming’s protected species list, where it’s been for about 70 years. While he says otters have bounced back from being extinct outside Yellowstone, biologists aren’t sold on delisting.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 01, 2025
Carbon County Ranchers Claim Sinclair Is Taking Their Water To Run Refinery
A group of Carbon County ranchers are appealing the state’s decision to allow a water exchange for the Sinclair refinery. They claim the refinery is taking their water from the North Platte River and ignoring more than 100 years of Wyoming water law.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 01, 2025
Hageman Picked As Chairwoman For House Anti-Woke Caucus
Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman was named chairwoman of the House Anti-Woke Caucus on Monday. The caucus is dedicated to fighting the growing influence of "woke" ideologies in government, business and society.
Leo WolfsonDecember 31, 2024
Cheyenne Woman Recalls Grilling Jimmy Carter With Questions When She Was 12
Cheyenne resident Susan Allen will likely never forget the moment when then-President Jimmy Carter picked up the phone and talked to her. It was 1977, she was 12 and asked the president what he does to unwind and his thoughts on solar power.
Leo WolfsonDecember 31, 2024
$100M Kelly Parcel Sale One Of The Largest Of Its Kind In American History
The sale of the Kelly Parcel in Teton County to Grand Teton National Park for $100 million became official Monday. It’s one of the largest federal government purchased from the Land and Water Conservation Fund in its nearly 60 year history.
Leo WolfsonDecember 30, 2024
Wyoming Leaders Remember Former President Jimmy Carter
Although not regarded as an effective president, Wyoming leaders who interacted with Jimmy Carter said he had an affable spirit and a kind heart. "He was a marvelous human being," former U.S. Sen. Al Simpson told Cowboy State Daily.
Leo WolfsonDecember 29, 2024
After Decades Of Debate, $100 Million Sale Of Kelly Parcel Is Final
The controversial Kelly Parcel land transfer in Teton County is finally complete after decades of negotiations and debate between Wyoming officials and the federal government. Gov. Mark Gordon announced Friday that he’s officially certified the sale.
Leo WolfsonDecember 28, 2024
Gordon Investigating Weston County Clerk Over Election Misconduct Claims
Gov. Mark Gordon says he’s investigating allegations of election misconduct against the Weston County clerk. The complaint stems from the general election in which the clerk mistakenly mixed ballots with errors in with correct ballots.
Clair McFarlandDecember 28, 2024
Wyoming Freedom Caucus Unveils 'War On Woke' Plan For Legislative Session
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus has declared a “war on woke” for the upcoming legislative session, which begins next month. It features five proposed bills aimed at election integrity, ESG policies and reducing property taxes.
Clair McFarlandDecember 27, 2024
Idaho Tops 2 Million Population For First Time, Wyoming Still Below 600,000
Idaho has topped 2 million people for the first time, showing double-digit population growth. That outpaces Wyoming, which remains the least populated state with fewer than 600,000 people.
David MadisonDecember 26, 2024
Extension Keeps Rural Wyoming Connected For Remote Health Care
Tucked into the government spending bill that averted a shutdown this past weekend is something important for rural Wyomingites. It’s an extension of remote health care.
Leo WolfsonDecember 25, 2024
It Didn't Help U.S. Sen. Craig Thomas' Fear Of Flying When A Door Flew Off Mid-Flight
Late U.S. Sen. Craig Thomas didn’t like heights and really didn't like flying -- especially after after experiencing a door flying off mid-flight. But that didn't stop him from flying back to Wyoming almost every week while serving in Washington.
Leo WolfsonDecember 25, 2024
Casper Legislator Wants Special Elections, Not Appointments, To Fill Vacancies
Casper Republican Steve Harshman wants to change how Wyoming fills its top elected seats when there are vacancies. He says there should be special elections, not appointments from political parties.
Leo WolfsonDecember 23, 2024
Wyoming’s State Planes Get Some Criticism; Others Say They Pay For Themselves
Wyoming’s two current state planes were purchased during former Gov. Jim Geringer’s administration. He recalled the time when the door flew off mid-flight while he and U.S. Sen. Craig Thomas were onboard. “He about lost it,” Geringer laughed. “I don’t blame him.”
Leo WolfsonDecember 23, 2024
Wyoming Delegation Votes To Avoid Shutdown, Praises Trump And Musk’s Leadership
Wyoming’s congressional delegation voted to pass a temporary spending measure Friday night that will keep the federal government from shutting down. Cynthia Lummis praised Donald Trump and Elon Musk for exhibiting leadership while Biden didn’t.
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2024
Trump, Congress May Get Rid Of Those Annoying Twice-A-Year Clock Changes
People who hate daylight saving time and changing their clocks twice a year may finally have something to look forward to. President-elect Donald Trump says he wants to get rid of it, and so do congressional Republicans.
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2024
Bill Would Require Tighter Regulation Of Wyoming Abortion Clinics And Doctors
State Rep. Martha Lawley is bringing back a bill Gov. Mark Gordon vetoed this past session to require tighter regulation of Wyoming abortion clinics and doctors. Opponents call it an attempt to end abortions in the state.
Leo WolfsonDecember 21, 2024
Replacing Worn-Out 115-Year-Old LaPrele Dam Could Cost $190M, Start In 2026
Wyoming state engineers say there’s no saving the worn-out 115-year-old LaPrele Dam near Douglas, and it could cost $190 million to replace. Work on a new dam could start in 2026.
Mark HeinzDecember 20, 2024
BLM Finalizes Controversial Rock Springs Plan, Now Only Congress Can Stop It
The BLM on Friday finalized its controversial Rock Springs Resource Management Plan for more than 3 million acres in Southwest Wyoming. Now only Congress can reverse it.
Mark HeinzDecember 20, 2024
Musk-Trump Spending Overhaul Has Congress Scrambling To Avoid Shutdown
Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman supports President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s overhaul of a 1,500-page spending package. Their 116-page version failed Thursday night with a Friday shutdown deadline looming.
Leo WolfsonDecember 20, 2024
Close To Falling Apart, There’s No Saving LaPrele Dam, Says State Engineer
Wyoming's state engineer said Thursday that there’s no saving the 115-year-old LaPrele Dam near Douglas, which is close to falling apart. But one area rancher and legislator wants the planned demolition postponed.
Mark HeinzDecember 20, 2024
Chuck Gray Wants Legislators To Ban Ballot Drop Boxes In Wyoming
Secretary of State Chuck Gray said during a press conference Thursday that he plans to push legislation banning ballot drop boxes in Wyoming. He also wants Wyoming legislators to pass a number of other election security bills.
Leo WolfsonDecember 19, 2024
Legislator To Resurrect Landmark Bill To Eliminate Wyoming Property Taxes
State Rep. Steve Harshman is bringing back a landmark property tax bill for the upcoming session that would eliminate property taxes for most Wyoming homeowners. To make up for that lost revenue, the state sales tax rate would be increased.
Leo WolfsonDecember 19, 2024
Freshman Legislator To Reintroduce Bill To Define Gender At Birth In Wyoming
Casper Republican Jayme Lien promises to reintroduce one of the most high-profile bills of the last session in the What is a Woman Act. It would define gender as a person’s biological sex at birth for use of bathrooms and other public facilities.
Leo WolfsonDecember 19, 2024
Trump Says Liz Cheney ‘Could Be In A Lot Of Trouble’ Over New Jan. 6 Report
President-elect Donald Trump said Wednesday that former Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney “could be in a lot of trouble.” A House subcommittee report released Tuesday calls for an investigation into Cheney for alleged witness tampering.
Leo WolfsonDecember 18, 2024
Residents Outraged As Laramie Council Gives City Manager $43,000 Raise
Despite getting an earful from local residents, Laramie City Council gave its longtime city manager a $43,000 raise Tuesday. It’s a nearly 25% hike from her current salary, and brings the position in line with other larger Wyoming city managers.
Leo WolfsonDecember 18, 2024
Wyoming Legislator Mad State Pharmacy Board Still Won’t Allow Public Comment
The Wyoming State Pharmacy Board continued Tuesday not allowing public comment at its meetings. That includes Casper state Rep. Jeanette Ward, who is calling out the group for not listening to public input on the closure of a Cheyenne pharmacy.
Leo WolfsonDecember 18, 2024
House Committee Accuses Liz Cheney Of “Criminal Witness Tampering”
A U.S. House committee report released Tuesday accuses Liz Cheney of “criminal witness tampering” during the Jan. 6 Select Committee hearings. One Wyoming political opponent calls the report a sign of how “dishonest the Cheneys really are.”
Leo WolfsonDecember 17, 2024
Wyoming Democratic Party Chair Joe Barbuto Is Running For DNC Vice Chair
Wyoming Democratic Party Chair Joe Barbuto is running to be vice chair of the Democratic National Committee. If elected, he would become the first Wyoming resident since former Gov. Nellie Tayloe Ross in 1928 to hold a DNC leadership position.
Leo WolfsonDecember 17, 2024
Bill Would Allow Concealed Carry In Wyoming Schools With “Enhanced” Permit
The sponsor of a bill that would allow concealed carry of firearms in Wyoming schools with an “enhanced” permit says it’s a compromise to repealing gun-free zones. There’s a strong chance those zones could be banned in the upcoming legislative session.
Leo WolfsonDecember 16, 2024
Drone Patterns Over New Jersey Similar To Those In Wyoming’s Niobrara County
Drone sightings in Wyoming’s Niobrara County bear eerie similarities to machines flying over New Jersey and other areas of the country, that are now overwhelming the nation with concern.
Clair McFarlandDecember 14, 2024
Wyomingites At U.S. Capitol On Jan. 6 Say ‘No Surprise’ FBI Informants Were Part Of It
Two Wyoming residents who were at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021 say there’s “no surprise” to learn the FBI had at least 26 informants there that day. A new report released Thursday also says many of those informants committed illegal acts.
Leo WolfsonDecember 14, 2024
A Strip Club Outside Yellowstone? Not Yet, But New Rules Could Open The Door
There are no plans to put a strip club or other adult business outside Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. But new Park County development standards could open the door.
Leo WolfsonDecember 13, 2024
Parents Sue Over State Plan To Shutter Eight Cheyenne Elementary Schools
A plan to shutter eight Cheyenne elementary schools will “irreparably harm students” and families, claims a lawsuit filed by two local parents. They also say the closures will drive down property values.
Clair McFarlandDecember 12, 2024
Postmaster General Gives Himself An “A” For Gutting Wyoming Mail Delivery
Postmaster General Louis DeJoy is giving himself an “A” for his controversial plan that will gut Wyoming’s large mail processing centers and lengthen delivery times. While he’s proud of the plan, Harriet Hageman gives it and DeJoy an “F.”
Renée JeanDecember 12, 2024
Wyoming Sues BLM Over “Narrow-Minded” Plan To End Coal In Powder River Basin
Gov. Mark Gordon has made good on a threat to sue the BLM over what he calls its “narrow-minded” plan to end coal in the Powder River Basin by 2041. Filed Wednesday, the lawsuit claims the plan is illegal and ignores the state’s concerns.
Leo WolfsonDecember 12, 2024
Freedom Caucus Upset Over Using State Jet To Fly Around Major UW Donors
The Wyoming Freedom Caucus is upset the University of Wyoming flew some major donors in a state-owned jet last month. The trip to watch the UW men’s basketball team play Texas Tech was a perk for donors who give more than $10,000 to the Cowboy Joe Club.
Leo WolfsonDecember 12, 2024
Legalizing Online Gambling In Wyoming Could Rake In Nearly $900M, Study Says
The Wyoming Legislature will consider a bill to legalize online gambling, like slots, poker, blackjack and other games. A study for the Wyoming Gaming Commission says iGaming could rake in nearly $900 million over five years.
Sydnee ChapmanDecember 12, 2024
Proposal Would Give Wyoming Cities And Towns More Control Of Gaming Machines
The Joint Appropriations Committee advanced a bill Tuesday that would allow cities in Wyoming to decide if they want historical horse racing in their communities. Another bill would allow operators to broadcast local horse racing nationwide.
Leo WolfsonDecember 12, 2024
UW Wants $1.5M From State For Its Share Of $2.7B NCAA Settlement To Pay Athletes
The University of Wyoming asked legislators Tuesday for $1.5 million more to help run the athletics department. The school is facing a shortfall after paying out its share of a massive $2.7 billion NCAA settlement with student-athletes.
Leo WolfsonDecember 11, 2024
Legislators Say They’re Not Going To Give Gordon A Blank Check For Wildfires
The Joint Appropriations Committee grilled members of Gov. Mark Gordon’s staff Monday about how much it will cost to fix the damage caused by Wyoming’s historic wildfire season. They also said they’re not willing to give Gordon a blank check.
Leo WolfsonDecember 10, 2024
Cheyenne Council Passes Controversial Ban On Huge RVs Parking On City Streets
Despite vocal — and at times emotional — opposition, Cheyenne City Council on Monday passed a ban on parking huge RVs and other “oversized” vehicles on city streets. The only exceptions are during the summer months or with a permit.
Leo WolfsonDecember 10, 2024
Democrats, Freedom Caucus, Unhappy With Legislative Committee Assignments
Democrats and the Wyoming Freedom Caucus are both unhappy with some of the committee assignments for the upcoming session. The Freedom Caucus condemns Senate appointments in particular, saying committees will be controlled “by Liz Cheney Republicans.”
Leo WolfsonDecember 10, 2024
Trump Says He Won’t Go After Cheney For J6 Committee, But She Should “Go To Jail”
President-elect Donald Trump said on “Meet The Press” on Sunday that he will not direct his top law enforcement officials to go after Liz Cheney and members of the J6 Committee, but believes they “should go to jail.”
Leo WolfsonDecember 09, 2024
Wyoming Dems Upset With Legislative Committee Assignments; Neiman Says He Tried To Be Fair
Although Democrats say they are outraged after Saturday’s announcement of committee assignments for the upcoming 2025 legislative session, incoming House Speaker Chip Neiman said he tried to be as fair as possible.
Leo WolfsonDecember 08, 2024
Students, Parent Argue Against Banning Cellphones In Wyoming Schools
Wyoming teens and a parent say there are good reasons for students to have cellphones at school. They argue banning them won’t be a slam dunk answer to poor test scores and lack of socialization, and could increase safety risks.
Leo WolfsonDecember 07, 2024
Lummis Joins Elon’s DOGE Push In “Herculean Effort” To Cut Government Pork
Wyoming U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis has joined the DOGE Caucus in Congress to help Elon Musk and the incoming Trump administration’s efforts to cut government pork. Lummis said Friday it will be “a Herculean effort” to slash spending by $2 trillion.
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2024
Insiders Speculate Biden Will Issue Pardon For Liz Cheney
Although the New York Times and Politico are reporting that President Biden may issue a preemptive pardon for Liz Cheney, Sen. Cynthia Lummis, an attorney, believes it’s an “absolutely absurd” proposal which would turn “justice on its head.”
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2024
Legislator Wants To Ban Cellphones In Wyoming Classrooms
Kids using cellphones during class at school has gotten out of hand, says state Sen. Wendy Schuler. She's proposing legislation that would ban cellphones in class across Wyoming.
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2024
Wyoming Hasn’t Had A Democrat In Congress Since Teno Roncalio, 46 Years Ago
It’s been 46 years since Wyoming was represented by a Democrat in Congress. That was Teno Roncalio, who served five terms in the U.S. House, ending in 1978.
Leo WolfsonDecember 06, 2024
Study: Wyoming Third Worst State For Personal Freedoms
A new study from the Libertarian-leaning Cato Institute finds that Wyoming is the third worst state in the nation for personal freedoms. Bringing the state down is education, drug laws and incarceration rate.
Leo WolfsonDecember 05, 2024
Commander Of Navy Reserve Center In Cheyenne Fired For “Loss Of Confidence”
Navy Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Bourque was relieved of his duties this week as the commanding officer of the Navy Reserve Center in Cheyenne “due to a loss of confidence in his ability to command.”
Justin GeorgeDecember 05, 2024
BLM Expects Controversial Rock Springs Plan To Be Final Before Biden Leaves
Gov. Mark Gordon will make a last effort to fight the finalizing of the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs Resources Management Plan. But a Wyoming BLM official expects the plan to be made final before President Joe Biden leaves office.
Leo WolfsonDecember 05, 2024
Legislators Table Bill To Protect Utility Companies From Wildfire Lawsuits
The Joint Minerals Committee expressed interest in a bill that would have given public utilities liability protection from wildfire lawsuits. Legislators ultimately killed the plan Monday, saying it’s not ready.
Leo WolfsonDecember 04, 2024
Hated By Many Republicans, Democrats Also Blast Liz Cheney For Supporting Harris
Already hated by many Republicans, it seems independents and Democrats also weren’t big fans of Liz Cheney’s support for Kamala Harris against Donald Trump. A new poll shows Cheney many have actually hurt her chances.
Leo WolfsonDecember 04, 2024
How Hunter Biden Could Still Take The Fifth Even With Full Pardon From Dad
In some cases, Hunter Biden could still refuse to answer questions if called before Congress to testify. That’s because his wide-sweeping pardon is for federal offenses. He could still take the Fifth Amendment related to state-level crimes.
Clair McFarlandDecember 03, 2024
Biden Pardoned His Son; Will Trump Do The Same For Jan. 6 Participants?
Wyomingites have mixed opinions about whether President-elect Donald Trump will, or should, pardon participants in the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. Some say Biden’s sweeping pardon of his son makes Jan. 6 pardons easier for Trump.
Leo WolfsonDecember 03, 2024
Bird, Not Controversial New LDS Temple, To Blame For Cody Power Outages
A flurry of angry social media posts say construction of a controversial new LDS temple caused a series of power outages in Cody on Sunday and Monday. But they’re wrong. The city says a bird fried by a power line is to blame.
Leo WolfsonDecember 02, 2024
Hageman Slams Biden For Pardoning His Son After Repeated Promises He Wouldn’t
Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman slammed President Joe Biden for unconditionally pardoning his son Hunter Biden on federal gun and tax evasion charges Sunday. Biden had repeatedly insisted he wouldn't.
Leo WolfsonDecember 02, 2024
Colorado State Beats Team With Trans Player To Win MWC Volleyball Championship
After months of controversy surrounding a transgender player on its team, San Jose State University’s women’s volleyball squad lost to Colorado State University in the Mountain West Conference championship Saturday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 02, 2024
Ego And Bias: Pollster Explains How National Polls Got The Election Wrong — Again
Most national polls were wrong — again — in this year’s presidential election. A national political pollster told Cowboy State Daily that ego and bias are why many just can’t seem to get it right.
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2024
How Lander Nearly Became Wyoming’s Capital City
Wyoming voters were asked to decide in 1904 if Cheyenne should remain the state capital city, or if it should move to another city. Although Cheyenne won that vote, Lander came close.
Leo WolfsonNovember 29, 2024
Wyoming Legislators Vow To Revive Bill That Bans Sanctuary Cities
Wyoming legislators are looking to revive a bill that would ban sanctuary cities and counties in the state. The effort is gaining momentum after ICE officials said Teton County is letting jailed illegal immigrants go free.
Clair McFarlandNovember 28, 2024
Hageman Says “Terrorist-Supporting” Nonprofits Shouldn’t Get Tax Breaks
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman voted to support a bill that could strip “terrorist-supporting” American nonprofits of their tax-exempt status. The U.S. Treasury secretary would decide which groups fit that mold.
Leo WolfsonNovember 27, 2024
Cheyenne City Council Blasted Over Banning "Nuisance" RVs Parking On City Streets
A proposal to not allow "nuisance" RVs and other similar vehicles on city streets was blasted by some Cheyenne residents Monday. They say it’s an example of government overreach, while the city says it’s about safety.
Leo WolfsonNovember 26, 2024
Wyoming Legislator Wants To Extend Trans Sports Ban To UW, Community Colleges
Martha Lawley, a Republican state House member from Worland, says she wants to extend Wyoming’s transgender sports ban to UW and community colleges. She also wants to clarify that biological sex at birth determines bathroom and locker room use.
Leo WolfsonNovember 26, 2024
Montana Sen. Pushes To Get Redskins Logo Back, Native American Group Says He Didn't Push Hard Enough
Montana Sen. Steve Daines has led the way in trying to get the original Redskins logo back for the now Washington Commanders but a Native American group -- which wants the name and the logo back -- says he hasn't pushed hard enough.
David MadisonNovember 26, 2024
Delegation Wants To Name Casper Trails Center For Former House Rep. Barbara Cubin
Wyoming’s congressional delegation want to honor the political legacy of Barbara Cubin, the state’s second-longest serving U.S. House rep. They’ve introduced a bill to name the Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper for her.
Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2024
Barrasso: Let's Crank Up The Fossil Fuels And Boot The Illegal Immigrants
John Barrasso told Fox News on Sunday he's 100% behind President-elect Trump’s promise for mass deportations of illegal immigrants. He also said a new Trump administration could bolster Wyoming’s energy industries.
Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2024
Newcomers to Wyoming, Montana More Likely To Be Republican Transplants
Republicans looking to get away from more liberal states are choosing Wyoming, Montana and other Western states, and they've turned some already conservative states even a deeper shade of red. The migration may have helped Republicans dominate Election Day.
David MadisonNovember 24, 2024
Bo Biteman Named Wyoming Senate President, Chip Neiman Is New House Speaker
The Wyoming Senate and House on Saturday elected their leaders for the upcoming 2025 legislative session. Sen. Bo Biteman will be the new Senate president, while Rep. Chip Neiman will be House speaker.
Leo WolfsonNovember 23, 2024
That Time Wyoming Tried Banning Abortion On The Ballot And Failed
A unique coalition of Christians, Democrats and lawyers tried passing an abortion ban on the ballot in 1994. The effort failed, but not without shaking up the state’s political sphere.
Clair McFarlandNovember 23, 2024
University Of Wyoming Trustees Reject Campus Concealed Carry On Split Vote
The University of Wyoming trustees voted Friday against allowing the concealed carry of handguns on campus. But the Wyoming Legislature could still override that decision.
Mark HeinzNovember 22, 2024
Bondurant Gravel Mine Expansion Has Neighbors In Uproar
A proposed gravel pit expansion in Bondurant, Wyoming, has many neighbors in an uproar. They’re concerned about the noise it could create and impacts to wildlife and nearby streams.
Leo WolfsonNovember 22, 2024
Even If UW Won’t Allow Concealed Carry, Legislature Probably Will, Trustee Says
Even if the University of Wyoming doesn’t allow concealed carry of firearms on campus, the Legislature is probably going to approve it anyway, a UW trustee said Thursday.
Mark HeinzNovember 21, 2024
Barrasso Says RFK Will Bring A Much-Needed Shakeup To FDA
John Barrasso, Wyoming's senior U.S. senator and a physician, said he believes Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will bring a much-needed shakeup to the federal Food and Drug Administration, if his nomination is approved.
Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2024
Sheriff Refuses State Of Wyoming Request To Ticket Ranchers For Wayward Cattle
The state of Wyoming wants the Crook County Sheriff to ticket ranchers for trespassing when their cows wander onto unfenced state-owned leased grazing lands. But the sheriff has refused, saying “that’s not a solution to the problem, nor is it right.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 21, 2024
Wyoming Legislators To Bring Back Property Tax Bill Governor Vetoed
The Wyoming legislators advanced a property tax bill this week that Gov. Mark Gordon already vetoed earlier this year. If passed, the law would cut property taxes by 25% for single-family homes valued at $2 million or less.
Leo WolfsonNovember 20, 2024
Hageman Supports New Transgender Bathroom Rule In US House
Wyoming congresswoman Harriet Hageman said Wednesday she supports a new rule for the U.S. House designating women's bathrooms and changing rooms for females, and men's bathrooms and changing rooms for males.
Clair McFarlandNovember 20, 2024
Pro-Life Legislators Say Fight Not Over As Wyoming Abortion Pill Ban Struck Down
After Wyoming’s first-in-the-nation ban of abortion pills, pro-life legislators say their fight isn’t over. They may put it to voters to decide if abortion is “health care.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 20, 2024
Legislature Considering Non-Citizen Labels On State-Issued IDs
Wyoming IDs may get a complete redesign in the near future that would include a special designation identifying people who aren’t U.S. citizens on the state-issued cards.
Leo WolfsonNovember 19, 2024
Wyo. Mining Group Says Trump’s Energy Secretary Could Mean “180-Degree” Turn For Coal
The head of the Wyoming Mining Association says Trump’s nominee for energy secretary could roll back Biden regulations and reinvigorate the coal industry. He hopes to see “a 180-degree turn” for federal fossil fuels policy.
Leo WolfsonNovember 19, 2024
Abortion To Remain Legal In Wyoming As Judge Blocks Abortion Bans
Teton County District Court Judge Melissa Owens blocked Wyoming's two abortion bans Monday, saying abortion is health care and the Wyoming Constitution protects a woman's right to the procedure.
Clair McFarlandNovember 19, 2024
Sheridan County Elections Supervisor Stunned By Surprise Post-Election Firing
After helping oversee what he calls a “very successful” general election, Sheridan County’s election supervisor was suddenly fired last week. “I never saw it coming,” James Temple said.
Leo WolfsonNovember 18, 2024
Get Over Your “Squishy Feelings,” UW Alum Tells Concealed Carry Panel At UW
At a panel discussion Monday, most attendees seemed to be against allowing concealed carry of firearms at the University of Wyoming. But one supporter told attendees to get over their “squishy feelings” and follow the law.
Mark HeinzNovember 18, 2024
Wyoming Delegation Urges Mountain West Conf. To Ban Males From Women’s Sports
Wyoming’s congressional delegation and 10 more members of Congress sent a letter Monday to the Mountain West Conference’s commissioner, urging her to keep males out of women’s sports.
Clair McFarlandNovember 18, 2024
Wyoming Republicans Censure Laramie County Clerk Again, Call For Resignation
The Wyoming Republican Party censured Laramie County Clerk Debra Lee for a second time at its meeting Saturday and asked for her resignation. If she doesn’t resign, the party will request Gov. Mark Gordon remove her.
Leo WolfsonNovember 18, 2024
WYDOT Working 24/7 To Rebuild Mountain Under Teton Pass
The new Teton Pass will look just like the old one before it collapsed this past summer. WYDOT is working 24/7 to rebuild the mountain underneath Highway 22, this time with steel reinforcements set in bedrock and several drain systems.
Andrew RossiNovember 18, 2024
Republican Brent Bien First To Announce Campaign For Wyoming Governor In 2026
Cody Republican Brent Bien told Cowboy State Daily on Saturday at the Wyoming Republican Party Central Committee meeting in Big Piney that he’s running for governor in 2026. He also ran for governor in 2022 but lost to Mark Gordon in the primary.
Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2024
Trump And Republican Congress Could Throw Out Controversial Rock Springs Plan
With Trump returning to the White House and Republicans taking over the Senate and House, the BLM’s controversial Rock Springs Resource Management Plan could get derailed. It could get killed outright.
Leo WolfsonNovember 16, 2024
Arizona AG Ends Investigation Into Trump's "War Hawk" Comments About Liz Cheney
The Arizona attorney general has closed an investigation into Donald Trump’s controversial comments about Liz Cheney being a "war hawk." Her investigation showed there was “no reasonable likelihood that we could obtain a conviction for Trump’s statements.”
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2024
Barrasso And Lummis Say Matt Gaetz Will Be Treated Fairly
Wyoming Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis both said U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz will be treated fairly while he is being considered for the position of Attorney General. Neither, however, endorsed his selection outright.
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2024
Gordon Unveils $692 Million Supplemental Budget — One-Third For Wildfires
Gov. Mark Gordon unveiled his $692 million proposed supplemental budget Thursday, a plan he said promotes fiscal conservatism and sets Wyoming up for a strong future. Nearly one-third of that is earmarked for fighting wildfires.
Leo WolfsonNovember 15, 2024
Legislative Leaders Debate Tax Relief, Visions For Wyoming’s Future
It was a meeting of old vs. new Thursday as incoming and outgoing Wyoming legislative leaders were on stage together. Senate President Ogden Driskill and Reps. John Bear and Trey Sherwood debated tax relief and their visions for Wyoming’s future.
Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2024
Failing LaPrele Dam Near Douglas Leaves Farmers With No Good Options
There doesn't seem to be any good options for people living below the 115-year-old LaPrele Dam near Douglas which is failing. It's scheduled to be breached by April 1, 2025.
Mark HeinzNovember 14, 2024
Chuck Gray Says Animosity Toward Mark Gordon Not Personal
Secretary of State Chuck Gray on Thursday said his longstanding feud with Gov. Mark Gordon is nothing personal. He says it dates back to the governor’s vetoing one of his bills five years ago and a series of actions since then that he disagrees with.
Leo WolfsonNovember 14, 2024
Jon Tester Lost Senate Race And They’re Still Running Negative Ads Against Him
Although incumbent Montana Sen. Jon Tester lost his race for U.S. Senate, that hasn’t stopped a barrage of attack ads running against him. No one seems to know why they’re continuing, but they are.
David MadisonNovember 14, 2024
Powell School District Vows To Push Legislature For Separate Bathrooms Law
The board of the Park County School District 1 passed a resolution Tuesday, vowing to lobby the Wyoming Legislature for a law separating boys’ and girls’ school bathrooms.
Clair McFarlandNovember 13, 2024
It’s Official — Barrasso Elected To No. 2 Leadership Role In U.S. Senate
Wyoming Sen. John Barrasso was elected Senate whip on Wednesday, the No. 2 leadership position in the U.S. Senate.
Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2024
Canvassing Board Certifies Wyoming Election Despite Weston County Miscount
A miscount in Weston County during last week’s general election had the Wyoming Canvassing Board considering Wednesday to not certify the election. The results were certified despite the controversy.
Leo WolfsonNovember 13, 2024
Jackson's New Swinging Bridge Open 9 Months Early, Still Doesn’t Really Swing
A new replacement of the historic Swinging Bridge crossing the Snake River south of Jackson, Wyoming, is finished nine months early. And like the original, the bridge doesn’t actually swing.
Andrew RossiNovember 13, 2024