CSD Staff
Latest from CSD Staff
Letter To The Editor: Trump Won -- Now Let Him Govern
Dear editor: Republicans’ rush to judgment on President Trump’s cabinet nominees is astonishing, irresponsible and hypocritical, but typical of a party that can never rally behind its leadership and govern with collective focus and clear purpose.
CSD StaffNovember 16, 2024
Guest Column: Matt Gaetz Should Not Be Confirmed
Guest columnist Ray Hunkins writes, "The question is not whether Gaetz is guilty of any of the charges swirling around him. The question is whether the president and the American people deserve a better, untainted, qualified candidate for United States Attorney General."
CSD StaffNovember 15, 2024
Marta Mossburg: Let’s Hope Trump Scraps The Electronic Cattle Tag Rule
Marta Mossburg writes, “Knowing exactly how many cattle ranchers own means the ability to tax cows based on their greenhouse gas emissions as has been enacted in Denmark, to start in 2030. It could also mean forced slaughter, for example.”
CSD StaffNovember 14, 2024
Guest Column: Why Donald Trump Won And Why Kamala Harris Lost
Guest columnist Ray Hunkins writes: The Harris campaign was built on two platforms – dislike of Trump and abortion. Trump on the other hand, addressed the issues people cared about: the economy, inflation and the border.
CSD StaffNovember 11, 2024
Guest Column: How Much Federal Land Is Too Much?
Rep. Harriet Hageman writes, "Although there are certain individuals who seem hell-bent on selling this invaluable property (Kelly Parcel) to the National Park Service for $100 million dollars, it is obvious by every metric that its value is significantly higher. It is also apparent that the NPS itself believes this parcel is worth substantially more than $100 million."
CSD StaffNovember 06, 2024
Ray Hunkins: Why I’m Voting For Donald J. Trump
Guest columnist Ray Hunkins writes, "For the most part, we know what the Trump policies will be in a second term because we know what they were in his first term. I can’t think of any policy of the first Trump administration with which I disagreed."
CSD StaffOctober 31, 2024
Guest Column: Maybe The Kelly Walsh Band's Performance Was Just A Show
Guest columnist Susan Stubson writes, "Let’s lower the temperature here and consider for a moment that perhaps Kelly Walsh was not trying to communicate any message other than musical and visual excellence."
CSD StaffOctober 30, 2024
Letter To The Editor: Maybe It's Time To Retire Some Counties
Dear editor: Doug Gerard’s letter of reluctant agreement with Tom Lubnau’s editorial opinion on Weston County’s insistence on having a State Senator is both funny and interesting.
CSD StaffOctober 24, 2024
Guest Column: Clarity On Cheyenne Schools
As Chairman of the Select Committee for School Facilities, it is my responsibility to provide a factual perspective on the recent comments circulating on social media regarding the Legislative branch's involvement in the contentious issue concerning Cheyenne’s Most Cost Effective Remedy study.
CSD StaffOctober 09, 2024
Guest Column: Exposing the Hypocrisy of ‘Environmental Justice’
Sen. Cynthia Lummis writes, "One of the more extreme, left-wing ideas you may have heard of is “environmental justice.” Contrary to its name, this buzzword is yet another effort by the Biden-Harris administration to block traditional energy and infrastructure projects."
CSD StaffOctober 09, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming vs. the Fed -- Why Custodia Bank’s Fight Matters for All Americans
State Rep. Daniel Singh writes, "Custodia’s fight is about more than one bank; it’s a fight for fairness and autonomy. This issue gives lawmakers a chance to unite, cross partisan lines, and defend Wyoming’s interests in an increasingly centralized financial world."
CSD StaffOctober 08, 2024
Ray Hunkins: Thank You For A Civil And Informative Debate
Guest columnist Ray Hunkins writes, "It is possible to disagree, even disagree vehemently, and in the process be respectful and courteous. J.D. Vance and Tim Walz proved that at the vice presidential debate."
CSD StaffOctober 03, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming’s Jackpot: Unlocking Our Resources With Permitting Reform
Rep. Jared Olsen writes, "By a stroke of luck, within the borders of Wyoming lie vast resources our nation needs – coal, oil, natural gas, lithium, uranium, helium, bentonite, trona, rare earth minerals, strong winds, a piercing sun and more."
CSD StaffOctober 02, 2024
John Stossel: There Is No Bee Crisis
About 20 years ago, some honeybees died from “colony collapse disorder.” The media went into a buzz. But beekeepers rebuilt lost colonies and the disorder soon diminished. Now, there are 31% MORE bees in America. Since the media won’t report on that, I will:
CSD StaffSeptember 24, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Needs Protections To Ensure Only U.S. Citizens Can Vote
Secretary of State Chuck Gray writes, "We must call Gov. Gordon’s veto for what it is. Gordon’s veto is enabling Biden, Harris and the most radical leftists in America who are trying to help illegal immigrants vote in our elections."
CSD StaffSeptember 13, 2024
Guest Column: Another Federal Agency’s Overreach Requires Our Attention
Wyoming Business Alliance President Renny McKay writes, "One of the federal agencies that I’ve been watching lately that could really harm our state is a surprising one – the U.S. International Trade Commission."
CSD StaffSeptember 12, 2024
Guest Column: Proof Of Residency To Vote In Wyoming Is Only Common Sense
Rep. Tomi Strock writes, "Unfortunately, Gov. Gordon vetoed the proposed proof of residency rule [last session]. When the Legislature returns [next year], expect to see bills requiring that voters prove their residency and citizenship when registering to vote."
CSD StaffSeptember 12, 2024
Guest Column: Why Wyoming Is Losing Healthcare Workers
Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "Today my daughter decided to leave the nursing program and instead study Health Science, in the hopes that the WY legislature will do its job and protect medical freedom in the next two years, after which time she can pursue a nursing degree at a 4-year college."
CSD StaffSeptember 06, 2024
Guest Column: A Loaf of Bread And A Dream
Guest columnist Cassie Craven writes, "The primary elections showed that Wyomites value big ideas more than big experience. Several newcomers, and unknowns, shook up races and evicted long-time establishment in the Wyoming Legislature."
CSD StaffAugust 23, 2024
Guest Column: Speaking Anything Less Than The Truth Is Dehumanizing
Former state Rep. Scott Clem writes, "Surrendering your voice to buy the favor of your peers, like Democrats and Republicans often do in Congress, not only is a display of weakness, it's a betrayal to the people you supposedly represent."
CSD StaffAugust 08, 2024
Guest Column: Governor Gordon Gets It Wrong Again
Sen. Cheri Steinmetz writes, "Is anyone else getting tired of Mark Gordon trying to tell us what to do? He appears to be on his latest power trip since he is declaring what the “facts” are and who we should vote for in 2024."
CSD StaffAugust 05, 2024
Guest Column: Supreme Court’s ‘Chevron’ Ruling Won’t Stop Government Overreach
Guest columnist Marta Mossburg writes, "Paul Larkin, a legal scholar at the conservative Heritage Foundation in Washington, D.C., said he thinks members of Congress will continue to write vague laws because they have every incentive to do so."
CSD StaffAugust 02, 2024
Guest Column: America Must Get Facts On Trump Assassination Attempt So It Can't Happen Again
Rep. Harriet Hageman writes, "The American people deserve to know what went so wrong that a deranged shooter was able to fire on President Trump, whether the shooter was acting alone, and what is being done to ensure the safety and security of our political leaders."
CSD StaffAugust 02, 2024
Guest Column: Out-of-State Dark Money and Misconstrued Attacks -- Setting the Record Straight
Rep. Tom Walters writes, "I feel compelled to address recent attacks on my stance regarding women's sports. These attacks, fueled by out-of-state dark money, have grossly misconstrued my position on an issue of profound importance."
CSD StaffJuly 30, 2024
Guest Column: Politicians Should Put More Trust in the People of Wyoming
Wyoming State Sen. Brian Boner writes, "The drama of the ongoing conflict between the Freedom and Wyoming Caucuses fills headlines and, while certainly entertaining, continues to do damage to the Wyoming Legislature."
CSD StaffJuly 25, 2024
Guest Column: Strengthening National Security, Growing Wyoming’s Economy
Guest columnist Travis Deti writes, "Wyoming has the energy resources America and the world need. The Wyoming uranium industry has weathered some very difficult years. But thanks to the work of our Wyoming leadership in Washington, the tide is beginning to turn."
CSD StaffJuly 21, 2024
Guest Column: Freedom Is Not Free
State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz writes, "I grew up hearing stories about my Great Uncles John, Harold and Ed who fought against Hitler and the Nazis in World War II to defend us from the scourge of communism."
CSD StaffJuly 03, 2024
Guest Column: I've Seen A Key Part Of Wyoming's All-Of-The-Above Energy Strategy
State Rep. J.T. Larson writes, "Wyoming has the key ingredients to grow durable energy businesses that will pay family-sustaining wages for decades. Our state has invested in carbon capture and sequestration from the beginning."
CSD StaffJune 27, 2024
Guest Column: Innovation and Integrity -- The Future of Our City's Governance
Vic Miller writes, "Our campaign is not a "stunt" or a "circus," but a serious, forward-thinking approach to civic leadership. Vic Miller is the legal candidate for mayor, fully compliant with Wyoming law."
CSD StaffJune 23, 2024
Guest Column: When Dealing With Feds, Wyoming Should Recall The Serenity Prayer
Guest columnist Samuel Western writes, "Maybe Wyoming should start listening to markets rather than tilting at windmills. Let’s stop throwing money at studies and policies that prop up struggling industries."
CSD StaffJune 16, 2024
Guest Column: Why I Support Parental Rights In Education
Guest columnist Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "Building trust and a partnership between parents and schools is a good thing, and it requires protecting the rights of parents to direct the upbringing of their kids."
CSD StaffJune 14, 2024
Guest Column: Deemphasizing DEI At UW Was the Right Decision
Guest columnist Ray Hunkins writes, "The decision to eliminate the Office of DEI at the University of Wyoming is welcome news to many university supporters, myself included. The considerable money spent on DEI and its bureaucracy can now be spent on academic programs, UW’s core mission."
CSD StaffJune 11, 2024
Guest Column: Compare My Record To My Opponent's
Rep. Tomi Strock writes, "This race has been described as a 'rematch' of the 2022 race in which I defeated former Rep. Clausen. For the sake of the voters, I’m grateful for this rematch, as my record, like my opponent’s, is available for close inspection."
CSD StaffJune 10, 2024
Guest Column: Thank You, School Board, For Working With Parents
Guest columnist Nathan Winters writes, "Recently, an op-ed by Joan Barron claimed that there is broad disagreement with a proposed new book policy for school libraries in LCSD#1. Nothing could be further from the truth."
CSD StaffJune 07, 2024
Guest Column: Why The Trump Verdict Is Bogus
Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "After President Trump was convicted on 34 bogus felony counts last week, elitists in the press and in academia seemed confused by the reaction of us ordinary people to this miscarriage of justice."
CSD StaffJune 05, 2024
Guest Column: Cutting Red Tape to Grow Wyoming’s Trona Industry
Rep. Jon Conrad writes, "The potential of trona mining and development to create jobs and strengthen Wyoming’s economy, however, is being squandered as projects continue to get stuck in the regulatory quagmire that is our nation’s federal permitting process."
CSD StaffJune 03, 2024
Daily Smile: Friday, May 31, 2024
Ain't got no time for the slow feed dog bowl....
CSD StaffMay 31, 2024
Guest Column: Another Rocky Mountain Rate Hike – Here We Go Again!
Rep. Harriet Hageman writes, "Stop me if you’ve heard this one before, but Rocky Mountain Power wants to raise your electric bill by double digit … yet again. This is not the first rate increase that RMP has proposed, and it will not be the last."
CSD StaffMay 27, 2024
Saturday Morning Dance Party: Earth, Wind & Fire -- Let's Groove
Earth, Wind & Fire -- Let's Groove
CSD StaffMay 25, 2024
Guest Column: Wolf Issue Will Be Addressed In Legislature With Wyoming Values In Mind
Rep. John Winter writes, "I have received barrage of hateful and nasty phone calls and emails from all across this country. As a result, I thought I should try to clarify a few things and put this issue into perspective."
CSD StaffMay 20, 2024
Guest Column: What And How Matters Not The Who
Guest columnist Doug Gerard writes, "Tom Lubnau's recent screed against anonymity in politics is at odds with American history, and his focus on anonymous legislator-rating websites is misplaced."
CSD StaffMay 14, 2024
Guest Column: Defending Wyoming’s Access to our Public Lands
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso and Rep. Harriet Hageman write, "The BLM’s Rock Springs Resource Management Plan is essentially a land lockdown, turning thousands of acres of federal land in Wyoming from multiple-use into non-use."
CSD StaffMay 13, 2024
Your Wyoming Sunrise: Monday, May 6, 2024
Today's Wyoming sunrise was captured by Adam Ashmore in Hartville, Wyoming.
CSD StaffMay 06, 2024
Harriet Hageman: I'm Endorsing Sen. John Barrasso For Re-Election And Here's Why
In a guest column for Cowboy State Daily, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman writes, “I am happy to join President Trump in endorsing my friend and working partner in Congress, U.S. Sen. John Barrasso, for re-election in November."
CSD StaffMay 05, 2024
Guest Opinion: These Are The Dumbest Campus Protests Of All Time
Radio host Clay Travis says, "If Hamas actually had a state, most of the people protesting in support of them would have no human rights there. This may be the dumbest American campus protest of all time."
CSD StaffMay 02, 2024
Guest Column: The Campus Protests Are A Cluster**** And I Couldn't Be Happier
Guest columnist Tom Bentley writes, "These campus protests are a cluster**** decades in the making, and I couldn’t be happier. They're just the appetizer though. The main course will come at the Democrat convention. Load up on popcorn, that’s gonna be fun."
CSD StaffMay 02, 2024
Guest Column: The Good Ship Wyoming Deserves Better Captains
Guest columnist Rep. Ben Hornok writes, "Any spending strategy for Wyoming should not be based on how big a tantrum 'capable Republican' politicians can throw in the checkout lane of the supermarket when they are trying to get what they want."
CSD StaffApril 30, 2024
Jonathan Lange: IVF, Abortion And The Will Of The People
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "President Trump’s long-anticipated statement on abortion was released earlier this month. After a brief spin cycle, it has largely fallen from the headlines. Nevertheless, we should not let the month end without some comment."
CSD StaffApril 26, 2024
Guest Column: Innocent Beings Should Never Be Tortured Or Killed -- Period
Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "The abortion clinic in Casper brags that it performs surgical abortions up to 23 weeks gestation. At 15 weeks, unborn babies can feel pain. At 22 weeks, they can recognize the voice of their mother. An abortion committed at 23 weeks involves dismembering the baby..."
CSD StaffApril 11, 2024
Chuck Gray: Only Wyomingites Should Be Voting In Wyoming Elections
In a guest column, Secretary of State Chuck Gray writes, "We must protect ourselves from the insecurity of the invasion affecting all 50 states. I urge the governor to adopt these rules and help secure Wyoming’s elections."
CSD StaffApril 11, 2024
Guest Column: Balancing Development and Conservation: Worth the Hard Work
Guest columnist Steff Kessler writes, "We can take pride and guidance in looking at how Wyoming has addressed these challenges in the past. But we also need to recognize when some things aren’t working and it’s time to come up with new ways of doing things."
CSD StaffApril 09, 2024
Guest Column: Defending The Reputation Of Your Opponent Elevates Your Own
Guest columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "Whether politicians are calling their constituents deplorables and knuckleheads, or constituents are defaming the reputations of elected officials, both should be ashamed of themselves."
CSD StaffApril 06, 2024
Guest Column: Fact vs. Fiction -- 2024 Budget Session
Guest columnist Rep. Tomi Strock writes, "I am writing this in order to filter the facts from the fiction spouted by liberal lawmakers and repeated by their allies in the press – one of the most frequently parroted fiction out there has to do with committee bills being killed."
CSD StaffApril 05, 2024
Guest Column: Wheatland Has The Funding to Address Failing Water Tank
In a guest column, Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon writes, "Despite claims to the contrary, my line item veto of [the Wheatland water tower project] in the 2024 budget was not punitive, but rather a reflection of the adequate support the State has already provided..."
CSD StaffApril 04, 2024
Letter To The Editor: We All Benefit from Wyoming’s Diversified Energy Portfolio
Dear editor, "Our future depends on remaining competitive and keeping Wyoming open for business by not picking winners and losers regarding industries. All industries and innovation bring value to Wyoming, its communities and families."
CSD StaffApril 02, 2024
Letter To The Editor: Analyzing The So-Called 'Shoshoni Speed Trap'
Dear editor, "Instead of being known for milkshakes and malts, Shoshoni is now famous, or maybe infamous, for our 'speed trap.'"
CSD StaffApril 02, 2024
Guest Column: What a "Nay" Vote on the Special Session Means
Guest columnists Reps. Haroldson, Rodriguez-Williams and Knapp write, "A vote against the special session is a vote AGAINST property tax relief, AGAINST the Second Amendment, AGAINST protecting pre-born babies, FOR Biden’s 30x30 land grab, and FOR an all-powerful governor who operates in the absence of checks and balances."
CSD StaffApril 01, 2024
Letter To The Editor: Sheridan County Land Exchange Is A Bad Idea
Dear editor, "The Wyoming State Treasurer’s Office now has $28.5 billion in investments. So why are we trying to sell/trade the Columbus Peak parcel of state land?"
CSD StaffApril 01, 2024
Guest Column: Why We Voted Against The Special Session
In a guest column, leadership of the Wyoming House wrote, "We were open to a special session solely focused on revising SF 54. However, the obstructionists in the freedom caucus would not agree to that, calling for a minimum of 4-6 different bills, including the budget bill."
CSD StaffApril 01, 2024
Guest Column: We Need The Beef Checkoff For The Future
Mark Eisele writes, "Opponents of the Beef Checkoff have allied themselves with radical animal rights activists to push for the deceptively named OFF Act. I know some people don’t like the Checkoff, but being on the same side as known animal rights groups is making a deal with the devil."
CSD StaffMarch 31, 2024
Letter To The Editor: Gordon Is A True Cowboy
Dear editor: "Currently there is one real cowboy in the governor’s office doing his job. Like him or not, Gov. Gordon is looking out for Wyoming."
CSD StaffMarch 30, 2024
Guest Column: Three Reasons Wyoming Citizens Should Demand A Special Session
State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz writes, "The governor ran as a Republican but governs and vetoes like a Democrat. Actions speak louder than words. Mark Gordon offers a stunning example of this prevalent hypocrisy."
CSD StaffMarch 29, 2024
Megan Degenfelder: University of Wyoming Must Respond to Concerns Over DEI
Guest columnist Megan Degenfelder writes, "Our universities should not presume the righteousness of only one side, promote a sense of guilt and division among students, neglect important context in order to obscure the whole story, or legitimize fringe ideas."
CSD StaffMarch 28, 2024
Letter To The Editor: Gratitude And Reflection On Our Legislative Journey For Behavioral Health
Dear editor, "We owe a debt of gratitude to Governor Mark Gordon, whose unwavering vision for a Wyoming where behavioral health services are prioritized and strengthened has been a source of hope for us all."
CSD StaffMarch 28, 2024
Letter To The Editor: 'Fairness In Farming Act' Is Target Of Flat Out Lies
Dear editor: There are exciting initiatives in the works to stop the decline of beef cattle numbers and cattle ranching operations as well as independent cattle feeding and beef processing businesses.
CSD StaffMarch 27, 2024
Guest Column: Why We Think A Special Legislative Session Is A Bad Idea
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "Without special rules governing the special session, it’s likely to be a Pandora’s Box scenario devolving into a mini-session akin to what we witnessed in the 2021 special session, where 41 bills were filed, and only one passed."
CSD StaffMarch 27, 2024
Guest Column: Why We Will Not Call A Special Session
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "A special session would require 8 - 10 days and cost approximately $35,000 a day. Should we spend $350,000 of taxpayer money because we couldn’t get our job done within the calendar that we had agreed upon?"
CSD StaffMarch 25, 2024
Guest Column: Governor Gordon Unconstitutionally Plays Politics with People’s Lives
Guest columnist Rep. Jeremy Haroldson writes, "The governor issued a line-item veto to remove funding for an aging water tower in my home of Wheatland - a water tower that is in such poor shape, it could breach at any moment, destroying ten or more city blocks in its wake."
CSD StaffMarch 25, 2024
Guest Column: Choosing Substance Over Flash In Local Elections
Laramie County Commissioner Gunnar Malm writes, "As we approach election season, it's essential for voters and residents to take a step back from the noise of partisan rhetoric and carefully consider the qualifications of those running to serve ALL residents."
CSD StaffMarch 21, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Education Association Falsely Attacking My Voting Record
Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "When it is suggested to children that boys can become girls, that mental anguish can be solved by degrading and mutilating their bodies, that America is an evil empire, and that the world is sure to end because of your mom’s SUV, mental health problems are sure to proliferate."
CSD StaffMarch 20, 2024
Guest Column: “Education Savings Accounts” Invite The Government Into The Church
Guest columnist Rep. Jerry Obermueller writes, "Education savings accounts are not a “wall of separation” as proponents suggest, rather the mechanism to transfer money from the public treasury to the collection plate, the largest church fundraiser ever in Wyoming."
CSD StaffMarch 19, 2024
Guest Column: State Sees 32% Increase in Government; Leaves Taxpayers Behind
Members of the Freedom Caucus write, "The Uniparty and their allies in the media don’t want you to know how much was just spent in Cheyenne– and how much of it was discretionary spending."
CSD StaffMarch 18, 2024
Guest Column: Chloe Reminded Us It’s About Children, Not Gender Change
Guest columnist Jonathan Lange writes, "Chloe Cole did not come to Wyoming as an 'anti-transgender' anything. She came to prevent the child-abuse that forever changed her life from happening to Wyoming kids."
CSD StaffMarch 17, 2024
Guest Column: Winter Fishing In Wyoming
Guest columnist Abby Roich writes, "Few alarms are likely going off at 5 am on a Saturday but mine is buzzing. I’m thankful for an automatic brewer as it’s already filling the air with the aroma of coffee. 'I get to go fishing today,' I think to myself..."
CSD StaffMarch 15, 2024
Guest Column: Budget Session Ends
State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz writes, "The committee restored roughly $340 million to the governor’s energy slush fund, gave back the gender studies program and the requirement of a standard budget at the University of Wyoming, approved $2.5 million for an air show at the Casper airport and approved a third raise for state employees."
CSD StaffMarch 11, 2024
Guest Column: Legislature Passes Conservative Budget, Largest Property Tax Reform In History
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "Despite political differences and policy disagreements, the Legislature passed a conservative, balanced budget that addresses our state’s needs and invests in the future."
CSD StaffMarch 11, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Freedom Caucus Supports Senate Budget
Members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus write, "We are strongly opposed to the Uniparty's position in the House of growing government by 30% over the next two years– after all, will your income grow that much over the next two years?"
CSD StaffMarch 05, 2024
Guest Column: Extreme Partisanship Is Hurting Wyoming Businesses
Rep. Trey Sherwood writes, “Many of my colleagues at the Capitol — and particularly in the radical Freedom Caucus — are actively trying to defund state agencies and programs that I have seen firsthand help Wyoming businesses flourish.”
CSD StaffMarch 04, 2024
Guest Column: Stop Playing Legislative Games
Guest columnist Rep. Harriet Hageman says the so-called border security bill "...was instead a classic bait and switch, whereby the Democrats received a windfall of additional funding for the military-industrial complex, Ukraine pork, and the ability to expedite the processing of illegal immigrants."
CSD StaffMarch 03, 2024
Guest Column: House Of Reason v. House Of Cards
Rep. Landon Brown writes, "You deserve to know what is happening with the budget bill. The type of wasteful grandstanding is exactly what we despise about our national Congress and now we are seeing it infiltrate Wyoming."
CSD StaffMarch 02, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Senate - No Longer Supportive of Energy Industries?
Guest columnist Rod Hendry writes, "In any event, [defunding the Energy Matching Fund] is a message that the Wyoming Senate no longer cares about the core Wyoming energy industries.
CSD StaffMarch 01, 2024
Guest Column: Fully Fund the 988 Suicide LIfeline and Save Lives
Guest columnist Rep. Jon Conrad writes, "By refusing to provide stable, long-term funding for the suicide lifeline, the Wyoming legislature is accepting the fact that loss of life is part of Wyoming culture. I refuse to accept that."
CSD StaffMarch 01, 2024
Guest Column: State Senate In Step With Wyoming Citizens
Sen. Cheri Steinmetz writes, "The way policies are vetted is through legislative process, not a budget footnote that creates a $430 million dollar slush fund for the governor."
CSD StaffFebruary 28, 2024
Guest Column: Do We Really Want Separate Mule Deer and Whitetail Hunting Seasons?
Guest columnist Earl DeGroot writes, "Senate File 111 proposes to offer separate licenses for mule deer and whitetail deer, whereas currently hunters must select one or the other. The bill is being debated with a lot of bias against whitetails."
CSD StaffFebruary 28, 2024
Guest Column: Bill Would Eliminate Property Taxes for Most Wyoming Residents
Guest columnist Steve Harshman writes, "This bill would create a $1 million exemption for single-family residences, thereby eliminating property taxes for 97 percent of Wyoming homeowners.
CSD StaffFebruary 24, 2024
Guest Column: Yes, Small Towns In Wyoming Should Exist
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "When discussing House Bill 70, Rep. Bear questioned if small towns need to receive funding from the state. He asked, 'should they exist?' Our answer is a resounding, Yes. Absolutely."
CSD StaffFebruary 19, 2024
Guest Column: Protecting The Kelly Parcel Is A Win-Win For Wyoming
Govs. Sullivan and Freudenthal write, "We urge the legislature to recognize the commitment of the Park Service and the Grand Teton National Park Foundation and facilitate a sale to Grand Teton National Park."
CSD StaffFebruary 18, 2024
Guest Column: Senate Bill Will Ensure Equitable Access to Public School Facilities
Sens. Affie Ellis and Evie Brennan write, "This week, we introduced legislation to ensure our public-school facilities remain accessible for public use. It would prohibit school districts from charging excessive rental and usage fees for school district property."
CSD StaffFebruary 16, 2024
Molly Hughes: Help Me Convince County Commissioners To Say Yes To My Future Habitat Neighbors
Guest columnist Molly Hughes writes, "Teton County has the opportunity for 45 acres of free private land given to non-profit housing developers for needed housing, proposed to be given by the Gill Family as part of a long overdue housing development. But it’s unclear if the majority of Teton County Commissioners will allow that needed housing to happen."
CSD StaffFebruary 14, 2024
Guest Column: Budget, Property Tax Top Priorities During Legislative Budget Session
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "Let’s be clear. Wielding the budget as a political litmus test or for ideological chest-thumping is not being conservative. That’s obstructionism. That may fly in DC but not here in Cheyenne."
CSD StaffFebruary 13, 2024
Guest Column: Appropriations Committee Trims Governor’s Proposals By Over $100 Million
Wyoming Appropriations Chairs Tara Nethercott and Bob Nicholas write, "Overall, the joint appropriations committee is recommending a budget for 2025-26 that spends $370 million less than the current 2023-24 budget."
CSD StaffFebruary 11, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Mining Industries NOT Headed For Showdown Over Property Rights
Rep. Ben Hornok writes, "I would like to set the record straight about my House Bill 69, 'Mine permit and reclamation plan changes – landowner approval.'"
CSD StaffFebruary 11, 2024
Guest Column: Stories We Tell
Guest columnist Susan Stubson writes, "Is an obituary for the living or for the dead, an opportunity to rewrite grandma’s story or a last ditch attempt to make nicey nice with the one you couldn’t while they were alive?"
CSD StaffFebruary 10, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Already Is Benefiting From Renewable Energy
Guest columnist and Rawlins Mayor Terry Weickum writes, "It’s long past time for an elitist state senator from Fremont County to stop his annual circus and to stop trying to undermine Carbon County’s economic future with his tired old disinformation about the renewable energy industry.
CSD StaffFebruary 10, 2024
Guest Column: The Good Old Boy Glossary
Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "A member of Wyoming’s 'good old boy' political class recently penned a column in Cowboy State Daily expressing disdain over the use of the terms 'elitist,' 'establishment,' 'RINO,' and 'Uniparty.' All of these terms are easily definable - I’ll defend their use any day."
CSD StaffFebruary 10, 2024
Guest Column: Is It A Conservative Principle To Mislead The Public?
Rep. David Northrup writes, "In a recent op-ed Representative Jennings says he has 'been delighted to impart my knowledge of conservatism.' Is it a conservative principle to mislead the public?"
CSD StaffFebruary 09, 2024
Guest Column: No Labels And The Old Wyoming Way
Guest columnist Jane Hill writes, "No Labels stands for the 70 percent of Americans who are tired of being told what to think by the extremes of both the Democratic and Republican parties. We're not just an alternative; we're a reflection of Wyoming's independent spirit.
CSD StaffFebruary 09, 2024
Guest Column: Wyoming Needs A Better Deal From Renewable Energy
Sen. Cale Case writes, "We should not permit consumers in California, Oregon, and Washington to decide the fate of the landscapes we love because they want to use renewable energy to run their Jacuzzis and charge their Teslas."
CSD StaffFebruary 08, 2024
Guest Column: UW Is Doubling Down To Support Economic Growth In Wyoming
University of Wyoming President Ed Seidel writes, "As the state’s land-grant and only four-year institution of higher learning, the University of Wyoming adds significantly to the state’s economy and has for years supported growth in some of its most important market sectors."
CSD StaffFebruary 08, 2024
Guest Column: Gov. Gordon's 2025/2026 Budget Is Unaffordable And Unsustainable
Members of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus write, "We have thoroughly reviewed the governor's budget and would ourselves describe it as unaffordable and unsustainable."
CSD StaffFebruary 07, 2024
Guest Column: Giving Wyoming Parents Choices In Their Child's Education
Rep. Martha Lawley writes, "Education is not one size fits all. The best public school can’t meet the needs of every child, and conversely, the best private school can’t meet the needs of every child. It is about having options.
CSD StaffFebruary 07, 2024
Guest Column: Don’t Be Smug, Wyoming; Biden’s Illegal Immigrant Invasion Is Closer Than You Think
Guest columnist Perry Pendley writes, "Denver will spend $180 million, 10% of its annual budget, giving illegal immigrants housing, food, and other services. As they push its illegal immigrant problem off on other jurisdictions, Wyoming should expect illegal aliens heading north to Cheyenne and Laramie."
CSD StaffFebruary 06, 2024
Guest Column: Senator Lummis Defends America First Against Wall Street
Guest columnist George David Banks writes, "Last month, Senator Cynthia Lummis voted to support the Providing Reliable, Objective, Verifiable Emissions Intensity and Transparency Act despite heavy lobbying from groups that oppose President Donald Trump’s America First trade agenda."
CSD StaffFebruary 02, 2024
Ashley Harpstreith: Wyoming Must Take A Measured Approach When Considering Property Tax
Guest columnist Ashley Harpstreith writes, "As the 67th Legislature once again considers Wyoming residential property tax proposals in the 2024 Budget Session, it is my hope that they will take into consideration all the contributing factors of the property tax system and the local services it provides."
CSD StaffFebruary 01, 2024
Jon Conrad: A Conservative Commitment to Energy Sovereignty and Affordability
Rep. Jon Conrad writes, "Senate File 24 is a declaration of Wyoming's right to prioritize its interests. It revolutionizes the role of the Wyoming Public Service Commission, empowering it to act preemptively, ensuring utility projects serve Wyoming first."
CSD StaffJanuary 30, 2024
Guest Column: Navigating Political Landscape in Wyoming: Voter Discernment Needed
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "Wyoming voters should be vigilant in scrutinizing not only the content of any political message – does it describe the Wyoming you actually live in? – but also its source."
CSD StaffJanuary 29, 2024
Guest Column: It’s Time for Collaboration Over Credit
Rep. Barry Crago writes, "I do not know which Washington, DC insider penned Rep. John Bear’s latest opinion piece in Cowboy State Daily. But whoever it is, he or she has no regard for the truth. The piece is scattered with lies and misrepresentations."
CSD StaffJanuary 28, 2024
Guest Column: Pressure Works -- WYFC Moves 30 Legislators over 15 Points in 3 Years!
Rep. John Bear writes, "Wyoming’s property tax system is immoral and needs reformed. Unfortunately, tax-and-spend insiders in both parties hold a majority in Cheyenne and see no need to reform the system."
CSD StaffJanuary 25, 2024
Guest Column: Lessons in Conservatism
Rep. Mark Jennings writes, "I have watched with great interest the dueling op-eds between conservatives in the Wyoming House and those members trying desperately to convince our state that they are conservative."
CSD StaffJanuary 25, 2024
Guest Column: There Are 187 Studies On Impact Of Education Choice
Guest columnist Chris Cargill writes, "Those across the political spectrum have recognized the need to provide kids with more options, whether they be public, private, religious, charter or magnet. Education choice means all the above. It does not mean shutting down public schools."
CSD StaffJanuary 23, 2024
Guest Column: Importance Of The High Plains Arboretum Cannot Be Overstated
Shane Smith, the founder of the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens writes, "Now is a rare opportunity to preserve the history of the High Plains Arboretum as a Wyoming Historical Site or otherwise take the chance of losing it forever."
CSD StaffJanuary 20, 2024
Guest Column: Let's Be Serious -- A Conservative Commitment To Wyoming
Rep. Cyrus Western writes, "True conservatives believe in lower tax without hurting local governments, those closest to the people. At the same time, we protect Wyoming citizens from seeing their property tax increase simply because the value of their home increased."
CSD StaffJanuary 20, 2024
Guest Column: Property Tax And The 2024 Legislative Session
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "As the leaders of our chambers, we have made responsible residential property tax relief and reform our number one non-budget priority."
CSD StaffJanuary 19, 2024
Don Day Wyoming Weather Forecast: Thursday, January 18, 2024
Snow possible, blowing snow, cold temperatures and windy conditions for many areas of Wyoming on Thursday. Highs range from the low single digits to near 30 and lows from -17 to near 20.
CSD StaffJanuary 18, 2024
Your Wyoming Sunrise: Thursday, January 18, 2024
Today's Wyoming sunrise was captured by Brian Perry in Grover, Wyoming. Brian writes, "This sunrise shot of Auburn was taken from my rear porch on Jan 15, 2024. The Wasatch Range is serene and impressive in the first light of the rising sun."
CSD StaffJanuary 18, 2024
Guest Column: Now Is The Time To Forever Protect The Kelly Parcel
Guest columnist Rob Wallace writes, "The wise decision by the State Land Board to postpone action now gives the legislature time to enact a law authorizing a direct sale to the National Park Service, an outcome that would guarantee permanent protection for the Kelly Parcel."
CSD StaffJanuary 18, 2024
Your Wyoming Sunrise: Wednesday, January 17, 2024
Today's Wyoming sunrise was captured by Jason Glantz. Jason writes, "Here's a great sunrise photo, taken on 1/16/24, silhouetting elk on a ridge in Dubois, Wyoming."
CSD StaffJanuary 17, 2024
Guest Column: My Name Is Wyoming And I'm An Addict
Rep. Ken Pendergraft writes, "I entered into an abusive relationship with my partner many years ago. This partner now provides me with a substance I can’t seem to walk away from, federal dollars."
CSD StaffJanuary 16, 2024
Guest Column: Natural Asset Companies? Hard Pass From Wyoming
Rep. Cyrus Western writes, "We need to call out Natural Asset Companies for what they are - yet another mechanism for outside forces to tell Wyoming what to do and chip away at our ability to control our own future."
CSD StaffJanuary 16, 2024
Guest Column: The Endangered Species Act Is Flawed, There Is Now A Road Map To Fix It
Sens. Cynthia Lummis and Shelley Moore Capito write, "With a less than 5% success rate, it is abundantly clear that the Endangered Species Act is woefully inept at recovering dwindling species populations on the verge of extinction and is in serious need of immediate reform."
CSD StaffJanuary 13, 2024
Guest Column: Uniparty Elitists Are Trying To Destroy Wyoming
Rep. Bill Allemand writes, "Why are the elitists in the Wyoming House of Representatives trying to destroy our great state? They proved last session that they support big taxes, big spending, and big pharma."
CSD StaffJanuary 12, 2024
Guest Column: Reviewing 2023 And Planning For Greater Successes Ahead
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman writes, "The year 2023 – my first year in the U.S. House of Representatives – was quite a journey. While we had our share of challenges, we have also had great success in passing conservative legislation, holding a record number of committee hearings, and tackling some of the issues most critical to our country."
CSD StaffJanuary 12, 2024
Guest Column: Why I'm The Prime Sponsor Of The "What Is A Woman Act"
Guest columnist Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "Those who claim that we need 'Wyoming solutions for Wyoming problems' will sit idly by and allow the feds to dictate policies that put women in harm's way, that stomp on biological reality, and that force us to betray what we know to be moral and true."
CSD StaffJanuary 11, 2024
Guest Column: Let’s Embrace a Culture of Transparency
Rep. Sarah Penn writes, "My bill requires government meeting minutes and recordings to be made available online and requires, to the extent practicable, government agencies to stream their meetings online for all to witness."
CSD StaffJanuary 11, 2024
Guest Column: Ogden Driskill and Albert Sommers' 2024 Legislative Preview
Senate President Ogden Driskill and House Speaker Albert Sommers write, "As the presiding officers of our respective chambers, we will focus on fighting rising costs like property taxes and electric utility increases, placing parents in the driver’s seat of their children’s education, and supporting mental health programs for our fellow neighbors."
CSD StaffJanuary 10, 2024
Guest Column: Name-Calling For Fun and Profit
Guest columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Political name-calling does nothing to advance the debate. It demeans us all. We should not tolerate spewing political platitudes, demonizing disagreers and high and mighty self-labeling."
CSD StaffDecember 30, 2023
Guest Column: Congressional Western Caucus Working Harder Than Ever
U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis writes, "During the past three decades we have grown to more than 100 members of the House and 20 Senators; yet our mission of serving the interests of farmers, ranchers, landowners and rural communities alike to ensure their legislative priorities are heard in our nation’s capital remains unchanged."
CSD StaffDecember 30, 2023
Guest Column: Tim Stubson Would Be Horrible Supreme Court Justice
Reps. Jeremy Haroldson and Mark Jennings write, "We are alarmed by the selection of Mr. Stubson (one of three candidates forwarded to Gov. Gordon), not because we disagree on nearly every political issue under the sun, but because of his active participation in divisive, partisan politics."
CSD StaffDecember 29, 2023
Daily Smile: Tuesday, December 19, 2023
Now let's slap on some Christmas music and watch some sleeping puppies...
CSD StaffDecember 19, 2023
Guest Column: Wyoming Needs To Be Bullish About Energy
Gov. Mark Gordon writes, "An all-of-the-above approach is urgent. Are there new industries entering the state? Yes. Are we abandoning traditional fossil energy? Categorically no! "
CSD StaffDecember 16, 2023
Guest Column: Government Hacks Are Exaggerating Consequences Of Carbon Dioxide
Guest columnist Tom Lubnau writes, "Climate models are being gamed. If the assumptions are wrong, the results are wrong. You hear lots of politicians saying they 'believe' the models are wrong, but rarely do you hear anyone tell you why. Here's why..."
CSD StaffDecember 15, 2023
Guest Column: Wyoming Is Open for Business – Let’s Keep It That Way
Rep. J.T. Larson writes, "Despite the will of Washington, D.C., we must not abandon coal mining and coal-fired electricity production for newer forms of energy but instead find ways for this critical fuel source to remain a part of the solution to the country's energy needs."
CSD StaffDecember 09, 2023
Guest Column: If It Is Populist To Fight For Wyoming, Sign Me Up
Rep. Jeremy Haroldson writes, "If it is considered 'populist' to fight back against the radical left's push to place pornography in our schools, then sign me up."
CSD StaffDecember 09, 2023
Sally Ann Shurmur: Craig Bohl Is Wyoming
Guest columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "I love that Craig Bohl brought stability in a time of national chaos. No names on uniforms. Team above self. He relentlessly defended players who had tough days. Remember the punter at Iowa? I do."
CSD StaffDecember 07, 2023
Guest Column: Let's Slow Down On The Teton County Land Sale
Rep. Steve Harshman writes, "We should consider similar situated properties, e.g., the town of Jackson purchased 5 acres for $29 million (5+million/acre x 640 acres = $3.2 Billion). Everyone in Teton county knows the recently suggested price of $60 million is way too low. I think $100 million is too low."
CSD StaffDecember 06, 2023
Guest Column: Wyoming Caucus And Freedom Caucus Need To Quit Fighting
Rep. Landon Brown writes, "Let’s put the weapons away for a while. Let’s focus on what we can agree on and figure a way to accomplish those goals. Let us all stop bickering and fighting and be thankful that we live in such an amazing state and amazing country."
CSD StaffDecember 05, 2023
Guest Column: Most Americans Support School Choice So Let's Go
Guest columnist Rep. Ocean Andrew writes, "My fear is we are embedding a very unpopular concept into a very popular bill. Why can we only have school choice in this state if it comes in the form of a dissolvable coating to a poison pill?"
CSD StaffDecember 04, 2023
Guest Column: For Decades Conservatives In Wyoming Have Been Ignored
Guest columnist Rep. John Bear writes, "As the saying goes, first they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then they copy you, then you win."
CSD StaffDecember 03, 2023
Your Wyoming Sunrise: Sunday, December 3, 2023
Today's Wyoming sunrise was captured by Ron and Donna Kelsey. They write, "Another glorious sunrise over Stewart Peak in Etna in Star Valley…the reward for being an early riser!"
CSD StaffDecember 03, 2023
Guest Column: Conservative Commitment to Wyoming
Representatives Clark Stith and Barry Crago write, "We are asking all of our legislative colleagues to join us in a Conservative Commitment to Wyoming and support the following legislative proposals when we return to Cheyenne in February.
CSD StaffNovember 29, 2023
Guest Column: Education Savings Accounts: A Constitutional Wyoming Solution
House Speaker Albert Sommers writes, "This Education Savings Accounts bill is a Wyoming solution to two concerns raised by citizens across Wyoming, namely, how to fund early childhood education and increase school choice options."
CSD StaffNovember 28, 2023
Guest Column: Fixing the Property Tax Problem, Once and For All
In a guest column, Rep. Cyrus Western writes, "The Property Tax Relief Act will provide immediate relief from skyrocketing property taxes and reform the system to put a ceiling on future property tax increases."
CSD StaffNovember 20, 2023
Guest Column: Permitting Reform Will Build a Stronger Wyoming
Rep. Bill Henderson writes, "One of the most common complaints I hear from Wyoming business leaders is that the current federal permitting and environmental review processes create massive, unwarranted delays that prevent critical energy and infrastructure projects from moving forward."
CSD StaffNovember 16, 2023
Guest Column: Ranchers And Game And Fish Working Together On Elk Management
Game and Fish Director Brian Nesvik and Laramie County rancher Juan Reyes write, "No good will come from creating division between ranchers, the [Game and Fish] Department and hunters. Advocating for extreme ideas that are unacceptable to Wyoming’s citizens and most ranchers will not get us to where we need to be."
CSD StaffNovember 15, 2023
Guest Column: Gordon Needs To Speak To Wyoming, Not Harvard
Rep. John Bear writes, "It is embarrassing for the governor of Wyoming to give even an inch to the anti-fossil fuel crowd and their utopian view of green energy."
CSD StaffNovember 03, 2023
Guest Column: Suicide Prevention and Mental Health in Wyoming -- A Moral Imperative
Rep. Lloyd Larsen writes, "It’s certainly easier to look away from these vulnerable populations, but we must face Wyoming’s suicide prevention and mental health issues head-on because every life has inherent value and worth."
CSD StaffNovember 03, 2023
Guest Column: "Never Again" Is Now
Guest columnist Mike Krampner writes, "The current attack on Israel is an attempt to 'cleanse' the Middle East of Jews (Hamas actually uses that language). That effort is underway now."
CSD StaffNovember 02, 2023