Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon announced Monday that he is throwing his full support behind Republican Eric Barlow in the upcoming November 3 governor’s race. In a statement released early Monday morning, Gordon highlighted Barlow’s long‑standing friendship, legislative experience, and hands‑on approach to problem‑solving.
Gordon’s endorsement details
“I have known Eric Barlow as a friend, a legislator, and as the veterinarian I called to the ranch whenever we had important cattle work to do,” Gordon wrote. “I have not always agreed with him, but I know he will listen regardless of whether we agree. He will consider all points of view, think things through, act in a measured, committed, informed, and firmly resolved way and in accordance with his strongly‑held conservative values — Wyoming values.”
Gordon continued, “Eric shows up early, stays until a job is done, and never shrugs off work saying ‘that’s not my job.’ When a blizzard shut down the Capitol a few sessions ago and a snowdrift formed above the newly remodeled House Chamber, Eric was the first to take off his suit coat, grab a shovel, crawl through the attic, and begin clearing the snow before it melted. He didn’t wait for custodial staff, he didn’t wonder who would fix it; he rolled up his sleeves and started doing what needed to be done — clearing snow.”
Why the endorsement matters
The endorsement underscores the importance of party unity as Wyoming heads into a competitive race that also features Democrat Ken Casner and Constitution Party candidate Rebecca Bextel. Gordon’s praise of Barlow’s “doer” mentality and adherence to “strongly‑held conservative values” aligns with the governor’s own emphasis on personal responsibility, limited government, and support for traditional Wyoming industries.
State officials and local party leaders have noted that endorsements from sitting governors can boost fundraising, volunteer recruitment, and voter outreach, especially in a state where personal relationships often drive political engagement. Gordon’s statement also signals to Wyoming’s rural communities that Barlow’s background in agriculture and his willingness to get his hands dirty resonate with the everyday concerns of ranchers and small‑town residents.
Candidate background
Eric Barlow currently serves as a state senator and has a reputation for fiscal conservatism and support for the state’s energy sector. He has championed policies that protect property rights, reduce regulatory burdens, and promote job growth in mining, oil, and agriculture. Barlow’s campaign has focused on preserving Wyoming’s low‑tax environment and safeguarding the state’s natural resources.
Democratic challenger Ken Casner is positioning himself as a moderate alternative, emphasizing education funding and healthcare access, while Constitution Party nominee Rebecca Bextel is running on a platform of limited government and strict constitutional adherence.
Election timeline
Early voting in Wyoming is already underway, and the state’s election officials have urged voters to cast their ballots before the November 3 deadline. The governor’s endorsement is expected to be featured in upcoming campaign events, radio interviews, and local newspaper columns as the race intensifies.
Gordon noted that additional endorsements from other state leaders will be announced in the coming weeks, further solidifying the Republican slate’s momentum heading into the final stretch of the campaign.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
