Casper, WY – Voters across Wyoming have chosen Republican State Representative Steve Harshman as the next superintendent of public instruction. The Associated Press called the race at 9:26 p.m. on Tuesday after Harshman secured 79,578 votes, far outpacing Democratic challenger Ana Córdoba, who received 23,674 votes. The count, based on 52 percent of precincts reporting, will be finalized once county and state canvassing boards certify the results.
Harshman’s local roots and legislative record
Harshman, a lifelong Casper resident, spent four decades teaching and coaching at Natrona County High School before entering the Legislature in 2003. Representing House District 37, he has been a consistent advocate for Wyoming families, authoring the Hathaway Scholarship and the Wyoming’s Tomorrow Scholarship programs, both of which expand college‑access opportunities for students from modest means.
Education platform focused on parents, teachers, and choice
During his campaign, Harshman emphasized three pillars: supporting teachers with resources and professional development, protecting local school board decision‑making from overreach, and expanding reading instruction and career‑readiness pathways across public, private, and home‑based education options. He framed these priorities as essential to preserving strong families and faith‑based values in Wyoming’s schools.
What the win means for Wyoming families
Harshman’s victory continues the Republican hold on statewide education leadership, following former superintendent Megan Degenfelder’s departure to pursue a gubernatorial bid. With the Trump administration’s emphasis on school choice and parental rights, Harshman’s agenda aligns closely with national efforts to give families greater control over their children’s education.
Looking ahead
As superintendent‑elect, Harshman will assume office in early 2027. He has pledged to work closely with the Wyoming Department of Education, local school districts, and community faith leaders to ensure that curriculum decisions reflect both academic standards and the moral foundations cherished by Wyoming families. Stakeholders can expect a focus on expanding literacy programs, enhancing vocational training, and safeguarding the autonomy of local school boards.
Election context
The race was part of a broader sweep of Republican victories in Wyoming’s 2026 elections, which also saw Sen. Eric Barlow win the governorship and other GOP candidates secure key statewide offices. Harshman’s win reinforces the state’s long‑standing commitment to conservative education policies that prioritize parental involvement, fiscal responsibility, and academic excellence.
Official certification of the results will be announced by the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office in the coming weeks. Until then, Harshman’s campaign team is preparing transition plans to ensure a smooth handover from the outgoing superintendent’s office.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
