The Wyoming Republican primary election for governor is shaping up to be a competitive race, with four candidates vying for the nomination. Sen. Eric Barlow, Col. Brent Bien, political newcomer Curt Blake, and Superintendent of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder are all running on different platforms, but share some similarities in their policy positions.

Candidates’ Platforms

While Degenfelder is running on President Donald Trump’s endorsement, Barlow is focusing on protecting public lands and Bien is championing a property tax initiative. Blake, who has opted out of traditional campaigning, is the only candidate in the race who opposes abortion bans.

The candidates’ differing views on key issues have led to accusations that some are not true conservatives. Barlow has defended his voting record, releasing a Wyoming Republican Platform Scorecard that highlights his accomplishments on issues such as taxes, abortion, and religious freedom.

Primary Election

The primary election is set for August 18, and the winner is expected to go on to win the general election in November. However, the possibility of a split vote has raised concerns among some Republicans, who fear that a candidate could win the nomination with less than half of the vote.

Rebecca Bextel, a Teton County Republican activist, has announced that she will run for governor on the Constitution Party ticket, citing her opposition to Barlow’s candidacy. Bextel’s decision has added another layer of complexity to the already crowded field.

Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.