Seven Republican candidates vying for Wyoming’s lone U.S. House of Representatives seat faced a blustery Casper wind on Wednesday to debate and pitch their platforms to voters during the first Politics in the Park forum of the 2026 election season. The contenders are campaigning to succeed Rep. Harriet Hageman, who is vacating the House seat to run for the U.S. Senate position left open by retiring Sen. Cynthia Lummis.
Candidates’ Platforms
Hosted by the Natrona County Republican Party and the Natrona County Republican Women, the forum featured Wyoming Senate President Bo Biteman, former Superintendent of Public Instruction Jillian Balow, Casper native and military veteran Kevin Christensen, Secretary of State Chuck Gray, businessman and conservative activist Steve Friess, Casper-raised military veteran David Giralt, and former state Sen. Keith Goodenough.
When asked about federal legislation they would champion, Gray and Friess both spoke about the SAVE America Act, prioritizing strict voting laws. Balow pointed to the SPEED and PERMIT acts, arguing that Congress needs to reduce red tape and eliminate climate change considerations that hold up the energy industry.
Energy and Economy
The candidates frequently circled back to what they believe are the state’s most crucial challenges, citing the cost of living, inflation, and the exodus of Wyoming’s youth. Goodenough said healthcare is undoubtedly the most pressing issue in Wyoming, pointing to rural clinics closing and a lack of specialists and emergency responders.
Friess agreed that unlocking Wyoming’s energy potential is the simple solution to keeping families together and providing great jobs for younger generations. When asked how to retain youth, Giralt said the government needs to get out of the way and let free-market dynamism welcome business and innovation.
Conclusion
The candidates’ discussion highlighted the importance of addressing Wyoming’s unique challenges, from energy and economy to healthcare and education. As the election season progresses, these issues will likely remain at the forefront of the debate.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
