Editor's Note: For our General Election voter's guide, local candidates in contested races and races that weren't part of the primary election were given the opportunity to run short articles free of charge and/or to place paid advertisements. The articles serve as a chance for candidates to tell voters about who they are, why they are running for their position and what they hope to accomplish if elected. Not every candidate replied to the newspaper's invitation to be part of the election edition or submitted an article before the deadline. Candidates were all given the same word limit, and articles underwent minimal editing for things like punctuation and formatting.
Jennie S. Malonek, Sweetwater County School District No. 2 Board Member
Hi my name is Jennie S. Malonek and I am running for trustee of SCSD #2. I have only been in Green River for a little over 2 years but Maloneks have lived here most of the past 100 years. My brother Todd helped with soccer for years in this community and my father Robert owned rental properties.
I am a Christian, retired public school teacher. I have a BS inkiesiology, a BA in sociology, a Masters in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Computer Education. I also have all but the dissertation for a Doctorate in Educational Technology. I have credentials to teach: life science, social science, ESL and computer science. I feel after 37 years of teaching from 6th grade to college and covering almost every subject I have a lot of expertise that can be helpful here. I bring a unique combination of experience and objectivity. My default position is what helps the most kids the best? I believe kids need to feel safe to learn. Teachers need to be motivated and administrators need to be trained. I believe schools are places where people should feel loved, honored and cared for. SCSD#2 has an outstanding record but it doesn't mean we can't improve it. I believe in teamwork and transparency and I am an extremely hard worker and I would be very grateful for your consideration for this position.
Tate Davis, Sweetwater County School District No. 2
Hello, for those of you that don't know me, my name is Tate Davis. I am a Wyoming native and have been a resident of Green River for the past 33 years. I am a graduate of Green River High School class of 2004. I am blessed with an amazing family of 5. My wife, who I have been married to for fourteen years, Alissa Davis works for Sweetwater County School District 2 as a sign language interpreter and an assistant coach for the HS softball team, my oldest daughter Macy is a 7th grader, and middle daughter Gerrielle, a 6th grader who both attend Lincoln Middle school and my youngest Blaire who will be starting kindergarten next year.
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, being in the mountains camping and hunting. I also enjoy taking my kids to support the community sports programs, attending many football, softball, soccer games and wresting tournaments. I'm an amateur wood worker. I also refer to myself as building whatever my wife requests for her craft business.
I am currently employed at Tata chemicals in the boiler operator trainee program. I am the co-chair of the health and safety committee for the USW, United Steel Workers at our plant site.
I'm heavily involved with youth programs in the community. I currently serve as president of both the Green River Youth Football league and the Green River girls Softball Association. I also coach in both those organizations as well as the Green River Grapplers wrestling club.
I believe that the youth are the foundation of our community and that's why I have chosen to run for the School board. If elected, I would like to ensure that everyone has a voice, parents, children and staff alike. I believe we have one of the best school districts in the state if not the country. I look forward to helping build on that success. I look forward to working with everyone involved with the school district to insure a bright future for our children and staff.
Stephanie Thompson, Sweetwater County School District No. 1
Stephanie Thompson announced she is seeking re-election to serve a third term on the Sweetwater County School District No. 1 Board of Trustees.
Thompson would not be able to dedicate the time needed to do a good job representing the district without the support of her husband Steven Thompson and two sons, Matthew and John.
"When making the decision, I looked at where the district was when I was elected, where it is now, and where it needs to be, and determined my work is not done," Thompson said.
Even though the district received wonderful news in regards to funding for the construction of a new Rock Springs High School, Thompson knows the pursuit of this project must continue until the school has been completed.
"I have been lobbying and testifying, alongside parents and students, for the new high school and I will continue this effort until the project is complete," Thompson said. "I will continue to fight for our students, parents, staff, and community to ensure we have the same opportunities as other areas around the state."
While the district has made changes to improve the graduation rates and student achievement and is seeing improvement, it is still not where it needs to be.
"I have always listened to concerns, looked at research, reviewed data, and tried to anticipate unintended consequences before making decisions," she said. "I want to continue putting all children first when making tough decisions."
Thompson served on numerous committees including, transportation, wellness, policy, climate survey, negotiations, Head Start Policy Council, Sweetwater Board of Cooperative Educational Services (SBOCES), and the Board of Cooperative Educational Services 5 (BOCES 5). She has served on district special task forces including, Cost Savings, Strategic Planning (twice), and the Smart Start Reopening Task Force, which was needed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We all know how important education is to our students and staff and so I have made sure I have taken advantage of educational opportunities the Wyoming School Board Association (WSBA) has provided," she said.
"I'm dedicated to obtaining the education and training I need to be an effective board member for this district," Thompson said. "If we ask our leadership team and teachers to receive trainings, than I believe I should be doing the same."
Thompson has been a journalist in Sweetwater County for more than 20 years. Currently, she is working as a freelance journalist, editor, and photographer.
Cole Seppie, Sweetwater County School District No. 1
My name is Cole Seppie, and I am running for a seat on the School Board of Sweetwater County School District #1. I was born and raised in Rock Springs and graduated from Rock Springs High School. Following high school, I continued my schooling and received a Doctor of Physical Therapy Degree. Upon graduation my wife and I chose to return to Rock Springs to start our careers and to raise our family. We both felt that Sweetwater County had provided both of us with an excellent education and solid foundation for our futures. We felt safe, included and overall felt like the schools, teachers and staff really cared about us as people and our successes. We wanted the same for our children as well.
We have two children who are currently in the district. One who is a freshman in high school and our youngest is in special programs in the 4th grade. My wife and I have been able to see many aspects of the school district over the years. We have seen some of the most passionate and dedicated staff, teachers and administrators. We have also seen the shortcomings of this district as well. We have watched as many of the amazing members of this district have chosen to retire, transfer out of this district or flat out quit. I had hoped that with time the district would begin to right the ship and begin to show some of the necessary changes which would be required to regain the success that I felt I was able to receive. With time, I, like many members of our community, have become frustrated with the direction of our district and the lack of haste in which I feel we need to be making. I am a person who feels that if I can make a positive difference then I should be willing to put my full effort into seeing the outcome that so many of us what to see. A district in which our students feel safe and engaged and allows them to achieve their greatest potential both academically and personally. A district that our teachers and staff want to work for. And a district our community can be proud of. Thank you for your consideration.
Gil German, Western Wyoming Community College Board of Trustees
I'm Gil German, and I'm running for a position on the Western Wyoming Community College Board because I'm deeply passionate about making a positive impact in our community. As an educator, former adjunct instructor, and an active community member, I understand the critical importance of strong representation on the board.
My mission is to be the voice of the people, ensuring that we effectively meet the diverse needs of our community. Western Wyoming Community College has an array of excellent programs, and I am committed to making them even better for everyone. Together, we can enhance the educational experience and foster growth for our students and the wider community.
I aim to bring the necessary resources to help our community thrive, whether you're looking to earn a degree, gain certification in a trade, or acquire training to advance your career. Additionally, I want to be a valuable resource for local businesses, ensuring they have access to a skilled workforce that meets their needs.
With 16 years of experience giving back to the community through law enforcement, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement Administration and a Master's degree in Education, which have equipped me with the skills needed to support our students effectively. Currently, I serve as a Special Needs Teacher at Rock Springs High School, where I work closely with students to help them achieve their goals.
My background in law enforcement and management in big box retail has provided me with valuable experience in writing policies and managing budgets-essential skills for this position. I believe that effective governance requires a solid understanding of both operational and financial aspects, and I am prepared to bring that expertise to the board.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am excited about the opportunity to serve our community and help shape a brighter future for Western Wyoming Community College. Please feel free to contact me at electgilgerman@gmail.com or (307) 466-2827. Your support is crucial as we work together to make a difference!
Ozzie Knezovich, Western Wyoming Community College Board of Trustees
Our nation's future resides in our youth, and it is a core societal and Wyoming State Constitutional value to ensure our youth receive a quality education and/or job skills training.
As a law enforcement leader, my core values stressed the importance of training, education, and innovation. As Sheriff, I worked with other like-minded individuals to create a highly successful building trades apprenticeship program for at risk youth and young adults to help them secure a better future. My team and I developed an internationally recognized law enforcement training unit. Our efforts culminated in a partnership with the United States Air Force to build a $48 million state of the art law enforcement training center. This partnership was a first of its kind and touted as a model for the future.
Having been a CEO of a law enforcement agency with a $56 M budget, I understand the importance of budgeting, strategic planning, firm partnerships with local, state and national governmental leaders, and most importantly the value of people. WWCC's employees, our community and our area businesses are key to the future success of WWCC's core purpose, the education and training of our students.
My background gives me the right skill sets to ensure our youth receive the best education/job skills training possible, and for Western to maintain its reputation as one of the premier educational/trades training institutions in the region.
My background: Born and raised in the Rock Springs area; served in the United States Army as an Airborne Combat Medic; served 32 years as a law enforcement officer, the last nearly 17 years as the elected Sheriff of Spokane Washington; started my law enforcement career with the Town of Superior, Wyoming and the City of Rock Springs Police Department; retired on December 31, 2022; currently the volunteer Public Safety Director/Police Chief of Superior.
My education: Graduated from Rock Springs High School in 1981; took English classes at Western Wyoming Community College my senior year in High School; attended the University of Wyoming; Bachelor of Integrated Studies in management, marketing, and criminal justice from Weber State University; Master of Science in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego.
Fernando Rodriguez, Western Wyoming Community College Board of Trustees
Hello, I'm Fernando Rodriguez, and I'm running for Western Wyoming Community College School District #1 Trustee. I am dedicated to supporting Western to be an institution that both attracts and educates our best students and helps build our local community. I believe the success of our college depends upon the right investments in staff and facilities and that those investments should be grounded in a shared and well-communicated vision for the future.
I've been invested in Sweetwater County since my family moved here in 1986. I graduated from Western Wyoming Community College in 2005. Attending Western was a pivotal experience in my life that opened the door to the career I've had in Finance and Technology and offered me a foundation of skills that I've relied upon to found and operate my own company today. I've had the opportunity to work at large organizations, like Yahoo!, and have helped grow companies from a few employees to tens of millions of dollars in revenue.
I recognize the value of the institution and know my experience and knowledge will build upon the College's success. I volunteer at the college every week and my company has donated cloud infrastructure to the computer science department. In addition, I am personally invested in the success of Western's students because I have hired them and have recommended them to colleagues.
Further, I believe the strength of Western's graduates depends upon the faculty, administration, and facilities of the organization. Those contributors to success should not be taken for granted and require care and investment.
As a member of the Board of Trustees, I will focus on three elements to underwrite Western's Future:
1 - Shared Vision - Alignment among Western's stakeholders is essential to the College's success. A common purpose to guide our efforts must be the perspective we take when making difficult decisions.
2 - Transparency - We must foster effective communication, both listening and disclosure, to ensure the construction and longevity of our shared vision.
3 - Community Benefit - Our College does not exist in a vacuum and we must strive to consider the prosperity of our students, faculty, administration, and surrounding community. We are positioned to benefit not only those directly involved with Western, but also our neighbors. We should seize that opportunity.
Sherry Bushman, Green River City Council, Ward 1
I am seeking re-election to continue our city's journey. I do consider serving on the council not as politics, but as a public service.
In the last four years, I have made connections to many community leaders that influence the fabric of Green River. The key is to continue with open communication and have our voice heard representing Green River and work in tandem with our Sweetwater County leaders.
Green River Community Activities: City Council Member 2020- current, 2023-2024 President, American Legion Auxiliary, Tom Whitmore Post 28, 2022 Unit Member Volunteer of the Year State of WY-American Legion Auxiliary, 2023 American Legion Auxiliary, Chairperson, Department Legislation, Volunteer Honor and Color Guard, Hole in the Wall Gang- Ambassador Green River Chamber of Commerce, Sweetwater County GOP Central Committeewoman, Volunteer 200+ annual hours.
I earned my Master's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. In my career, as a Director, Credit and Collections in the staffing industry, I have learned that we need to foster relationships and ensure a long-term partnership to reach a successful common goal.
I believe in giving back to my community! I believe in volunteering in our community. I believe in fiscal responsibility and ethical decisions that will secure our economic vitality. I believe in fostering mutual cooperation between our local community organizations. I want to ensure the quality of life continues for our next generation
We are grateful for the business owners and so many organizations that have chosen to place roots in our city and county. I urge our residents to continue supporting our community, local businesses, and organizations.
A special thank you to our city employees that continuously put forth their efforts in making our city a wonderful place to live.
Mark Peterson, Green River City Council Ward I
It's come to my attention that Councilman Bushman has been pushing duties off to Ron Ward I.
Little Mrs. California Bushman can go back.
I would like to continue looking for a new food store. I found city and school land for that project they're not using that land. I would give that land to them to help move that project forward.
I have a big problem with city finances, they lied to me while in office. This won't happen again. The city I love can be more, just get me back in to office.
I will respect your family values. Thank you for your kindness.
George Jost, Green River City Council, Ward 2
George Jost the incumbent candidate is running for a second term on the Green River City Council Ward 2.
George Jost is excited to run. Jost has a long history with the city of Green River and served on the City Council from 1984 to 2000, and he was reelected to the City Council in 2020. Jost also served two terms on the Wyoming Water Development Commission. These experiences have been valuable and are important for his continued service on the Green River City Council.
When it comes to Green River's future, Jost would like to see more ways to use the Green River as a tool for economic development and growth. The city currently has the green belt pathway along the Green River that is well used, and in addition, Jost wants businesses to be able to make use of the river. To advance this initiative and other key development projects and opportunities, the city has budgeted for an economic development position in the 2024/2025 fiscal budget year.
With the expected growth of the soda ash businesses, housing within the city limits of Green River will be a challenge that will need to be addressed. With this uncertainty in the city's growth, the city leaders will need to look for residential housing development in and around the city limits in the coming years.
On plans for the UP Depot, Jost said he would like to see the city plan and to budget to preserve the shell of the buildings to prevent further deterioration until somebody finds a use for the space. The Depot represents an important part of the railroad history of Green River.
Jost stands ready to keep Green River a livable community with great city services, parks, and other amenities.
Jessica Maser, Green River City Council, Ward 2
My name is Jessica Maser, candidate for Green River City Council in Ward 2. Although City Council positions are non-partisan positions I am a registered Republican. I am a proponent of term limits across all levels of politics and am happy to be providing our residents with a new option for City Council.
Sweetwater County has been my family's home for generations. I attended the University of Wyoming earning a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. After graduation I returned to Sweetwater County where I married Mitch Maser, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, and together we have two beautiful girls. My husband works in mine maintenance at one of the local trona mines while I manage a storage unit facility. We both share a passion for real estate and have been working together restoring homes and managing rental properties since the beginning of our marriage. I value the importance of giving back to one's community and have volunteered and held various roles in several organizations including Kari's Access Awards, Sweetwater County Library Foundation, Village Park HOA Board of Trustees, and wonder[FULL] Homeschool Group.
Our community is expected to grow in the coming months and years which will undoubtedly present some unique challenges. Green River is going to need to make some adjustments to accommodate this influx of people. As your representative, I will champion stable growth in our policies and procedures, our housing requirements and our infrastructure needs, ensuring Green River is an attractive and viable option for families moving into our area.
As with any business or household, our City needs to remain fiscally responsible and be held publicly accountable for operating within a budget. As a member of the City Council, I will always advocate for the responsible use of the City's funds, understanding that the decisions made will not only affect our current residents but our future residents as well.
Elected officials should be beholden to their constituents. If elected, I will happily engage in conversations regarding the knowledge and opinions of my neighbors and will take all of that information into account when making decisions on the Council. To the best of my ability, I will provide answers to questions and seek knowledge and resources to address topics that directly affect our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration, I encourage everyone to get out and vote.
Taylor Jones, Republican Commissioner Candidate
I'm Taylor Jones, I am a current Sweetwater County Commissioner selected by the Sweetwater GOP to fill a vacancy about 15 months ago. During the selection process I was asked if I would run in this election were I to be selected, I answered yes and am a man of my word.
I've lived in Sweetwater County since 1994, I'm married to my wonderful wife of nearly 28 years, Stacy. I have two grown children Logan and Lorin who I am very proud of. I work in oil and gas and am a small business owner, my wife and I also own The 307 Real Estate Group. I'm a lifetime conservative Republican. My family has volunteered for a tremendous number of fundraisers and organizations both in Sweetwater County and also around our great state of Wyoming. I have served on numerous boards and commissions, one of which was the Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County Board of Trustees for nearly 8 years. We love Wyoming and Sweetwater County and are very happy to serve our citizens.
Since being appointed to the Sweetwater County Board of County Commissioners, I have worked very hard for the citizens of our county. Not only have I dedicated much time and effort to the normal position of a commissioner, I have dedicated a tremendous amount of time fighting the devastating Bureau of Land Management Resource Management Plan. This plan, if put into place will have tremendous negative impacts to our local industries, jobs, and economy. Not only have I spent hundreds of hours studying and understanding the RMP, but I have also visited with many of you in order to understand your concerns, I traveled to Washington DC to meet with the head of the BLM to directly voice our concerns, and I also served on Governor Gordon's task force in order to give him accurate information. As a commission, we passed a conservative, but I believe solid budget in the face of declining revenues. I am committed to protecting our core county needs as well as abiding by state statutes and a variety of memorandums of understanding which require funding from the county. I do believe Sweetwater County has brighter days ahead combining current industries and the expansions of our trona industry. We have many challenges ahead that will come with a growing economy such as the need for housing, both temporary and permanent, the need for infrastructure, and law enforcement needs, to name just a few. I have already been participating in meetings and work groups to address these topics and will continue to do so in the future. I'm also involved in a working group focused on public access to public lands with the Bridger Teton National Forest in regards to their forest planning process. It will be very important to have strong representation as they are already geared towards restricting public access to public lands. As an avid outdoor recreationists, I know the citizens of Sweetwater County spend large amounts of time in the Bridger Teton, the same as my family does and I want to see us continue to do so in the future.
I am asking for your vote on November 5th so that I can continue what work I have started, and in order to see these topics through. Please feel free to contact me at 307-389-2288 with any questions surrounding my campaign or where I stand on an issue. Thank you, Taylor Jones
Mary E. Thoman, Republican Commissioner Candidate
Thank you for allowing me to represent you on the Sweetwater County Commission for the last 3 1/2 years. It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve you and, yes, stand up for you when it comes to county, state and federal issues that matter to all of us. Please give me an opportunity to represent you for the next four years.
Sweetwater County is facing amazing opportunities but we also face economic uncertainty. It is critical for leaders with experience to make the tough decisions necessary to preserve our quality of life. I understand these issues and, with your support, will continue to deal with them.
Sweetwater County is the largest county in Wyoming. Our county revenue is derived from our rich natural resources. For this reason I have been passionate about protecting our tax base and most of all our way of life.
I am a proud Wyoming native who has deep roots in the state. I grew up helping my family run a sheep and cattle ranch near the Fontenelle Reservoir. I am a graduate of Green River High School and earned degrees from the University of Wyoming and Colorado State University (CSU) along with a PhD in Vocational Education Administration.
As your commissioner, I have made tough decisions. I helped to reorganize the County Fire Department. I also helped consolidate our Public Works Department. Under my watch we have developed a county-wide ambulance service. Critical to all of this is ensuring our budget remains balanced. Yes, I am a proud fiscal conservative who wants to make sure we do it right.
In 1999, I was elected to the Conservation District board and served as their chairman for 17 years. Last year I was appointed to the Wyoming Bureau of Land Management's Resource Advisory Council and am on the Wild Horse and Burro Working group. I helped co-found a Coalition of Local Governments for Southwest Wyoming. For 20 years, I have served as a member of the Executive Committee of the Wyoming Landscape Conservation Initiative (WLCI).
I am committed to continue all these efforts on your behalf. I am prepared and willing to face our ongoing challenges and to preserve legislative intent. A promise to you: I will devote all the time it takes to do the best job I can for you. Vote for quality and experience!
Joyce Corcoran, Democrat Commissioner Candidate
I decided to run for county commissioner because there are no Democrats on the ballot. Where is our representative government? I, and many others, feel unrepresented in every public office in Wyoming. How did this happen? In any case, I decided to put my name in the hat because other Democrats think, "Why run? Can't win!" As a visionary person, I have great difficulty with the lack of vision for our children's future. Apathy is our greatest enemy! I am qualified for this position by my education, by my experience and by my passion for our country and its denizens.
I have four issues that are pertinent to my desire to run. 1. Protecting public lands and all wildlife, including wild horses. 2. Water and grazing management. 3. Development of alternative energy sources. 4. Representative government. This is why I am a Democrat.
Regarding Growth. Zoning laws are necessary for planned growth. There is no doubt in my mind that unplanned growth is devastating. Without planning, the taxes of our residents could go out of sight if prices of housing goes high, as is happening in other counties in Wyoming.
Regarding Budget. Many outside entities are the basic cultural programs that society needs - especially those who serve the poor and needy, the homeless, the elderly, and children. Concerns for people are not given enough attention in the budgeting process.
Regarding Responsibility. A commissioner must attend all meetings and be cognizant of all issues that come before the commission. Each commissioner must have a public relationship with citizens and the businesses and organizations of the county.
Rick Milonas, Rock Springs City Council, Ward I
The great United States is in trouble. There are many issues on every level. Federal, State, Local. I'm running for City Council because I want to make difference in the direction we are headed. I know I can't do anything from the outside but maybe I can do some good from the inside. Start there and see where we are in two years when a new election cycle comes around.
We need change NOW! I think the way we do that is through clear vision, strong leadership, teamwork, and accountability.
I'm very big on education. "It's easier to build strong youth than to fix broken adults."
Property taxes: Wyoming has Billions of dollars in a "Rainy Day Fund." We don't need property tax money, we just need to watch our spending and move money around.
My first major objectives are: Economic development and downtown revitalization. Finish Bunning Park parking and beautification project. Finish Bitter Creek Project (3 phases). Finish 1st Security Bank building. Work to make City Hall more accountable and user friendly.
Sweetwater county is a powerhouse. We need to pull all our resources and make Rock Springs a top 5 Wyoming city.
If you are ready for change, something new, something fresh, I'm your man. Vote for me and I will fight, fight, fight for you, your rights, and your freedoms.
FOR THE PEOPLE - HONESTY - LEADERSHIP - COURAGE - COMMON SENSE - ACCOUNTABILITY
Kenilynn S. Zanetti, Wyoming Senate District 12, Democrat
I am a Wyoming native and a lifelong democrat. My father worked in the coal and trona mines. As part of several generations of my family living and working in Sweetwater County I bring years of experience in business, public service, and political action. I served six years in the Wyoming House of Representatives on the Agriculture, Public Lands and Water Resource, Labor, Health and Social Services, Select Water, and Select Finance committees. Believing in public service, I was one of the original founders of the local YWCA, served on the Sweetwater County-Historical Foundation board and for many years served on the Big Sandy Conservation District which is now the Sweetwater Conservation District.
I have always supported women's rights and specifically women's right to choose control over their own bodies and their reproductive rights. These rights in Wyoming hang on a slender thread. It is only through court action that Wyoming women have access to abortion that may be a personal choice or a medical necessity. A woman's medical decision should be between her and her doctor. To have unrelated people, far removed from a woman's personal world take over medical decisions that have nothing to do with her medical needs to decide life or death decisions is unacceptable.
Living in Wyoming I value our open spaces and wildlife. As a hunter and gun owner, I proudly support public land use that includes managing public lands which would allow hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation. I think Wyoming people value the landscape as we now have it. There are some areas in Wyoming that we need to conserve in perpetuity like the Greater Little Mountain area so our children and grandchildren can enjoy the untouched places we now have. Oil and gas, mineral development, and agriculture are important to Wyoming, but these industries should not crowd out using some of our public lands as wild and free places.
Politicians are always talking about economic development, but this development needs to be balanced. The second most important economic sector in Wyoming is tourism. This tourism depends on Wyoming open spaces and wildlife. To conserve sections of Wyoming IS economic development. I want to be a spokesperson for that conservation. I support public funds being used only for public education not for private entities. I support teachers and local control. I will work to ensure having adequate resources for schools including mental health efforts. I oppose individuals or groups that seek to ban specified books in schools or libraries.
I want to help local hospitals, medical facilities and uninsured children by expanding Medicaid. Wyoming ranks 42nd on women's reproductive healthcare. Medicaid expansion is a win-win for bringing money into the Wyoming healthcare system, and helping Wyoming citizens access needed medical programs and suicide prevention programs.
I want to fund programs that deal with mental health. I applaud Governor Gordon advocating for implementing "innovation, affordability, quality, cultural shift and access-and the used of diversion courts" that will send people into care facilities, not jails and prisons.
I am a moderate. I want government outside of our personal medical decisions.
I am from Wyoming. I am for Wyoming.
John Kolb, Senate District 12, Republican
My journey started at Bergen Tech High School. It continued at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, where I majored in Aeronautical Engineering. Over 40 years ago, I embarked on a new venture, founding Quality Pump Inc. and Electric and Alpha Petroleum Service Inc. This entrepreneurial success has allowed me to thrive in the refined petroleum industry.
My qualifications are not just a testament to my extensive experience but also a reflection of my commitment to continuous learning. I hold a Wyoming Master Electrician license for over 42 years and a CDL. I am certified as a Cathodic Protection Tester. Additionally, I possess a Line and Tank Testing License and other DEQ testing certifications, showcasing my diverse skill set and deep expertise in the field.
I am married to my beautiful Wife, Elivra, and have two sons, two daughters, and five grandchildren. I advanced to head instructor for Rock Springs Tie Kwon Do and am a 4th-degree Black Belt USTF/ ITF with a 19-year career. I was elected as a Republican Sweetwater County Commissioner in 2010, served for eight years, and was elected as your Republican Wyoming State Senator for District 12 for four years. I am the only proven, effective, conservative candidate for Senate District 12. I have and will continue to vote for and be a champion of your personal freedoms, parental rights, school choice, and keeping men out of women's sports and the locker room, your 2nd Amendment rights, A rated and endorsed by the NRA and GOA, opposing all Federal government overreach, such as the Rock Spring RMP. I favor reducing unnecessary pork barrel spending in the state budget and improving transparency. I back the Blue; law enforcement is the cornerstone of a civil society. I support low and sustainable property taxes. I voted for the new and only fully funded Rock Springs High School that my constituents demanded. With over 6,000 votes cast in four years, my overall conservative rating across five sites is 89%. This is a testament to my proven and tested record as a lawmaker, providing you with the security and confidence in my abilities. I have earned a reputation as a well-spoken-thinking conservative Republican Senator. My word is my bond. I am the only time-tested, proven conservative candidate running for Senate district 12. I am asking for your vote on August 20th. Your support means a lot to me, and I am truly grateful for it. Thank you.
Carmen Whitehead, House District 60, Democrat
My name is Carmen Whitehead. I'm a Democrat and I'm running as a Representative for House District 60.
I'm the daughter of an iron ore miner and a stay at home mom. My dad helped organize a union at the CF & I mine in Sunrise, Wyoming which improved the lives of the miners and their families.
Locally, I've worked in the Third Judicial District Court before transferring to the Sweetwater County Engineering, Planning and Zoning department. I was a delegate twice at the state Democrat conventions, and I also chaired the Supervisory Committee for the Green River Basin Federal Credit Union for numerous years.
As a candidate for the House, I stand firmly for a woman's right to make decisions about their own bodies. Bodily autonomy is a fundamental freedom, and I strongly oppose two dangerous bills in Wyoming: Senate File 108, which bans abortion pills and House Bill 152, which makes almost all abortions illegal. The laws don't just restrict healthcare; they strip away a woman's right to choose what's best for her own life. This is a decision that should be made between a woman and her doctor, not the government.
I'm also a strong advocate for public education. I oppose school vouchers that divert funding away from public schools and harm our children's future. I'm also against book banning, students deserve access to diverse perspectives, not censorship. I believe we must protect our freedoms, whether it's the right to bodily autonomy or the right to a quality public education.
As your representative, I will fight for these values and stand up for the rights of all Wyoming citizens. I offer voters a moderate and sane choice. For questions or voter input, please contact: carmenwhiteheadsd60campaign@gmail.com.
Marlene Brady, Wyoming House District 60, Republican
As a citizen of Green River and the great state of Wyoming, I am running as your next Republican State Representative for House District 60. I have lived in Green River nearly 50 years. I am recently retired and my husband, Dell, is the manager of a small business. Together, we have two fabulous children, our daughter-in-love, and two amazing grandchildren, all of whom live in the Green River area.
I am running as your Representative to bring conservatism back to our community, county, and state. Our US Representative Harriet Hageman has asked for all Wyomingites to thoroughly vet candidates to ensure we are voting into office only conservative legislators. Currently, the voices of the constituents are not being heard and the State GOP Party Platform is not being upheld.
When speaking directly to the citizens of Green River, our people are hurting. Property tax continues to weigh heavily upon everyone, especially the elderly. Property tax is based on the 'current market value' of a home, not the purchase price, resulting in taxation on unrealized gain, eating away at any realistic equity when sold. We need sustainable taxation where families and businesses can thrive without the threat of a lien against the property due to inflated, unaffordable taxes.
We have witnessed our local and county representatives voting in favor of increased size and scope of government adding nearly 3 billion dollars to the governor's proposed over-bloated budget and 5 million dollars for an arboretum in Cheyenne. Frivolous, wasteful spending must end. I support a review and audit of our state accounting records to see where cuts can be made, identify wasteful spending, and eliminate any duplicated services. Article I, Section 28 of the Wyoming Constitution states that no tax shall be imposed without the consent of the people or their authorized representatives. As your House District 60 Representative, I will always vote to limit the growth of government, not expand it. I will always vote to limit taxation, not increase it.
Regarding election integrity, I support one paper ballot per valid Wyoming citizen and hand-counting of those ballots. No electronic voting machines!
Any legislation that looks like, smells like, or tastes like anything that threatens our rights or liberties, I will vote NO!
We The People can do this! Join me for Primary Election August 20 and vote for Marlene Brady, Republican candidate for Wyoming State Representative House District 60.
Bob Davis, House District 47, Republican
It has been an honor to represent the voters of House District 47 in 2023 and 2024.
House District 47 is 2,200 square miles in size and represents Medicine Bow, Elk Mountain, Hanna, Saratoga, Riverside, Encampment, Savery, Dixon, Baggs, Wamsutter, Superior, Farson, Eden and Reliance communities.
My past experience on multiple community, county and state boards along with my business background in the oil and gas industry, hospitality business, ranching, conservation issues give me a good background to represent the voters in House District 47.
I currently serve on the House Agriculture, State and Public Lands & Water Resources Committee, Sage Grouse Advisory Group, and the Regulatory Reduction Task Force.
As your representative we need to focus on the issues and how they directly affect House District 47. The war on fossil fuels and public lands affects our jobs, recreational opportunities and the revenue it brings to House District 47. (Rock Springs RMP)
We must seriously consider the drought conditions in the west and how Wyoming addresses the Green River and Platte River Basins and the continuing decline of water yields from our mountain snowpack (Colorado River Compact).
I believe the State of Wyoming needs to push back against the Federal Governments overreach into our livelihood and backyards. Stand up for Wyoming jobs and how we manage the lands of Wyoming, fight against regulations and rules coming from the administration at every turn.
As the war on fossil fuels continues in Wyoming the future may depend upon uranium and rare earth minerals for our jobs and revenue sources.
Tax relief is a short-term solution to a long-term problem. We need to look at how our current tax structure can be updated to meet all the services that depend on it. We can look at the formulas that distribute revenue from the states investment and savings accounts and redirect them to help backfill the shortfalls.
We did pass HEA No. 44 Property tax exemption for long-term homeowners. HEA No. 54 Property tax exemption-residentials structures and land.
SEA No. Veterans exemption amount from $3,000 to $6,000. We also passed HEA No. 13 Commercial drivers license-hazardous materials endorsement allowing 18 year old can receive a hazardous material endorsement on commercial driver's licenses.
We passed several bills to help health care, education programs and parental rights.
For a full review of the new bills passed go to State of Wyoming website at http://www.wyoleg.gov to see new bills that might be able to assist you.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call me at 307-380-6457. I would appreciate your vote in the November 5th General Election.
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