Editor’s Note: For our primary election edition, local candidates 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.
Mary E. Thoman, County Commission, Republican
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!
Rose Mosbey, County Commission, Republican
My family and I are lifelong residents of Sweetwater County.
I retired from a 35-year career in the oil and gas industry as Field Business Supervisor for Sweetwater and Carbon County operations. My responsibilities included finance/accounting and asset management.
I have served in leadership roles on many governing and advisory volunteer boards and commissions including healthcare, planning and zoning, economic development, and industry. In addition, I served for five years on the Rock Springs City Council and 18 years on the Unemployment Insurance Commission for the State of Wyoming.
I have always had a passion for public service and a desire to know how agencies and organizations work together to serve the citizens who live, work, and do business in Sweetwater County.
I support the extracted minerals industries, multiple use of public lands, and private property rights.
I have the time, background, knowledge, and experience to successfully serve Sweetwater County.
Joyce Corcoran, County Commission, Democrat
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.
Reid Rasner, United States Senator, Republican
I am Reid Rasner, a proud 4th generation Wyomingite, embodying the unyielding spirit of the Cowboy State. With a diploma from Natrona County High School and a degree from the University of Wyoming, my commitment to my roots runs deep. As a seasoned wealth manager, my professional journey has ingrained in me an unwavering understanding of fiscal responsibility and accountability. My dedication to prudent financial stewardship is evident in every facet of my work, reflecting a strong and principled approach to leadership. Wyoming’s rugged landscapes and unmatched beauty have always held a special place in my heart. I draw strength from the land and its people, recognizing the importance of harnessing this strength to drive positive change. I cherish the treasures of our state and envision a future where its unique offerings are preserved, celebrated, and leveraged to build a robust tomorrow. I am driven by the opportunity to represent the remarkable people of Wyoming on a national stage, bringing forth strong leadership and a resolute voice to the United States Senate. Join me in my mission to lead Wyoming towards a future as limitless as the Wyoming skies, guided by strength, wisdom, and unwavering conviction.
My top issues are:
Term Limits: I advocate for imposing term limits on Congress to ensure accountability and prevent lifelong politicians.
Limited Government: I support small government, emphasizing individual self-governance over rule by a privileged few.
Balanced Budget: I promote fiscal responsibility and prioritizing American interests over foreign ventures.
Pro-Life: I believe life begins at conception and support the protection of unborn lives.
Pro-Second Amendment: I defend the right to bear arms and support firearm safety education in schools.
Energy Independence: I champion unleashing Wyoming’s energy industry to achieve national energy independence and economic prosperity.
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.
Jeff Ramaj, Senate District 12, Republican
From a friend of Jeff’s:
“Jeff has been through a lot in his life so he certainly knows who he is and what he stands for. He will not be pulled left or right. He’s a man of faith and he serves God on every level of his life.
Jeff’s a hard worker, and owns his own business, over the years he has survived several up’s and down’s yet he never stopped pushing forward. He’s a man that knows how to live within a budget.
He’s not a man that will spend money to get votes.
If you want a man to stand up against todays dividing diversity culture they are pushing down on us, this man will stand against it and strike at the root cause of the issues. Jeff has worked in farming, ranching, mining, construction, oil field and currently founder and owner of accurate irrigation.”
Right now anyone can walk in and vote, I will demand you must be a U.S. citizen, resident of WY, to vote, not a foreign national.
I’m for less taxes, less spending, less regulation and less government.
We are blessed to have the natural resource we have and we should be using all of them and not buying them from other countries or states.
All Americans need reliable energy like gas, diesel, natural gas and electricity but our Federal Government overreach is slowly shutting these down. They don’t have a reliable common sense plan in place that accomplishes security and prosperity.
I want to make sure all the businesses in Wyoming know I’m fighting for them to have reliable stable natural resources for their future and our future.
Fighting the federal overreach for our natural resources, will increase jobs in Wyoming and everyone will enjoy the increased revenue for the state that will provide all Wyoming residence less taxes.
We need to protect our private land ownership, ranching, minerals industry, and rein in government overreach.
I’m going to fight to keep DC. Over reach Out of Wyoming, I’ve seen enough of that in my life time.
I won’t hide how I voted on any legislation nor will I fail to speak with my constituents.
I AM JEFF RAMAJ
REPUBLICAN SENATE DISTRICT 12
I WILL FIGHT FOR YOU.
LETS REBOOT WYOMING!!!!
Albert Sommers, Senate District 14, Republican
Hello Green River, Wyoming, I am Albert Sommers, a Republican candidate for Senate District 14 in the upcoming August 20 primary election. It has been an honor to serve as the Representative for House District 20, mostly Sublette County, over the last 12 years, including the last two years as Speaker of the House.
I have deep roots in Southwest Wyoming, as both sets up grandparents were early settlers in the Green River Valley. My mother graduated from Green River High School, and my great grandmother’s house still stands in Old Town. I’ve been blessed to have spent my entire life here, working as a rancher, enjoying our vast landscapes and communities, in one of the last, best places in the country.
I have a deep commitment to serve each of you and the State of Wyoming, so I am running to continue to address key issues: jobs; education; local control; protecting Wyoming’s water; strengthening our core industries of trona, oil, natural gas, and coal; protecting our heritage of agriculture and wildlife; and thoughtful property tax relief.
I have good friends in the Legislature, and I have built relationships with fellow Representatives, Senators, agency heads, the Governor, county commissioners, mayors, industries, NGOs and individuals who represent a myriad of organizations. I believe that I am well respected and well connected in Cheyenne. Further, I understand the importance of the economies of Southwest Wyoming, including the minerals industry, tourism and agriculture, and I have supported those industries in the Legislature.
I have been endorsed by the Wyoming Mining Association, the Petroleum Association of Wyoming, the Associated General Contractors of Wyoming, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association, the Wyoming Hospitality and Travel Coalition, and the Wyoming Realtors Association. Wyoming business supports me, and business provides the jobs that support the families of Southwest Wyoming.
Senator Fred Baldwin ably served Southwest Wyoming in Senate District 14; he has chosen to retire at the end of this year. I believe my connections to this place and my service in the Wyoming House give me solid footing to run for the open Senate seat that Fred leaves behind. I deeply appreciate all the support I have had in the past, and I would ask for your support and your vote in the upcoming Primary election for the Republican nomination to Senate District 14. I can be reached at albert@albertsommers.com or 307-360-7060. Please vote on August 20.
Bill Winney, Senate District 14, Republican
I want to do three things, among many that will arise: Wyoming’s property tax system does not account for inflation and pushes people out of homes, inflation is an insidious “tax” on people with fixed incomes and needs to be addressed, I want the Kemmerer Nuclear Plant to be successful.
When our State Constitution was written over a century ago, inflation was virtually non-existent. It requires all property to be assessed and taxed in the same manner. In this modern era where inflation is the coin of the realm this means people with fixed incomes can be pushed out of homes just on a tax basis. Our legislature uses fixed numbers without addressing future effects of inflation.
The Kemmerer Nuclear Plant offers a new future for Wyoming. I want it to be successful. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will ensure the design and construction of this plant meets US Standards, yet Wyoming’s legislature has some ability to influence it.
Having served as a Chief Engineer on a Navy Nuclear Submarine, I want to ensure the Legislature does not somehow hold it back. It is important to recognize that the media presentation of nuclear power is flawed and improperly presents a sky is falling theme.
At the national level immigration must be addressed. Our Legislature must ensure our Congressional delegation is ready to take this on. Similarly, our Congress is borrowing money at the rate of a trillion dollars per quarter. This must be reined in.
I believe the Second Amendment is simple and clear. I stand behind it as written.
I will work for the people of Wyoming. It is the duty of Senators to do what the people of the district want. I will travel the district and sit down for coffee with people. You never know where the good ideas may come from. My promise to you is that I will listen, work to ensure that I understand the sense of the district and carry that into the Legislature.
I ask for your vote in the Republican Primary Election, August 20. God Bless America.
Laura Taliaferro Pearson, Senate District 14, Republican
My name is Laura Taliaferro Pearson. I am running for Senate District 14.
I am a wife, mother, grandmother, multigenerational sheep rancher, school bus driver, and small business owner in SW Wyoming. My wake up call was the 2020 election and COVID. The reason I’m running is for my children, my grandchildren, my God, my state, and my country.
This election is critical in determining the direction in which our state will head. I wouldn’t be in this race, if I thought the future of our state was safe from a left wing takeover. PLEASE DO YOUR RESEARCH!
One of my opponents touts the relationships he has developed with state agencies, government and non-government organizations, and brags about all of his endorsements from these groups. In light of recent developments (SLLF Board) do you trust your current representation?
I am running for your endorsement, YOU, my employer. I am running because I want a relationship with you, the person who will put me there.
I’m not going to pretend to know everything, as I’m NOT a politician, but over the past two years, I have seen enough to know that the people’s work isn’t getting done in Cheyenne.
My top priorities include property tax relief and reform, education issues, halting federal overreach, election integrity, the war on our legacy industries (oil, gas, coal, agriculture), and in preventing foreign adversaries from owning Wyoming land.
We need accountability, transparency, and elected officials who represent the voice of the people!
Our Constitutional Republic needs us, and I need you to get engaged, do your research, and provide input! The future of our state, and the freedoms we want to pass to our future generations rests in our hands. I have no doubt that we can fix this, with good conservative leadership. Let’s “right this ship” together!
I would appreciate your vote August 20th.
Sheryl DeWoody Foland, House District 15, Republican
My name is Sheryl DeWoody Foland, and I am running for the Wyoming House District 15 seat. As a mental health provider in Rawlins, I have seen firsthand the challenges faced by our community. My journey into politics began when I was asked to help draft legislation for new anti-stalking laws. After successfully advocating for these changes, I realized that every resident has the power to influence our state’s future.
One of my primary goals if elected is to address the high property taxes that burden both homeowners and renters. In small towns like ours, these taxes can be especially challenging, and I will work to ensure that lawmakers in Cheyenne do not overlook our needs. Additionally, I aim to advocate for better mental health services and support, recognizing the critical importance of mental well-being in our communities.
My experience at the Republican National Convention further reinforced my commitment to public service. As a delegate and a member of the RNC Credential Committee, I had the opportunity to engage with party leaders and witness the importance of Wyoming on the national stage. This experience has energized me to bring our local issues to the forefront of state politics.
If elected, I pledge to be a strong voice for District 15, fighting for lower taxes, improved mental health services, and a more responsive government. Together, we can ensure that our community’s needs are met and that our voices are heard.
I believe staying connected with our community is essential. For the latest updates, events, and more make sure to follow my Facebook page. Your engagement helps us grow and serve you better!
Thank you for your support.
Terry Ellison, House District 17, Republican
In the heart of Wyoming’s sprawling landscapes and rugged terrain lies a man whose life story is woven with threads of dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to his community.
Terry Ellison has proudly served as a certified mine electrician for over thirty years, ensuring the safety and efficiency of mining operations that form the backbone of his community’s economy. His dedication to the mining sector mirrors his approach to life –steady, reliable, and rooted in service.
Beyond the mines, Terry’s personal life is a testament to enduring values. Married for 40 years, he and his wife Lou have raised three children, now grown adults, with two grandchildren and a son-in-law.
As a former certified EMT, and a firefighter, he exemplifies a commitment to public safety and community well-being. As a U.S. Navy and South Dakota veteran, his sense of duty was honed through years of military service, instilling in him a profound respect for leadership and sacrifice. His dedication to his country seamlessly transitioned into civilian life where he continues to uphold these values through local church activities and community initiatives.
Recently Terry has taken on a new challenge: running for Republican State Representative in House District 17. Unlike many career politicians, Terry identifies himself as a Statesman – a leader driven by principles, integrity, and a deep desire to serve rather than be served. His campaign focuses not on rhetoric but on tangible solutions to local issues, drawing on his diverse experiences and deep community ties to propose meaningful legislation that benefits all residents of Wyoming. As he canvasses neighborhoods and engages with voters, Terry emphasizes his ability, transparency, and responsible governance. His platform reflects his commitment to improving education, promoting economic growth, and preserving Wyoming’s natural resources for future generations – a vision shaped by his years of service and deep love for the state of Wyoming.
Recent shifts in political alignments have seen Republicans voting increasingly like Democrats, leading to accusations of ‘wolves in sheep’s clothing.’ This phenomenon highlights the complex nature of modern bipartisan politics, where traditional party lines can blur on certain issues. Such shifts often reflect evolving ideologies and changing voter demographics, shaping the landscape of contemporary governance.
In conclusion, as August 20 approaches, Terry’s message is simple yet powerful: Vote for me, and together, let’s make Wyoming an even better place for our children and our grandchildren.
Scott Heiner, House District 18, Republican
Most fairy tales begin with “Once upon a time,” but during election season some begin with “If I am elected I will…” For the past four years, I have demonstrated what I will do as I have served in the legislature.
I have co-sponsored Anti-abortion, 2nd Amendment Rights, and Election Integrity legislation. I have passed laws to exempt small home-based childcare facilities from license requirements. I have increased damage payments for ranchers that are put under brucellosis quarantine. I have pushed back against federal overreach with the Rock Springs BLM RMP, Greater Sage Grouse Regional Plan, and the BLM’s new Conservation Leasing policy. I have participated in legislation to extend the life of our coal mines and coal-fired power plants. I admonish everyone to look at how legislators vote and decide if that is how they want to be represented.
This year voters will choose between the left or the right on a national and state level. I am endorsed by Wyoming Right-to-Life, Gun Owners of America, and U.S. Senator Mike Lee of Utah.
As a state representative, I don’t represent the government. I cheer for the little guy and that is why I represent and work for the people. I am reliably conservative at home and especially in Cheyenne and would appreciate your vote.
Tom Crank, House District 18, Republican
I am Tom Crank and am running to hopefully become the representative for Wyoming House, District 18. It has been my pleasure to previously represent House District 18 as its representative from 2017 through 2020. My experience includes 30 years as a business owner, 42 years of private engineering and land survey practice, 6 years as a Lincoln County representative on the Upper Green River Basin Joint Power Water Board and the last 3.5 years serving on the Lincoln County Planning & Zoning Board. In my professional role I have worked for nearly all the local communities in SW Wyoming along with several of our large industrial plants and mines.
I am a supporter of our coal, gas, trona, power generation, livestock and tourism industries. That is who we are and who built this state. Economic development for southwest Wyoming remains my top priority. I support property tax reform, local control, property rights, the 2nd amendment, public lands in public hands, wildlife crossing and public safety.
I believe in investing in Wyoming. I support putting less money into the rainy-day accounts and more investment into municipal infrastructure. Local investments into municipal projects improve public safety, our way of life and bring other investments into our communities. I believe our current tax system cannot sustain state and local government without some kind of change and a more equitable tax system needs to be considered. Minerals cannot bear it all.
I do not support using public money to fund private education. We don’t need to set up another government bureaucracy. I am not a supporter of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus and its approach to intimidate other elected officials and legislation. Block voting for legislation is not representing the people of one’s district, it is pushing an ideology onto others.
I consider myself a traditional responsible republican trying to listen to people, gather data and make informed decisions for the betterment of House District 18. My vision for Wyoming kind of fits with its old motto, Wyoming, Forever West. To me that motto is shaped by SW Wyoming. Open public lands, where the big decision is not where can we get permission to go fishing but rather where do we stop to buy worms on our way.
If you have questions for me, please give me a call at 307-727-6810.
Laura Mckee, House District 39, Republican
I am Laura Mckee a true conservative republican running for House District #39. My life was turned upside down when I received a call that my 2 great nieces and 2 great nephews were being removed from their home. My husband and I decided to foster them. I am happy to say they are in the process of being reunited with their parents. Wyoming has been my home for 47 years and I have been married to the love of my life for 21 years and we have 3 children and 7 grand children between us. I was in finance for the past 23 years and have a degree in accounting. The issues I feel passionately about are we need fiscally responsible, transparent spending in Wyoming. The state budget increased by 30% in 2024. Liberal spending leads to higher property taxes. We need to limited government growth and to protect the rights and freedoms of the citizens. We need to teach our children the Wyoming constitution and the U.S. Constitution and to love, honor and respect our flag and America. We need to focus learning on the fundamentals of math, reading, writing, science and true history no critical race theory or gender identity. We need to protect parental rights and have consequences for violations. Our schools need to be a sanctuary for our children. I will vote with the constitution, republican party platform and represent the people and make sure the bills protect, We the people, from government overreach. I support election integrity including hand counting ballots it is 10 times less money than machines and more secure and accurate and can usually be completed the same night as the election. I am a hard worker and a lifetime learner. I stand up for what I believe in. We need to utilize the abundant natural resources such as coal, oil and gas they have been our backbone since the beginning. Renewables are not cost effective and do not generate enough electricity. Windmills kill birds and other animals and harm the native vegetation. We don’t need a solar farm in hailstone alley so they can break and be replaced at taxpayer expense. We need to protect our public lands the Blm should not infringe on our right to access them. I love the people in Wyoming, they are tough and resilient and they know how to solve problems without government interference. I would appreciate your vote in the primary election August 20th. God bless Wyoming, America and each and every one of you.
Darin McCann, House District 48, Republican
I was born and raised in upstate New York at a time when schools still had rifle teams and civics was still part of the curriculum. The state changed quickly and abruptly within a decade of my joining the military at 19. It is a bastion of liberal policy and delusion, but it did not happen overnight. I see the very similar slow and steady breakdown of conservative values that make this state great. The oath I took at 19, did not end when I retired from the military.
I am just like many Wyomingites in that I assumed that my representatives in Cheyenne were Republicans who supported the Wyoming Republican Platform. I was approached by a Church member in May of this year and told that I “needed to run because other than Scott Heiner, Sweetwater County is sending only RINOs to the Wyoming House.” I replied that “I don’t think you want me to run, I am not sure I have the temperament for politics.” My temperament has been tested, but God has come through and given me the peace and strength that I have prayed for. I really had no intention or desire to run for office prior to this occasion. I have only recently become educated on the gravity of what exactly is happening at our state’s capital and rather than simply complain, I have decided to join the fight to make our representative republic actually represent the people of Wyoming. I am here BECAUSE these current representatives do not present themselves or their voting records accurately, let alone what they DO in Cheyenne. They absolutely count on the fact that we do not check their work. I have only touched the surface of their work and I assure you there is a whole lot of smoke and mirrors to what they say compared to what they do in Cheyenne. The more I investigate, the more concern I have. Just like I joined the fight to protect our country when I swore an oath to the Constitution and to protect the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic, as an Airborne Infantry Paratrooper in the 82D Airborne Division, and later, as a Special Forces Medic, I have joined this fight to hopefully ward off the political tyranny that IS happening across this state and country right beneath our noses.
Tony Niemiec, House District 60, Republican
After graduating from Green River High School in 1987, Tony Niemiec enlisted in the US Marine Corps, serving for over 13 years. In 2000 he returned to Green River and was hired by the Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office, serving 22 years as a Detention Officer, Patrol Deputy, Detective and Bomb Technician until his retirement in 2023. Since his election for House District 60 in 2022, he has represented Green River in the House of Representatives.
As a military and law enforcement veteran, Tony is dedicated to building a safe and prosperous Wyoming. The Fraternal Order of Police Green River Lodge #2 as well as The Federated Firefighters of Wyoming have endorsed Tony because of his support for first responders.
With out of control inflation continuing to hurt working families, Tony fights to help Wyomingites keep more of their money and promote free market solutions. As your representative, he will continue to collaborate with industry leaders to support existing industries and diversify the state’s economy, and has been endorsed by the Wyoming Mining Association and the Petroleum Association of Wyoming.
In his first term he successfully co-sponsored bills for Property Tax Exemption as well as School Safety and Security.
Tony Niemiec can be reached at tonyniemiechousedistrict60@gmail.com or 307-871-1730.
Marlene Brady, 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.
Sherry Bushman, Green River City Council Ward I
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 II
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 II
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.
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