Gov. Gordon Addresses Election Security, Firearms in the Capitol, and More in Media Conference

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon addressed a range of pressing topics during a media conference held via Zoom on Thursday, Wyoming News Now reports.

Topics included election security, local control, and public concerns over concealed firearms in the Capitol Extension. The event offered insights into the governor’s stance on several current issues affecting Wyoming residents.

Election Security and Voter Registration Gov. Gordon was questioned by Jasmine Hall of the Jackson Hole News&Guide about a recent executive order prohibiting state agencies from distributing voter registration materials to non-citizens in Wyoming. Hall raised concerns that this order might intimidate Hispanic or Latino voters, especially in areas like Teton County, where more than 15% of the population is Hispanic or Latino.

Gordon defended the order, stating that it was meant to ensure that ineligible individuals could not register to vote. He noted that several county clerks found the order helpful, adding that he received pushback after vetoing two proposed voter registration rules by Secretary of State Chuck Gray. Gordon emphasized that his decision was based on legal advice from the state attorney general and the Legislative Service Office, clarifying that the rule changes exceeded the secretary of state’s authority.

Regarding concerns of voter intimidation, the governor stressed that he does not wish to intimidate anyone and acknowledged the challenges of the naturalization process.

Local Control and University of Wyoming Volleyball Match WyoFile reporter Maggie Mullen raised the issue of local control, citing the recent decision by the University of Wyoming to pull its volleyball team from a match against San José State, which has a transgender player. Mullen asked whether this decision, influenced by political pressure, aligns with Wyoming’s long-held principle of local control.

Gov. Gordon responded by highlighting that members of the Legislature often weigh in on matters they are passionate about. He supported the university’s decision, noting that the team was divided over the issue. However, he also acknowledged the university’s responsibility to be responsive to the Legislature, as it receives state funding.

Firearms in the Capitol Extension The governor was asked by the Wyoming Tribune Eagle about the public’s concerns over allowing concealed carry of firearms in the Capitol Extension, an underground corridor connecting the Capitol to the Herschler Building. A recent survey conducted by the State Construction Department showed that 87% of respondents were against permitting firearms in the Capitol, citing safety concerns.

Gordon said he would not dismiss these concerns but pointed out that the survey had a small sample size. He emphasized that the discussion around this issue is ongoing and encouraged the public to continue providing feedback.

Federal ARPA Funds and Wildfire Efforts At the start of the conference, Gov. Gordon provided an update on the distribution of federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). He reminded listeners that all states must commit ARPA funds by December 31, 2024, and spend them by the end of 2026. The governor said some Wyoming communities have struggled to secure contractors for projects, leading to delays. He also noted that any uncommitted funds by October 1 could be “recaptured” and redirected to other projects.

Gordon also discussed the state’s response to wildfires, highlighting the unprecedented damage they caused this year. Wyoming has already spent around $39 million from the state’s Emergency Fire Suppression Account, and the governor announced plans to tap into the state’s “rainy day fund” to access an additional $20 million to continue fighting wildfires.

In response to recent fires, such as the Elk Fire and House Draw Fire, the governor assured that Wyoming is working with federal and state agencies to address the effects on water supplies and other critical resources.

This wide-ranging press conference offered insights into Gov. Gordon’s approach to key issues, including election integrity, public safety, and emergency response.