In his opening address for the 68th Wyoming Legislature on January 15, 2025, Governor Mark Gordon struck an optimistic tone, highlighting Wyoming’s resilience and addressing key priorities for the state’s future.
He spoke about various challenges and opportunities, including infrastructure, the state’s energy economy, the ongoing effects of natural disasters, and current national political developments.
Gordon opened with a positive assessment of Wyoming’s current standing, stating:
“This is a great day, and we should rejoice in it. I’m proud to report that Wyoming remains strong and vibrant. There are concerns, to be sure, but our future is very bright.”
The governor emphasized Wyoming’s fiscal health, noting the state’s low tax burden, which ranks third in the nation, and its continued success driven by “conservative values” and “common-sense decision making.”
Addressing Wyoming’s energy sector, Gordon expressed confidence in the state’s ability to rebound from challenges posed by the Biden administration’s policies, particularly related to energy industries and oil and gas lease sales. He also shared insights from a recent meeting with President-elect Donald Trump, where they discussed reviving the national economy, with Trump offering strong support for Wyoming’s energy sector. The governor’s remarks were met with applause, as he reiterated Wyoming’s readiness to contribute to the nation’s economic recovery.
Another key point of Gordon’s address was the state’s infrastructure, which he stressed must remain a top priority. The governor pointed to several recent challenges, including the need to address the deteriorating LaPrele Dam, the collapse of Highway 22 over Teton Pass, and the devastation caused by the 2024 wildfires. He emphasized that investment in infrastructure is essential to avoid catastrophic failures and ensure the state’s safety and growth.
“Infrastructure can serve our state for decades, even a century, but it doesn’t last forever,” he warned.
Gordon urged lawmakers to act on repairs and future-proofing critical systems.
Gordon also took a moment to recognize the state’s contributions in responding to natural disasters beyond Wyoming’s borders. He highlighted the efforts of the Wyoming Air Guard, which was deployed to assist with the ongoing wildfires in Southern California, and the state’s support for securing the US–Mexico border.
In addition to infrastructure and disaster response, Gordon laid out other legislative priorities, including increasing Medicaid funding for obstetrics providers, expanding the coal litigation fund, promoting school choice, and increasing funding for property tax refund programs.
Acknowledging the influence of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus, which now holds a significant position in the state Legislature, Gordon emphasized the importance of collaboration despite differing priorities. He expressed hope for productive engagement, even as he pointed out that the caucus’s focus on issues like voter registration, diversity in education, and property tax relief may not align with his infrastructure-focused agenda.
Concluding his speech, Gordon reiterated his call for a strong, efficient government, one that provides value for taxpayer dollars while addressing the state’s long-term needs. Despite the challenges ahead, the governor conveyed confidence in Wyoming’s ability to continue thriving.
“I know we can work together,” he said.
Gordon underscored the importance of unity and thoughtful governance in the years to come.
With input from Oil City News and Wyo File.
