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Gillette Today
By the People, for the People
Eric Barlow Announces Bid for Wyoming Governor
Long-time state legislator and rancher seeks Republican nomination
Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:08am
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The quiet solitude of a Wyoming ranch house reflects the independent spirit that has long defined the state's political landscape.Gillette TodayEric Barlow, a Wyoming native and current state senator, has announced his candidacy for Governor of Wyoming on the Republican ticket. Barlow, who was born and raised on a family ranch near Gillette, has served in the Wyoming House of Representatives and Senate for over a decade, including stints as Majority Leader and Speaker of the House.
Why it matters
Barlow's entry into the race adds another experienced Republican voice to the field, as the party looks to retain the governorship in a state that has trended conservative in recent elections. As a rancher and veterinarian, Barlow could appeal to the state's agricultural and rural constituencies, while his legislative experience could boost his credibility with more urban voters.
The details
After graduating from Campbell County High School in 1984, Barlow enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps before earning a veterinary degree from Colorado State University in 1998. He then returned to Gillette and worked as a large-animal vet while also running the family ranch. Barlow's political career began in 2006 when he was appointed to the Wyoming Livestock Board, a position he held for six years. He was first elected to the state House of Representatives in 2012 and served five terms, including stints as Majority Leader and Speaker. Barlow is currently serving his first term in the Wyoming Senate, representing District 23.
- Barlow announced his gubernatorial campaign on March 30, 2026.
- The Wyoming Republican primary is scheduled for August 18, 2026.
The players
Eric Barlow
A Wyoming native and current state senator who has announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for Governor of Wyoming. Barlow has over a decade of experience in the state legislature, including leadership roles, and also operates a family ranch near Gillette.
What they’re saying
“I'm committed to leading Wyoming with a limited government that listens, a resilient economy that grows opportunity, and communities that have the tools and local control they need to succeed.”
— Eric Barlow, Candidate for Governor of Wyoming
What’s next
The Wyoming Republican primary election is scheduled for August 18, 2026, where Barlow will face off against any other GOP candidates who enter the race.
The takeaway
Barlow's entry into the Wyoming gubernatorial race adds an experienced Republican voice with deep roots in the state's agricultural and rural communities. As a long-serving state legislator, he could appeal to a broad range of voters, but will need to differentiate himself from any other GOP contenders in a primary contest.
