Eric Barlow Announces Bid for Wyoming Governor

Longtime state legislator and rancher launches campaign for the Republican nomination

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:08am

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A serene, photorealistic painting of a weathered wooden barn or ranch house set against a backdrop of rolling hills, bathed in warm, golden sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and nostalgia for Wyoming's rural heritage.Barlow's campaign for Wyoming governor draws on his rural roots and experience as a rancher and veterinarian.Gillette Today

Eric Barlow, a Wyoming state senator and former state representative, has announced his candidacy for governor of Wyoming. Barlow, who was born and raised in Gillette and has a background in veterinary medicine and ranching, is running as a Republican and is touting his experience in state politics and commitment to limited government, a resilient economy, and local control for communities.

Why it matters

Barlow's entry into the race adds another candidate to the Republican primary for Wyoming governor, a key position that will shape the state's political and policy direction for the next four years. As a longtime state legislator, Barlow brings experience and name recognition, but will need to distinguish himself from other candidates in a crowded field.

The details

Barlow was appointed to the Wyoming Livestock Board in 2006 and served for six years. He was first elected to the Wyoming House of Representatives in 2012 and served five terms, including time as Majority Leader and Speaker of the House. He is currently serving his first term in the Wyoming Senate, representing District 23. Barlow is running on a platform of limited government, a resilient economy, and local control for communities.

  • Barlow announced his candidacy for Wyoming governor on March 31, 2026.
  • He is currently serving his first term in the Wyoming Senate, which began in 2022.

The players

Eric Barlow

A Wyoming state senator and former state representative who has announced his candidacy for governor of Wyoming as a Republican. Barlow was born and raised in Gillette, has a background in veterinary medicine and ranching, and has served in the state legislature since 2012.

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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 Wyoming Governor

What’s next

Barlow will continue his campaign tour across Wyoming, making appearances and outlining his platform as he seeks the Republican nomination for governor.

The takeaway

Barlow's entry into the Wyoming governor's race adds an experienced state legislator to the Republican primary, as he looks to leverage his background in ranching, veterinary medicine, and state politics to appeal to voters in the deeply conservative state.