Columnist Calls for More Bipartisanship, Respect in Wyoming Politics

Cassie Craven argues that political tribalism is harming the state's ability to address important issues.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In her latest column, Cassie Craven reflects on the current state of politics in Wyoming, criticizing both Democrats and Republicans for their partisan behavior and lack of respect for the political process. Craven argues that this divisiveness is hindering the legislature's ability to effectively address critical issues facing the state, such as protecting children and supporting the working class. She calls for lawmakers to adopt a more bipartisan, discerning, and respectful approach, drawing inspiration from biblical teachings about crucifying one's ego and pride.

Why it matters

Craven's column highlights the growing political polarization in Wyoming and the potential consequences it could have on the state's ability to address important policy challenges. As she notes, issues like child protection and economic security for working families depend on the legislature's ability to work together effectively, which has become increasingly difficult due to partisan gridlock.

The details

In her column, Craven discusses several recent events that illustrate the partisan divisions in Wyoming politics. She notes that while she agreed with some positions taken by both Democrats and Republicans, she was troubled by instances of money changing hands on the legislative floor and the failure of 13 Republican lawmakers to support a bill aimed at tightening the definition of 'grooming' behavior and sexual offenses against children. Craven argues that protecting children should not be a partisan issue, and she criticizes Rep. Mike Yin, D-Jackson, for dismissing the bill as a 'political prop' rather than a genuine effort to address a serious problem.

  • On February 15, 2026, Craven published her column in the Cowboy State Daily.

The players

Cassie Craven

A University of Wyoming College of Law graduate who practices law and lives in Wyoming. She is the author of the column.

Rep. Mike Yin

A Democratic state representative from Jackson, Wyoming, who commented on a vote related to a bill addressing the 'grooming of children'.

Wyoming Association of Sheriffs and Chiefs of Police

The executive director of this organization stated that the proposed bill helps tighten the definition of grooming behavior and sexual offenses while setting specific punishments based on the age of the perpetrator and the child.

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What they’re saying

“I don't need to use time in a budget session on bills that are being used as political props instead of solving problems.”

— Rep. Mike Yin, Democratic state representative from Jackson, Wyoming (Cowboy State Daily)

What’s next

The column does not mention any specific future events or next steps related to the issues discussed.

The takeaway

Craven's column calls for Wyoming lawmakers, regardless of party affiliation, to adopt a more bipartisan, discerning, and respectful approach to addressing the state's pressing issues. She argues that the current level of political tribalism and disregard for the political process is hindering the legislature's ability to effectively tackle important problems, such as protecting children and supporting the working class.