Laramie County Sheriff Investigates 'CheckGate' Scandal

Lawmaker accused of handing out campaign checks on the House floor

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A Republican lawmaker from Teton County, Rebecca Bextel, has been accused of handing out political donation checks to three members of the Wyoming House of Representatives on the House floor after a legislative session. This has sparked an investigation by the Laramie County Sheriff into potential bribery, as well as a broader debate over campaign finance laws and ethics in the state legislature.

Why it matters

The incident has unified Wyoming's typically divided House and Senate to investigate, raising concerns about the misuse of public office and potential bribery. It also highlights the ongoing debate over campaign finance laws and the influence of money in politics, particularly in a small state legislature like Wyoming's.

The details

Bextel allegedly handed out the checks, which were reportedly from another donor, to three House members on the floor after a legislative session. This was photographed by a Democratic representative and circulated. While the checks were legal, the location raised concerns about the misuse of public facilities for political activity. The Laramie County Sheriff is now investigating potential bribery, as state law prohibits public officials from accepting benefits in exchange for their votes or actions.

The incident occurred on the first day of the current legislative session, after adjournment.
The photograph of Bextel handing out the checks was circulated later in the week.

The players

Rebecca Bextel

A Republican lawmaker from Teton County who allegedly handed out political donation checks to three members of the Wyoming House of Representatives on the House floor.

Karlee Provenza

A Democratic representative who photographed Bextel handing out the checks and circulated the image.