JACKSON HOLE, WYO – The Teton County Republican Party met on Wednesday, March 22 to elect new officers and revamp party platforms.
Paul Vogelheim, the Board of County Commissioners’ sole Republican, was named party chair. He replaces outgoing John “Tote” Turner. Nikki Gill, who ran an unsuccessful bid for the BCC last year, was elected vice-chair.
“”I’m very proud to be a ‘Teton Republican’ and to have the opportunity to represent the values we as a local party prioritize–especially conservation,” Vogelheim said. “I applaud the incredible work Tote has done in leading the Teton County GOP, bringing in new members and laying the groundwork for success in 2018. We have some incredible young talent here in Teton County, like our new vice-chair Nikki Gill, and I look forward to working with them to braid in younger generations of Republicans throughout the valley.”
Vogelheim vowed to advocate for farmers, ranchers, hunters and recreationalists. “[The GOP] understands the importance of maintaining open spaces and public access,” he said.
Turner added, “Teton County Republicans have a proud history of championing conservation, promoting economic vibrancy and protecting individual freedoms. Now more than ever, it is important for us to stay true to these values–values shared by so many of us who are blessed to call Teton County home.”
GOP members were united in steering the county with a focus on promoting conservation, fiscal accountability and respect for individual freedoms for the next two years. The three central pillars of the party’s increased concentration are fiscal accountability and economic vibrancy, conservation and public access to public lands, and respect and compassion for individual freedoms.
State Senator Leland Christensen was tapped as the party’s state committeeman. Lisa Price was named state committeewoman. The new executive committee of the county Republican party consists of Barbara Allen, Audrey Cohen-Davis, Trey Davis, Keith Gingery, Becket Hinckley, Paul Perry, and Kristin Walker. All will serve two-year terms.
“As the state continues to feel the crunch of the energy downturn, ensuring Teton County has strong Republican leadership both locally and in Cheyenne is more important than ever,” Christensen said. “Paul understands the importance of broadening our base here in Teton County, recruiting new talent and ensuring Teton County has a seat at the table in tackling relevant state and national issues. He’ll do a terrific job as chair.”
Vogelheim said, “There is no question our community faces a number of serious challenges,” said newly elected chair. Be it meeting our workforce housing goals, addressing our transportation needs or protecting wildlife and open spaces, Teton County Republicans are committed to working on—and delivering—solutions.”
