WYOMING — More than a year ahead of the 2026 election, a gubernatorial candidate has thrown his hat into the ring.
Sen. Eric Barlow, a Republican representing Campbell County in the Wyoming Senate, announced his intention to run on Tuesday.
“I love Wyoming,” his announcement reads. “I love her honest, hard-working people whose grit and independent spirit make our beloved state so great. Kelly and I have been blessed to raise our children, Kate and Graham, here. I want the next generations to have even greater opportunities and a future here in Wyoming.”
Gillette-born Barlow worked as a veterinarian and rancher before entering politics. He also served in the Marines. He was elected to House District 3 in 2013; he served as House Republican Floor Leader from 2018 to 2021 and as Speaker of the House from 2021 to 2023.
In his campaign announcement, Barlow shared that his priorities include energy independence, reducing property taxes, improving access to health care and defending local control and private property rights.
“I am a leader who stands firmly on sound, conservative principles and who will fiercely defend your rights, including the Second Amendment and sanctity of life,” his announcement reads. “As your next Governor, I will protect your private property rights, safeguard our public lands, and keep Washington, D.C.out of Wyoming’s business.”
Barlow joins former gubernatorial candidate Brent Bien and Joseph Kibler in the race for governor, according to WyoFile. Gov. Mark Gordon, who is finishing his second term in office, could end up seeking a third term if he chooses to challenge the existing term limit, since the Wyoming Supreme Court “has ruled that term limits on the other top elected positions in the state were unconstitutional,” per WyoFile.
