Former Governor Mike Sullivan Endorsed Lisa Kinney
The former two-term governor announced his support for the Democratic candidate’s U.S. House bid.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Elections
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Former Wyoming Governor Mike Sullivan has officially endorsed Democratic U.S. House candidate Lisa Kinney. Sullivan cited Kinney's history of public service and leadership as the primary motivation for his support.
Why it matters
The endorsement from a former governor serves to highlight the candidate’s qualifications and dedication to public service ahead of the upcoming election. It represents a notable show of support for the Democratic nominee within the state’s political landscape.
The endorsement announcement occurred on October 6, ahead of the U.S. House general election scheduled for November 3. The race features four candidates: Lisa Kinney, Chuck Gray, Shawn Johnson, and Jeff Haggit.
The players
Mike Sullivan
He is a former Democratic governor who led the state from 1987 to 1995.
Lisa Kinney
She is a Democratic candidate for the U.S. House, formerly serving as a state senator and working as an attorney, financial advisor, and author.
Chuck Gray
He is a candidate for the U.S. House running against Lisa Kinney in the general election.
Shawn Johnson
He is a candidate for the U.S. House competing in the November election.
Jeff Haggit
He is a candidate for the U.S. House appearing on the general election ballot.
The details
Mike Sullivan, who served as governor from 1987 to 1995, announced his backing of Lisa Kinney in Cheyenne. Kinney brings experience as a former state senator, attorney, financial advisor, and author to her current run for federal office.
Timeline
Mike Sullivan served as governor from 1987 to 1995.
The endorsement was announced on October 6, 2026.
The U.S. House general election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents in the race argue that this endorsement reflects an outdated political approach that does not align with the current priorities of the state’s electorate. Dissenting voices suggest that endorsements from former officials carry diminishing influence in an increasingly polarized legislative environment.
This endorsement directly impacts how voters weigh the credentials of the four candidates competing for the U.S. House seat. Residents should review the policy platforms of all candidates, including Lisa Kinney, Chuck Gray, Shawn Johnson, and Jeff Haggit, before casting their ballots.
The takeaway
Voters should look past the headline endorsement and examine the specific policy proposals that each House candidate has put forward for the state. Analyzing the candidates' backgrounds and voting records will provide a clearer picture of their potential impact on federal representation.
What happens next
The general election for the U.S. House seat will take place on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For more coverage on upcoming races in the state, visit the Wyoming elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wyoming Tribune Eagle.
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