Mark Gordon Endorses Eric Barlow for Governor
The Wyoming governor is backing Eric Barlow as the state's 2026 gubernatorial race begins to take shape.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Political Parties
Live Poll
Do you prefer a moderate approach to leadership for your state government?
Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon has officially endorsed Eric Barlow for governor. Gordon cited his personal friendship with Barlow and his confidence in the candidate's ability to practice effective bipartisanship.
Why it matters
The endorsement signals a clear preference from incumbent leadership as the race to succeed Gordon, whose term ends in 2026, intensifies. It reflects an ongoing internal split within the state party over the future direction of the gubernatorial office.
Governor Mark Gordon's term concludes in 2026 after 14 years of moderate leadership in Cheyenne. Frank Eathorne also recently concluded an eight-year tenure as Republican Party chairman.
The players
Mark Gordon
Mark Gordon is the current Governor of Wyoming.
Eric Barlow
Eric Barlow is a candidate for Governor of Wyoming.
Frank Eathorne
Frank Eathorne is the former chairman of the Wyoming Republican Party.
Rebecca Bextel
Rebecca Bextel is a candidate for Governor of Wyoming.
Jim Geringer
Jim Geringer is a former Governor of Wyoming.
The details
Governor Gordon is joined in his support for Barlow by former Governor Jim Geringer, Tom Lubnau, Ann Simpson, and Diana Enzi. Conversely, Frank Eathorne has endorsed candidate Rebecca Bextel, who has pledged to move away from judges previously appointed by Matt Mead or Mark Gordon.
Timeline
Mark Gordon's term is set to conclude in 2026.
Moderate leadership has held sway in Cheyenne for the past 14 years.
Political Context
Opposing factions argue that the state requires a shift away from the 14-year period of moderate leadership in Cheyenne. Critics, including those aligned with Rebecca Bextel, contend that current party figures have strayed from the grassroots base.
The gubernatorial race will influence the future appointment of state judges and the general legislative direction in Cheyenne. Residents should monitor the primary platform debates to see how these candidates propose handling state funding and administrative appointments.
The takeaway
The race highlights a deepening ideological rift within the state's dominant party. Voters are now faced with choosing between candidates who prioritize established moderate governance and those seeking a complete overhaul of current judicial and administrative policies.
Further reading
Learn more about the ongoing shifts within the state by visiting Political Parties.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Wyoming Public Media.
Live Poll
Do you prefer a moderate approach to leadership for your state government?
