Eric Barlow’s statement on responsible energy development

Wyoming can develop resources and still respect land, water, and the people who live on it. That’s the standard I’ve lived by my whole life.

Where It Began

My family helped start the Powder River Basin Resource Council in the early 1970s as a local landowner group, and the reason was simple: major coal mining proposals were moving quickly, and neighbors needed a coordinated way to ask hard questions and protect what they had built over generations, which was their working lands, water and property rights.

The point was never to stop mining development. The point was to make sure Wyoming developed coal responsibly. Many of those same ranches had already lived alongside energy development for years. It was a Wyoming response to a Wyoming problem: development with local input, fair terms, and real accountability. The same expectations that show up today in communities across Wyoming.

What Changed

Over the decades, that organization grew, and its mission broadened into a statewide advocacy operation with priorities and litigation that no longer matched its original local-landowner purpose. I no longer felt comfortable with the proposed solutions, especially in my role as an elected representative for my community and Wyoming. So, I left.

Their priorities changed. Mine didn’t. I support Wyoming energy and the men and women who power this state, and I insist that private property and water rights are respected.

My Record

Our ranch has hosted oil development for more than 70 years. We’ve worked productively with operators because the relationship is built on mutual respect, clear expectations, and responsible development. That’s what works in Wyoming: practical solutions and fair dealing.

I took that same approach during the fast-moving coalbed methane boom. When legitimate concerns arose around downstream water, soils, and property rights, I pushed for practical solutions that minimized impacts and reduced conflict. Because, again, I don’t want to stop responsible development. I want the jobs and the dollars it brings for Wyoming’s communities. In Wyoming, we develop the right way so our children and their grandchildren can have the same opportunities on the landscapes that we have and love.

Alongside oil and gas interests, I served on a state coalbed methane working group focused on improving outcomes and communication between landowners and operators which allowed coalbed methane to continue to be produced. When people are heard, and problems get solved, Wyoming wins.

What I’ll do as Governor:

As Governor, I’ll continue to stand for the Wyoming values most people live by:

• Develop our resources responsibly—with clear rules and predictable expectations that keep Wyoming strong and competitive.

• Protect private property and water rights—with respect, transparency, and fair terms.

• Neighbor-first problem solving—because Wyoming works when people are heard and treated fairly.

• Build a robust economy—powered by energy, agriculture, tourism and the workers who keep Wyoming running.

Wyoming can lead the nation in resource development and protect what makes this place worth fighting for. We listen first, we build responsibly, and we do it right the first time.

–Eric Barlow

Lovell Chronicle: Barlow says he answers to Wyoming, not White House

Republican gubernatorial candidate Eric Barlow told a crowd of about 25 people at the Lovell Fire Hall last Wednesday that Wyoming’s future depends on strong communities, limited government and leaders willing to answer to the people of Wyoming rather than political factions or pressure from Washington.

Barlow is a fourth-generation rancher, Marine Corps veteran, large-animal veterinarian and longtime Wyoming legislator. He was introduced by former Wyoming House member from Lovell, Elaine Harvey, who described Barlow as both a “trusted colleague and a close friend.”

Read more in the Lovell Chronicle

Cody Enterprise: Barlow says he will use Wyoming’s ‘bully pulpit’ to defend public lands, state interests

“I was born Eric and I’ll die Eric.” So goes one of the common refrains heard on the campaign trail as the Gillette-born state Sen.Eric Barlow’s campaign for governor kicks into high gear.

Barlow, who announced his candidacy last year, returned to Park County this week for a whistle-stop tour with a dinner in Cody on Tuesday evening followed by a breakfast with a group of about 45 supporters at the Irma Hotel on Wednesday. Barlow took questions from prospective voters on a number of topics ranging from public lands and rural healthcare to intra-party conflicts and the state’s economic future.

Read more in the Cody Enterprise.

Cowboy State Daily: Jake’s morning Show Mar. 26th

Thanks for having me on the Cowboy State Daily Morning show. Never a dull moment with Jake at the mic!

We covered campaign updates, including what I'm hearing in my travels, endorsements I am excited about, and my platform positions. Have a listen.

Watch and listen on Cowboy State Daily here.

Jackson hole news and guide: Barlow wants to avoid the 'mud' in anticipated multi-million dollar Wyoming governor's race

Expecting the governor’s race to be expensive and competitive, Sen. Eric Barlow is putting thousands of miles on his car, shaking hands and building as many connections as he can.

He’s also bowing his head.

Barlow and his wife, Kelly, prayed for safe travels and good weather on Thursday before driving toward the Tetons. At Roosevelts, a Jackson restaurant owned by Kristin Walker, Sen. Cynthia Lummis’ former chief of staff, Barlow said winning the race would come down to three things: money, votes — and prayer.

Read more in the Jackson Hole News and Guide

Wake Up Wyoming: Eric Barlow is running for governor of wyoming

Add Eric Barlow's name to your list of candidates for Governor of Wyoming.

He was good enough to join Glenn Woods on the Wake Up Wyoming morning show to talk about his life in Wyoming, his years in Wyoming politics, and why he is running for Governor on the GOP ticket.

You can listen to the interview with Glenn here.

WyoFILE: A turning point for public lands and the businesses they support

An opinion piece by Ellen and Steve Bechtel:

What a difference a year makes.

By most accounts, 2025 was a difficult year for the champions of America’s public lands. Challenges came from almost every front, including Wyoming’s own statehouse, where  Senate Joint Resolution 2 called for the transfer of all federal land in Wyoming (except Yellowstone National Park) to the state. It was defeated in the Senate by a single vote.

This year, however, Wyoming reached a monumental turning point. Rather than calling for the transfer — and eventual selloff — of our state’s 30 million acres of public lands, the Wyoming Legislature passed a resolution that calls on Congress to recognize the value of keeping our public lands in public hands. Flanked by legislators, hunters and outdoor advocates, Gov. Mark Gordon signed the bill late last week in a public ceremony.

Read more on WyoFile.

Oil CIty News: Firearm rights restoration may soon be possible for nonviolent offenders

CASPER, Wyo. — When someone’s firearm rights are restored in another state, do those rights cross the border into Wyoming, or stop at the state line? At what age should an individual be allowed to obtain a concealed carry permit?

Those questions moved closer to answers this week as House Bill 0039 and House Bill 0096 cleared the Wyoming Senate Committee of the Whole with a “do pass” recommendation. Lawmakers also advanced House Bill 0098, a measure addressing Wyoming’s prohibition on red flag gun seizures by adding criminal penalties for violations.

According to Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette, HB 0039, “Firearms rights–restoration amendments,” would clarify that Wyoming recognizes firearm rights restorations granted by other states — a recognition that, according to lawmakers, was unintentionally interrupted last year.

Read more at Oil City News

Wyoming NEws NOW: Barlow for Wyoming Governor on-air segment

Great conversation with Wyoming News Now about my campaign for Governor. I’m running to bring conservative principles and real results to the people of Wyoming.

Watch on Wyoming News Now Here

KOTA: Wyoming legislature passes Stem Cell Freedom Act, giving access to unapproved treatments

CHEYENNE, W.Y. (KOTA) - People in Wyoming will soon be able to ask their doctors for stem cell therapy after the legislature unanimously passed the Stem Cell Freedom Act.

“What this bill does is provide safe healthcare within a legal framework,” the bill’s sponsor, senator Eric Barlow said.

The bill would allow doctors to recommend and perform stem cell therapies that use a patient’s own cells, even if those specific treatments are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Barlow said he believes the federal government is lagging behind science in this area.

Read more from KOTA Territory News

Gillette News Record: Stem Cell Freedom Act passes House and Senate without a single 'no' vote

A bill that would allow Wyoming patients to try a new type of stem cell therapy has breezed through both sides of the Wyoming Legislature.

Senate File 48, the Stem Cell Freedom Act, passed the Senate on a 31-0 vote on Feb. 19, and Wednesday it was recommended for approval on a 9-0 vote by the House Labor Committee. On Friday, the House passed it on a 59-0 vote.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette, would give patients the ability to try a form of stem cell therapy where their own stem cells are extracted, grown and put into doses for future use.

Read more in the Gillette News Record

Morning SHow with Jake: Feb. 17th

We were back at the CSD Morning Show with Jake this week, talking about protecting public lands in Wyoming and the Right to Try stem cell bill. Have a listen!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq_sp93G97Y

Cowboy State Daily: Wyoming Lawmakers Move To Bypass FDA On Stem Cell Treatments

The Senate Labor, Health and Social Services Committee on Friday voted unanimously to advance the “Stem Cell Freedom Act,” a proposal that would allow Wyoming physicians to provide certain stem cell treatments not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The bill, SF 42, would create medical guidelines and provide a legal shield against state licensing discipline for doctors using “autologous mesenchymal stem cells,” which are stem cells derived from a person’s fat, bone marrow or connective tissue, and then re-injected to different target areas of the body.

The effort could help patients address intractable health problems by providing a framework for a promising medical technology that’s outpacing federal regulators, said bill sponsor, Sen. Eric Barlow, R-Gillette.

Read the rest of the article on Cowboy State Daily

Protecting Wyoming Beef Producers

American farmers and ranchers raise the safest and highest quality beef in the world. Consumers know us as their neighbors, friends, and families, whose hard work delivers not only great protein, but also stewards of the animals, land, and water for future generations.

Last week, the federal government quadrupled the amount of beef Argentina can send to the United States with no increased inspection protocols. The Administration got this one wrong. Increasing low-tariff beef imports from Argentina undermines American cattle producers, including many in Wyoming.

Wyoming ranchers should be able to have a strong market to sell their beef free from misguided government intervention.

I am confident Americans will choose domestic beef if they know where it comes from. Wyoming ranchers and farmers need to have the option to label their products as “Wyoming Beef”.

I stand with Wyoming’s ranching and agricultural community.

Eric Barlow Interviews with Cowboy State Daily Morning Show

Eric had a great visit with Jake on the Cowboy State Daily morning show. A lot of topics covered. From the upcoming legislative session to the campaign for Governor. Jake always keeps things interesting.

Watch the full interview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nY3BPYFgnY8

Barlow Introduces Stem Cell Freedom Act as FDA Delays Persist

GILLETTE, WY — Senator Eric Barlow announced an important measure to advance healthcare opportunities in Wyoming: the Stem Cell Freedom Act. The proposal gives patients access to stem cell therapies using their own cells, citing the slow pace of federal approval processes and the need for states to act when Washington fails to keep up with medical innovation. Barlow has been involved in the policy conversation since 2024, after being approached by a constituent.

The Stem Cell Freedom Act (SF0048) establishes a clear, responsible framework allowing physicians to recommend and perform stem cell therapies that have not yet received full approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The legislation provides strong safeguards, informed consent and ensures medical standards are met.

“For too many patients, the federal system moves far slower than illness or injury,” Barlow said. “When someone is facing a serious medical decision, they shouldn’t be told their only option is to wait for years for Washington to catch up with the science. The legislation reflects Wyoming’s Right To Try approach, which is designed to empower patients, protect physicians who act responsibly, and keep government out of the way.”
Under the bill, patients may access therapies that use their own cells for life-improving treatments. These cells are often harvested from fat tissue and are done in accordance with medical practice standards. The bill expressly prohibits the use of any biological material derived from abortion.

“This is medicine that uses a person’s own cells to help the body heal,” Barlow said. “Wyoming is making it clear: there are no embryonic cells, and no ethical shortcuts.” The measure requires written informed consent, ensuring patients understand the therapy is not FDA-approved, the potential risks and benefits, and the financial responsibility involved. Health insurers would be permitted, but not required, to cover the treatments.
“The bill doesn’t force anyone into treatment, and it doesn’t remove accountability,” Barlow explained. “It simply ensures that when patients and doctors are acting responsibly and transparently, the state doesn’t stand in the way.”

If advanced, the Stem Cell Freedom Act would position Wyoming as a leader in patient-centered medical policy, expanding access to emerging and innovative therapies, while maintaining strong safeguards, ethical clarity, and professional accountability.
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https://wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/SF0048

Barlow Introduces Statewide Campaign Leadership

GILLETTE, WY — Five months ago, Eric Barlow announced his Republican candidacy for Governor of Wyoming. When asking for support from other Wyomingites, he shared, “As Governor, I will continue to serve with the same commitment I’ve always had— being faithful to Wyoming, always listening to the people, and always focused on delivering results. Together, we can secure a future in which Wyoming remains the freest, most prosperous, and most independent state in the country.” 

Today, Eric Barlow announced a statewide leadership team that represents the heart of Wyoming—ranchers, small-business owners, energy workers, parents, veterans, young professionals and community leaders who believe deeply in the future of our state. Each brings firsthand knowledge of their communities and a commitment to ensuring that Wyoming’s next chapter is built by the people who call this place home.

“These folks aren’t professional politicians—they’re neighbors and friends who care about Wyoming and want to help keep our state strong,” Barlow said. “Their leadership will help guide this campaign the same way Wyoming people make decisions every day: by listening first, understanding the needs of our communities, and working together to get things done.”

The team is led by Diana Enzi and Tony Ross, and includes a growing list of engaged Wyomingites, including:

Aaron Anderson

Fred and Parry Baldwin

Bob and Rosie Berger

Gregg and Jackie Blikre

Denise Burke

Dave and Sheila Bush

Troy and Ivy Castleberry

Becky Constantino

Lily Crago 

Brad and Jan Cundy

Tom and Renee Davis

Rhonda Dilts

Madeline Elston

Fred Emerich  and Keren Meister Emerich

John Espy

Tim and Jamie Flitner

Dan and Kandi Furphy

Rob and Mary Garland

Ron Harvey

JJ Healy

Mike Jones

Nick and Norine Kasperik

Dan and Lynn Kirkbride

Ted and Laura Ladd

Bill and Marcia Lambert

Mary Lankford

Khale and Sarah Lenhart

Laura Lewis

Tom and Rita Lubnau

Darren and Kim Lynde

Sandy and Bob Newsome

Mike and Kate Martin

Bruce McCormack

Chris and  Stacie McDonald

John and Kathleen McKinley

Ty and Briley Miller

Frank and Elaine Moore

Josh and Kayla Moore

Terry and Cory Moss

Kelly Neville

Marilyn Novotny

Ray Peterson

Ruth Ann Petroff

Bruce and Carla Pivic

John Robitaille

Craig and Rebecca Rood

Doug and Susan Samuelson

Gregg and Robin Schamber

Phillip and Shurie Scheel

Ben and Lacey Schiffer

Roger and Marcia Shanor

Sarah Jo and Cody Sinclair

Larry and Peg Smith

Albert and Sue Sommers

Erin Taylor

Jennifer Thomson 

Toni Thomson

Chuck and JoAnn Tweedy

JR and Theresa Twiford

Fred and Susie von Ahrens

Michael and Margie Von Flatern

Matt Wanner and Michelle Koch

JD and Laurie Wasserburger

Jeff and Tracy Wasserburger

John and Shelby Weitzel

Roger Wesnitzer

Matt and Andrea Wood

James and Beth Worthen

The leadership team will support county-level organizing and help ensure the campaign continues to reflect the voices of Wyoming's people.

Cash-based Budgeting: A Transparent, Stable Approach to State Budgeting

In Wyoming, we don’t forget where public money comes from. It comes from the people who work hard. The folks who get up early, stay late, and do the jobs that keep this state moving. Those dollars come from families, workers, and businesses who expect their government to treat public money with the same discipline and respect they use at their own kitchen tables.

As Governor, I will keep our budgets lean, efficient, and honest. That means we budget and spend what we actually have, not what we hope for. 

Families and small businesses plan within their means. They make decisions based on the income they can count on, not uncertain projections. Wyoming’s government should operate with that same discipline by grounding its budget with real dollars that are in the bank.

Our current budgeting process is based on what we hope to collect. The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group (CREG) analyzes trends and estimates what we expect the state to receive in tax dollars. The Governor then proposes a budget, and the legislature makes its adjustments. Both use the CREG’s work product. 

While the CREG is diligent in its approach and conservative with its estimates, we can strengthen the state budgeting process by gradually building one to two years of cash reserves so the state’s budget is supported by money we already have. This approach is “cash-based budgeting.”

When the government builds a budget on projections, we risk overcommitting in boom years and scrambling when revenues drop. A cash-based approach avoids those swings by ensuring every expense is backed by a real dollar, instead of shifting forecasts.

Whether it is state or local governments, this is the kind of enhanced fiscal discipline and transparency people deserve from their government. Wyomingites want to know their money is spent responsibly, whether it comes from a sales tax receipt or earnings from our Permanent Mineral Trust Fund. Cash-based budgeting provides a clear guardrail against overspending by ensuring essential services are funded first and that any surplus is carefully evaluated for long-term need and sustainability.

Depending on the year, between 40 and 50 percent of Wyoming’s budget is funded by mineral and energy revenues, and those revenues can change quickly when markets shift. Another 20 to 30 percent is generated from investment income, which is also dependent on unpredictable markets. A cash-based system helps smooth out the highs and lows, allowing the state to save in strong years and maintain essential services during lean ones. Wyoming’s core industries will always rise and fall, but that doesn’t mean our budgeting should. 

Barlow Raises Over $500k, Brings Historic Fundraising Momentum Into 2026

Eric Barlow’s campaign for Governor of Wyoming is closing out the year with unprecedented momentum, reporting just over half a million dollars raised. The amount places the campaign on pace for one of the strongest fundraising efforts of any Wyoming gubernatorial race in Wyoming’s history. 

“I entered this race to continue serving Wyoming, not to climb the political ladder or play wait-and-see politics,” Barlow added. “As we head into the new year, I’m grateful for the trust people have placed in this campaign, and I’ll keep working every day to earn it.” 

Since launching his campaign, Barlow has received broad, grassroots support from Wyomingites across all 23 counties. His campaign has signed up hundreds of volunteers, has over 460 Wyoming donors, and has more than $390,000 in cash on hand to carry forward into 2026.

“This campaign is being built by Wyoming people who believe in Wyoming solutions,” Barlow said. “This level of support is humbling, and it tells me that folks are ready for leadership that listens, respects local communities, and puts the long-term future of this state first.”

“Wyoming people know Eric Barlow, and they trust his steady leadership,” said Diana Enzi, co-chair of the Barlow for Wyoming campaign committee. “This early support reflects real confidence in his commitment to practical solutions for Wyoming’s future.”

The strong fundraising comes alongside growing statewide engagement. Over the past five months, the campaign has expanded its footprint across Wyoming, with supporters hosting events, volunteering, and helping carry Barlow’s practical conservative message into their own communities. Campaign leadership attributes the fundraising success to a focus on direct voter engagement and a campaign grounded in Wyoming values rather than national political trends.

“This unprecedented early support reflects what we know about our Wyoming neighbors,” said Tony Ross, co-chair of the Barlow for Wyoming campaign committee. “They are responding to a campaign built on experience, service and respect, and they’re ready for steady, capable leadership.” 

Looking ahead, the campaign plans to build on its momentum with expanded outreach, additional community events, and continued engagement with voters across Wyoming. January will include events in Campbell County, the Big Horn Basin, and both southwest and northwest Wyoming. February and early March will focus on the 2026 legislative budget session, during which Barlow will host events across the southeastern part of the state.

Op-Ed: The Wyoming Way: Neighbor Helping Neighbor

By Senator Eric Barlow

In Wyoming, we don’t wait for others to fix our problems—we roll up our sleeves and help each other. When government systems stall or break down, families, churches, and food pantries step forward. That’s the Wyoming way.

Tens of thousands of people across our state depend on federal food assistance to get by. When that support is interrupted—as can happen during shutdowns or funding lapses—our local communities step in. Families come together, volunteers pitch in, and neighbors quietly ensure no one goes hungry.

Losing support overnight is frightening, especially for seniors, working parents, and veterans on fixed incomes. But it also reminds us of what keeps our state strong: the simple habit of looking out for each other.

Across Wyoming, food pantries and community groups are stepping up to meet growing needs. Their efforts remind us that generosity isn’t about policies, it’s about people. When one neighbor helps another, it strengthens the entire community.

Public service isn’t limited to elected office or government programs. It lives in every person willing to help without being asked, to give without expecting credit, and to lead by example. It’s the quiet acts of service—the neighbor who plows a driveway, the ranch family delivering hay to a friend in need, the church group stocking a food shelf—that hold our communities together. 

If you’re able, donate to your local food bank; even a few dollars can go a long way in a small town. Volunteer to prepare meals or deliver groceries to families, seniors, and veterans facing food insecurity. Check in on your neighbors, especially those who live alone or may need a hand through the winter. Support the churches, 4-H clubs, and civic groups that quietly make Wyoming stronger every day.

When the federal system slows down, Wyoming’s spirit persists. We show up, feed a neighbor, lend a hand, and protect the land we call home.

That’s not politics. That’s Wyoming.