Gov. Gordon: “Wyoming Is On A Roll” Despite Federal Policies

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon sounded an optimistic note in his ''State of the State" address to Wyoming lawmakers on Monday, although he was sharply critical of federal energy policies and the situation along the Mexican border.

''Let me begin by reporting to you that Wyoming is as strong as it has ever been'' Gordon told a joint legislative session. ''Our economy is growing our spirits are soaring, and our future is ours to craft.'' He said that new businesses are looking to move to Wyoming and existing businesses and planning to expand. He said unemployment is the lowest it's been in 15 years, and wages are growing.

''I can proudly say that Wyoming is on a roll" Gordon said. He said that is despite a federal government that takes the attitude that ''We know best' and obstructs Wyoming's core industries. He called Biden's energy policies limiting domestic energy production "warped and misguided."

The Republican said the policies have raised prices for electricity, gas, and heating costs and have left America more vulnerable to foreign adversaries. But he said Wyoming 'is not timid" about fighting Biden's energy policies. noting the state currently has 39 court lawsuits over various energy policies pending in court.

He called the Biden energy policies ''bovine scatology."

At another point in his speech, the governor called federal border policy "asinine" and said that even though Wyoming may be far removed from the Mexican border, the Cowboy State is still feeling the impacts because "we are all border states now." He called illegal immigration "our nation's greatest threat."

He praised Texas Governor Greg Abbot for trying to stem the flow of illegal immigration.

In terms of the legislative budget session that gets underway today, the governor urged lawmakers to approve his proposed budget, calling it "a conservative and balanced budget." He said his proposed budget keeps 2021 general fund levels "flat."

The governor also spoke about property tax reform, saying he was encouraged by the approach taken in House Bill 45.  He said last year's budget included $9 million in property tax relief and this year's budget proposes expanding that amount to $20 million.

The budget session is slated to run through March 9.