In the month leading up to the 2024 general election, Wyoming residents were surveyed on a number of issues relevant to the population. The biennial survey of Wyoming residents is conducted by UW’s School of Politics, Public Affairs, and International Studies in partnership with the Wyoming Survey & Analysis Center. The questions focus on attitudes toward government, elected officials, candidates for office, and contemporary policy issues. Questions regarding the survey can be directed to WyOpinion@uwyo.edu.

Trump Maintains Strong Support in Wyoming, UW Survey Shows

UW Survey Finds Diverse Views on Abortion Rights and Guns

Wyoming Residents Have Mixed Views on National and State Economies, UW Survey Shows

UW Survey Find Disapproval of Federal Leadership, Mixed Reviews for State Officials

A topline report with methodological outline and complete survey results can be found at (https://wysac.uwyo.edu/wysac/reports/View/7735)

When it comes to state leadership, 41 percent of respondents approve of Gov. Mark Gordon’s performance, compared to 22 percent who disapprove (+19). U.S. Sen. John Barrasso receives a 42 percent approval rating, with 29 percent disapproving (+13), while U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis has a 30 percent approval rating and 25 percent disapproval (+5). In the U.S. House, Rep. Harriet Hageman enjoys higher approval, with 47 percent of Wyomingites expressing satisfaction with her work, while 27 percent disapprove (+20). These numbers include a “neither approve nor disapprove” option, which ranged from a low of 18 percent for Hageman to a high of 37 percent for Lummis.

The statewide survey was conducted Sept. 24-Oct. 27, yielding 739 responses from randomly selected Wyoming residents. The margin of error for the distribution of responses on any individual survey question is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points. Men and women from all age groups and all counties in Wyoming are proportionally represented in the survey data. The final survey data have been weighted to reflect the actual population distribution in Wyoming on gender, age, county of residence, party affiliation and education.

Looking at approval ratings only among those who expressed approval or disapproval, 66 percent of respondents approve of Gordon’s performance, while 34 percent disapprove. Approval ratings for other state leaders are 59 percent approval for Barrasso, 55 percent approval for Lummis and 63 percent approval for Hageman.

The Wyoming Legislature sees 32 percent of residents approving its work and 30 percent disapproving. The Wyoming judiciary garners a favorable view, with over 36 percent approving and around 12 percent disapproving. Looking only at those who expressed approval or disapproval, the Legislature has a 52 percent approval rating, with 48 percent disapproving, while the Wyoming judiciary has a significantly higher approval rating of 76 percent vs. 24 percent who disapprove.

“While federal leaders face discontent, Wyoming’s state officials receive largely favorable reviews, highlighting a preference for local governance,” says Ryan Williamson, an assistant professor of political science at UW. “Additionally, a significant trust gap exists between federal and state governments, with Wyomingites showing much greater confidence in their local leaders.”

In evaluating trust in the federal government, less than 1 percent of Wyomingites feel it can “just about always” be trusted to do what is right. Only 10 percent trust the federal government “most of the time,” while 51 percent believe it can be trusted “some of the time.” Notably, 38 percent of respondents express a severe lack of trust, feeling the federal government cannot ever be trusted to do the right thing.

In contrast, the state government in Cheyenne enjoys comparatively higher trust levels. When posed with the same question, 3 percent of residents believe the state government can almost always be trusted. A more significant portion, 36 percent, trust the state government “most of the time,” and 52 percent believe it can be trusted “some of the time.” Only 8 percent feel the state government can never be trusted to act correctly.

Biennial surveys of Wyoming residents are conducted by UW’s School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies in partnership with the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. The questions focus on attitudes toward government, elected officials, candidates for office and contemporary policy issues. Questions regarding the survey can be directed to WyOpinion@uwyo.edu.

A top-line report with methodological outline and complete survey results can be found at https://wysac.uwyo.edu/wysac/projects/weys24/.

A random sample of all cellular and land-line telephones was generated for the UW survey. Selected respondents were contacted via email, mail and phone to complete the survey, with 59 percent of responses on the web and the remaining 41 percent via live-interviewer telephone (92 percent cellular).

“This approach to the survey methodology gives every person in Wyoming with a phone an equal probability of selection for the survey,” says Brian Harnisch, director of the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. “Survey respondents accurately reflect the statewide population in terms of general demographic characteristics that include age, gender and county of residence, as well as other benchmarks such as party affiliation and educational attainment.”

The outlook for Wyoming’s economy is somewhat more positive, though still cautious. Just over half of the respondents, at 52 percent, believe that the state’s economy has worsened over the past year. Meanwhile, 12 percent report an improvement, and approximately 36 percent feel it has stayed the same.

The statewide survey was conducted Sept. 24-Oct. 27, yielding 739 responses from randomly selected Wyoming residents. The margin of error for the distribution of responses on any individual survey question is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points. Men and women from all age groups and all counties in Wyoming are proportionally represented in the survey data. The final survey data have been weighted to reflect the actual population distribution in Wyoming on gender, age, county of residence, party affiliation and education.

Looking ahead, optimism remains limited, as only 38 percent of respondents anticipate that the national economy will improve in the coming year. In contrast, 36 percent expect it will worsen, while 18 percent expect stability and 26 percent remain uncertain about future economic trends.

When looking at the future of Wyoming’s economy, sentiments are mixed: 27 percent expect economic conditions to improve in the next 12 months; 29 percent think it will worsen; and nearly 44 percent anticipate stability. Additionally, 22 percent of participants express uncertainty regarding the future state of the economy.

This data reflects the prevailing concerns and cautious optimism among Wyoming residents as they navigate current economic challenges and contemplate the future, says Ryan Williamson, an assistant professor of political science at UW.

“Economic pessimism prevails concerning the national landscape, yet cautious optimism is seen locally within Wyoming,” he says.

Economic Development Strategies

The survey findings reveal differing opinions among Wyoming residents about the best path forward for the state’s economic development.

According to the survey, 47 percent of Wyomingites feel that the state’s economy needs to be diversified. This perspective advocates for exploring new industries and technologies to create a balanced and resilient economic landscape.

Conversely, 54 percent of respondents support expanding traditional industries such as agriculture, coal production and tourism, emphasizing the importance of these sectors in maintaining economic stability and growth in Wyoming.

“Wyoming’s economic future is at a crossroads, with residents equally valuing innovation and the strength of traditional industries,” Williamson says.

Biennial surveys of Wyoming residents are conducted by UW’s School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies in partnership with the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. The questions focus on attitudes toward government, elected officials, candidates for office and contemporary policy issues. Questions regarding the survey can be directed to WyOpinion@uwyo.edu.

A top-line report with methodological outline and complete survey results can be found at https://wysac.uwyo.edu/wysac/projects/weys24/.

A random sample of all cellular and land-line telephones was generated for the UW survey. Selected respondents were contacted via email, mail and phone to complete the survey, with 59 percent of responses on the web and the remaining 41 percent via live-interviewer telephone (92 percent cellular).

“This approach to the survey methodology gives every person in Wyoming with a phone an equal probability of selection for the survey,” says Brian Harnisch, director of the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. “Survey respondents accurately reflect the statewide population in terms of general demographic characteristics that include age, gender and county of residence, as well as other benchmarks such as party affiliation and educational attainment.”

The survey indicates that 11 percent of Wyomingites believe abortion should never be permitted. Meanwhile, 31 percent support allowing abortion only in instances of rape, incest or when the mother’s life is at risk, highlighting a conditional approach to the issue.

Additionally, 20 percent feel that abortion should be permitted in situations beyond rape, incest and danger to the mother, provided the need has been clearly established. This perspective suggests a more situational approach, emphasizing careful consideration of circumstances.

Conversely, 39 percent of respondents uphold the belief that women should always have access to abortions as a matter of personal choice.

The statewide survey was conducted Sept. 24-Oct. 27, yielding 739 responses from randomly selected Wyoming residents. The margin of error for the distribution of responses on any individual survey question is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points. Men and women from all age groups and all counties in Wyoming are proportionally represented in the survey data. The final survey data have been weighted to reflect the actual population distribution in Wyoming on gender, age, county of residence, party affiliation and education.

Among self-identified Republicans, the most common response is that abortions only be allowed in instances of rape, incest or when the mother’s life is at risk, at 43 percent. The second most common response among Republicans is that abortion should always be allowed as a matter of personal choice, at 22 percent.

Preferences are much more consistent among self-identified Democrats, as 86 percent believe abortion should always be allowed as a matter of personal choice.

“Wyoming residents exhibit a wide spectrum of views on abortion rights, reflecting deeply nuanced and personal perspectives,” says Ryan Williamson, an assistant professor of political science at UW.

Gun Control Measures

The UW survey also sheds light on the diverse perspectives among Wyoming residents concerning gun control measures, reflecting both support and opposition to various proposals.

A notable 58 percent of Wyomingites support the idea of requiring firearm sales to be reported and recorded, while 28 percent oppose this measure. This suggests a majority who favor increased oversight in gun transactions.

When it comes to licensing requirements, 49 percent of respondents believe that requiring a license to purchase or possess firearms or ammunition is a good idea, compared to 39 percent who view it as unfavorable, indicating a division in opinion on adding regulatory steps to gun ownership.

On the topic of gun-free zones, 36 percent think eliminating these zones is beneficial, whereas 43 percent disagree, underscoring debates around safety and firearms accessibility in specific areas.
“Questions regarding gun control in Wyoming underscore a seeming desire to strike a balance between safety measures and protecting individual rights,” Williamson says.

Biennial surveys of Wyoming residents are conducted by UW’s School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies in partnership with the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. The questions focus on attitudes toward government, elected officials, candidates for office and contemporary policy issues. Questions regarding the survey can be directed to WyOpinion@uwyo.edu.

A top-line report with methodological outline and complete survey results can be found at https://wysac.uwyo.edu/wysac/projects/weys24/.

A random sample of all cellular and land-line telephones was generated for the UW survey. Selected respondents were contacted via email, mail and phone to complete the survey, with 59 percent of responses on the web and the remaining 41 percent via live-interviewer telephone (92 percent cellular).

“This approach to the survey methodology gives every person in Wyoming with a phone an equal probability of selection for the survey,” says Brian Harnisch, director of the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. “Survey respondents accurately reflect the statewide population in terms of general demographic characteristics that include age, gender and county of residence, as well as other benchmarks such as party affiliation and educational attainment.”

“Wyoming’s political landscape remains staunchly Republican, with a strong show of support for Donald Trump,” says Ryan Williamson, an assistant professor in UW’s School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies. “Our results indicate that almost 66 percent of Wyomingites plan to cast their ballots for Trump, reinforcing his continued popularity in the state.”

The statewide survey was conducted Sept. 24-Oct. 27, yielding 739 responses from randomly selected Wyoming residents. The margin of error for the distribution of responses on any individual survey question is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points. Men and women from all age groups and all counties in Wyoming are proportionally represented in the survey data. The final survey data have been weighted to reflect the actual population distribution in Wyoming on gender, age, county of residence, party affiliation and education.

In previous election cycles, Trump garnered significant support in Wyoming, securing 68 percent of the vote in 2016 and about 70 percent in 2020. This long-standing trend of Republican preference is expected to continue in the upcoming election.

Among self-identified Republicans in Wyoming, an overwhelming 91 percent remain steadfast in their support for Trump. Meanwhile, 5 percent have indicated their intention to vote for the Democratic candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris, with the remaining 4 percent opting for alternative candidates outside of the major parties.

Conversely, self-identified Democrats show near-unanimous support for Harris, with 98 percent backing her candidacy. Only 1 percent of Democrats surveyed plan to cast their vote for Trump, and an additional 1 percent favor other candidates.

Wyoming’s independents present a more divided picture: 41 percent plan to vote for Trump, while 47 percent intend to support Harris, and 12 percent are leaning toward candidates outside the traditional party lines.

“Our polling reveals that, despite strong partisan divides, independents in Wyoming have more varied electoral preferences,” Williamson says.

Vote Count Confidence

Meanwhile, more than 58 percent of Wyomingites believe that vote counts across the country will be very or somewhat reliable, according to the survey.

Confidence levels are even higher within the state, where 88 percent of residents trust that the vote count in Wyoming will be reliable. Matching this sentiment, 89 percent of respondents express similar confidence in the reliability of vote counts within their own counties.

“These findings highlight a community that values and trusts its democratic processes, with high confidence reported at both state and county levels,” Williamson says.

The survey reveals diverse opinions among Wyoming residents regarding voting by mail, reflecting preferences for both traditional and alternative voting methods.

The survey indicates that less than 1 percent of Wyomingites favor conducting elections entirely by mail. Meanwhile, 38 percent believe that citizens who wish to vote by mail should have the option to do so, highlighting an openness to flexible voting solutions.

Additionally, 45 percent of respondents support mail-in voting specifically for individuals with special needs that prevent them from voting in person, showcasing a desire to accommodate those requiring assistance.

Conversely, 16 percent of those surveyed advocate for maintaining all voting as an in-person activity, underscoring a significant preference for traditional voting practices.
“These findings highlight a balanced approach in Wyoming towards voting methods, with consideration for both traditional and accessible voting solutions,” Williamson says.

Concerns Over Political Violence

The survey reveals that a majority of Wyoming residents consider political violence a pressing issue, with 55 percent identifying it as a major problem. In contrast, 44 percent view it as a minor issue or not an issue at all.

The results further highlight that 78 percent of Wyomingites believe political violence is never acceptable. However, 22 percent of respondents consider political violence justifiable under certain circumstances, consistent with a growing pattern of such attitudes across the United States.

“As political tensions intensify, Wyomingites largely advocate for nonviolence,” Williamson says.

Varied Opinions on U.S. Involvement in Ukraine

The survey reveals diverse opinions among Wyoming residents regarding the extent of U.S. involvement in the Ukraine conflict.

“Nearly half of those surveyed advocate for comprehensive aid to Ukraine, paired with a cautious approach to avoid escalation,” Williamson says.

The survey indicates that 11 percent of respondents believe the United States should do whatever it takes to assist Ukraine, even at the risk of entering a direct war with Russia. This perspective underscores a commitment to supporting Ukraine despite potential escalations.

Meanwhile, 44 percent support providing comprehensive aid to Ukraine but emphasize caution to avoid risking a direct conflict with Russia. This view suggests a balanced approach that prioritizes strategic support without escalating tensions.

Conversely, 44 percent of Wyomingites believe the United States should not be involved in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia at all, highlighting a significant portion of the population favoring non-involvement and focusing on domestic issues.

Biennial surveys of Wyoming residents are conducted by UW’s School of Politics, Public Affairs and International Studies in partnership with the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. The questions focus on attitudes toward government, elected officials, candidates for office and contemporary policy issues. Questions regarding the survey can be directed to WyOpinion@uwyo.edu.

A top-line report with methodological outline and complete survey results can be found at https://wysac.uwyo.edu/wysac/projects/weys24/.

A random sample of all cellular and land-line telephones was generated for the UW survey. Selected respondents were contacted via email, mail and phone to complete the survey, with 59 percent of responses on the web and the remaining 41 percent via live-interviewer telephone (92 percent cellular).

“This approach to the survey methodology gives every person in Wyoming with a phone an equal probability of selection for the survey,” says Brian Harnisch, director of the Wyoming Survey and Analysis Center. “Survey respondents accurately reflect the statewide population in terms of general demographic characteristics that include age, gender and county of residence, as well as other benchmarks such as party affiliation and educational attainment.”

Through virtual workshops with stakeholders, we will co-create strategies to address critical service gaps, prioritize actions, and establish benchmarks for ongoing evaluation. The final strategy report will provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance Wyoming’s homelessness service system and align it with community values and needs.