A Clear Message: Why I Am Running for the Wyoming Legislature

When the Heat — and Life — Get in the Way

The past few weeks have been sweltering, and my Boston Terrier, Migo, does not handle the heat well. Between campaigning, events, and door‑to‑door conversations, I let the weather — and my own busyness — become excuses for skipping his walks.

Yesterday morning, as I rushed around getting ready to leave the house, Migo sent me a message I couldn’t ignore. He stood at the front door, staring at his leash, making it perfectly clear what he needed. Before the day grew too hot, off we went.

That small moment stuck with me. It reminded me how powerful a clear message can be — how it cuts through noise, excuses, and distractions.

This week, at the Sheridan County GOP legislative candidate debate, each of us was asked to explain why we are running for office. It was the perfect moment to send a clear message of my own.

My Introduction at the Debate

I’m Susan Bigelow, and I’m running for the Legislature. Many of you have heard me joke about being a rocket scientist, which I was – kind of. I worked in national defense and managed an engineering group on the Peacekeeper Rail Garrison Development Program – even held a Top Secret Clearance. But that is not why I am running. Jobs, jobs, jobs and housing. That is why I am running.

I believe Wyoming’s next generation deserves us to be good stewards, to retain what is good about Wyoming, to retain the savings that the minerals industry has helped us build, to respect the tax structure that brought us to this enviable position. I believe we should be investing today for Wyoming’s future, investing in good public education that creates workforce skills, investing in economic growth and diversification that provides good paying jobs, and investing in solutions to our housing needs so young people will be prepared to work in Wyoming industries and can afford to live in Wyoming.

I have lived and worked in Wyoming for 30 years, investing in economic growth, working to expand technical training, and focusing on an even brighter future for the next generations. Jobs and a good economic future. That is why I am running to represent Big Horn, Powder Horn, Sheridan, Ranchester and Dayton in Cheyenne.

Finding Clarity in the Everyday

When I finished giving that introduction at the debate, I felt the same clarity that Migo showed me at the front door. I know exactly why I’m running and what I want to focus on. For thirty years, I’ve worked to strengthen Wyoming’s economy, expand technical training, and help build a future where young people can stay, work, and thrive here.

Just as Migo reminded me not to ignore what matters, this campaign reminds me daily why I’m doing this work. Jobs, housing, and a strong economic future aren’t slogans to me — they’re commitments I’ve carried throughout my career and continue to carry now.

I’m grateful for the chance to share that message clearly, and I’m grateful for everyone who takes the time to listen, ask questions, and engage in shaping Wyoming’s future.