Women in the Equality State today have a long way to go to reach the 30% “tipping point” experts say is necessary to effectively address gender issues in campaigns and in politics. Women represent just 18% of the Wyoming State Legislature and 20% of elected state officials. That’s why the bipartisan members of the Wyoming Women’s Legislative Caucus (WyWLC) have identified four priorities:
- Regular Gatherings
- Speaker’s Bureau
- Candidate Development
- Intern/Aide Program
To achieve these goals, members of the Caucus participate in gatherings and workshops. To encourage Wyoming women to run for office, the Caucus hosts an annual Leap into Leadership event for Wyoming women at the State Legislature in February and has provided scholarships to Wyoming women to attend the White House Project’s Go Run Political Leadership Training.
“We know that diverse voices are essential to achieving balanced solutions that serve everyone in our state,” said Representative Cathy Connolly, WyWLC Vice-Chair. “It is our hope that the efforts of the WyWLC will continue to encourage Wyoming women to be part of the conversation and take on leadership roles for many years to come.”
Wyoming Women’s Legislative Caucus 2022 Co-Chairs
Senator Affie Ellis
Ellis was elected to the Wyoming Legislature in 2017 representing Senate District 8 in Laramie County. Serving on many committees throughout her term, Ellis currently chairs the Senate Travel, Recreation, Wildlife & Cultural Resources Committee and the Select Committee on Tribal Relations.
Representative Cathy Connolly
Connolly was elected to the Wyoming Legislature in 2009 representing House District 13 in Albany County. Serving on many committees throughout her terms, currently, Rep. Connolly serves as the House Minority Floor Leader.
Representative Sue Wilson
Wilson was elected to the Wyoming Legislature in 2013 representing House District 7 in Laramie County. Serving on many committees, currently, Rep. Wilson chairs the House, Labor & Social Services Committee.