Republican candidate Ron Micheli greets supporters in Lyman prior to his official candidacy announcement last week. A large, boisterous crowd responded with whistles, claps and cheers to Micheli's announcement at the Lyman High School commons. Emotional and sometimes with his voice cracking, Micheli said he wanted his official announcement to be made in his home because of his love and respect for the Valley and its residents. GAZETTE PHOTO/Virginia Giogis

Ron Micheli of Fort Bridger weighs in conservative values, the 10th amendment and his experiences in state government

Southwest Wyoming has its own candidate for Wyoming governor this year, Ron Micheli of Fort Bridger.

Micheli announced his intentions last fall. As the political scene heats up statewide, Micheli stopped in Evanston to campaign and fundraise among loyal Republicans.

Micheli also agreed to sit down with former Gazette and current Uinta County Herald editor Erin Buller for a one-on-one interview.

Q: You spent 16 years (from 1979 to 1992) in the Wyoming House of Representatives and eight years (1995-2003) as the director of the Wyoming Department of Agriculture. How do you think that experience will help you in the role of governor?

A: I've been in the private sector for 40 years, and I believe small business is the backbone of our economy. When I was 28 years old, I was elected to the legislature. With my legislative experience, I influenced the passage of laws and how that affects our state. Then when governor Jim Geringer asked me to be a part of his cabinet.

We packed up and did something we never thought we'd do. We left the Valley and lived in Cheyenne for eight years. With my executive branch experience, I know how state government runs. I know that state employees are the most important state resource out there. I think it's important to know the executive branch of government as governor.

Q: You've been out of politics since 2003. What makes you want to get back into it all now?

A: My concern for the direction our country is going, and my love for our state. I also have a desire to give back because of the wonderful opportunities I've been given.

I am running for governor. I've been told I should take two aspirin, go to bed and sleep it off, but we're way past that now."



For the complete article see the 02-04-2010 issue.

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