Howie Samelson running for House District 28 seat

Democrat Howard "Howie" Samelson is running against Republican Nathan Winters for Wyoming State Representative for House District 28.

Samelson said the most important issues for his campaign are individual freedoms, public lands staying public, local institutions being locally managed and developing economic diversification - meaning figuring out what the state can do to get away from fossil fuels.

"We need to develop alternatives in the state for economic development, which include things like tourism and more arts and cultural," he said.

Samelson said he also supports the right to keep and bear arms, and encourages all parties involved with the county's struggle to end gun violence to begin a legitimate and constructive dialogue on methods by which we can protect our safety and one's individual rights.

"Yes, I support gun rights," he said. "But I would like to create a dialogue that addresses gun violence."

Samelson moved to Thermopolis two years ago with his wife, Suzanne.

Though Samelson is new to politics, he is not new to serving the community. He is the President of the Hot Springs County Greater Learning Foundation, on the Main Street Thermopolis Board, a member of the "Yes for our Hospital" committee, a member of the Gift of the Waters Pageant Committee, a member of the Smoking Waters Art Guild and on The Discovery Center Joint Powers Board. He was also on the platform committee at the Wyoming Democratic Convention.

"What has really pushed me to become active politically, is that I believe there should always be a dialogue and a choice for people," he said. "I want to create those two opportunities for the people in this district."

Samelson said he wants to make change in this district.

"I want to make a difference in the way the district is represented," he said. "I feel that a representative should represent constituents, not his own beliefs. It's that representation of the people that I believe in. If this district is looking for something specific, that's what I've got to do."

Samelson said he wants to get to know the constituents better.

"I want to get to know the constituents better and what's most important for them so that I can bring those issues forward," Samelson said.