United States of America

Barlow Beats Trump's Pick in Wyoming Governor GOP Primary

Is Trump's endorsement power finally cracking or does his high win rate prove he still dominates GOP politics?

Published 21 hours ago

Barlow Beats Trump's Pick in Wyoming Governor GOP Primary

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Above: The Wyoming state capitol building in Cheyenne. Image credit: Don and Melinda Crawford/UCG/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

The Spin

Anti-Trump narrative

Trump's endorsement power is cracking. In addition to Degenfelder's loss, GOP primary voters in Florida rejected two of Trump's House picks. MAGA's grip on the Republican base is slipping and that spells serious trouble heading into the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential primaries. When your own party starts tuning you out, that's a warning sign.

Amanda Litman on X

Josh Williams Photography on X

Pro-Trump narrative

Even with a few losses, Trump's successful endorsement rate sits at an amazing 96.6%. Cherry-picking rare defeats to declare a collapse is just bad math. The 2026 cycle is still mostly primaries, with barely any general elections counted yet, making the success rate even more remarkable. That kind of track record shows dominance.

Maximus Knight on X

David Pollack on X

Republican narrative

Regardless of who endorsed him, Barlow will serve Wyoming well as governor. He's a Marine, veterinarian, rancher and great family man. His leadership abilities have been on display for a while and the GOP has picked someone who will maintain the party's values throughout his term.

Cynthia Lummis on X Republican Governors Association