Dave Dodson visits Thermopolis

Among the candidates on the ballot for U.S. Senate is Republican Dave Dodson who recently visited Thermopolis and participated in the Pageant Days Parade.

Dodson grew up about 35 miles south of Cheyenne in a farming and ranching area. His father was in the sugar beet business and his mom was a schoolteacher. He earned degrees in Business and Economics, and while in college one of the jobs he had was at a slaughterhouse.

He later became involved in the oil and gas business before going into business for himself with a trucking, auto parts and telecommunications company.

“I never thought I would run for office,” Dodson said, but he was inspired by Donald Trumps rise from the private sector into public service. “I thought that was an inspiration for a lot of us who have private sector experience to think about raising their hands and helping our country and community.”

Wyoming is abundant in natural resources but in last place economically, he said, but what concerns him more is the state the worst in the country for children having to leave towns to find work, which puts all communities at risk.

As for what he can bring to the office, Dodson said his experience in the private sector would be of benefit and he’s one of only two or three senators who understand the tax code. He noted people from the private sector know how to work with others, whereas career politicians “have become just really good at yelling at each other.”