Gary Crum Announces Run For Wyoming State Senate

A Laramie businessman and former University of Wyoming football star says he is running for the Wyoming Senate as a Republican.

Gary Crum says he is running as a Republican for Senate District 10. That seat is currently held by Republican Senator Dan Furphy, who is not running for re-election.

Crum calls Furphy a friend who has done a stellar job in the legislature.

Crum Cites Health Care, Property Rights Among His Top Concerns

In a news release, Crum says  “I will be a strong advocate for protecting our individual rights and property rights; working to ensure that these Constitutional rights are not infringed upon,” Crum said. “As well, I want to address escalating property taxes.”  Crum explains, “the state needs to lead the way towards developing a more solvent and efficient rural healthcare delivery system that keeps healthcare workers in our communities.”

In his campaign announcement, Crum cited his extensive business background in Laramie, which stretches back to 1986. Among other things, he served as President of First Interstate Bank in Laramie from 1996-1999. The release says he founded Wyoming State Bank, which later became Western States Bank, in his basement office in 2003. According to the release

''Gary successfully led the organization through a difficult banking environment beginning in 2008. One year later the Bank acquired Western Bank of Cheyenne. In 2016, he oversaw a merger with Valley Bank and Trust which included Western States Bank in Colorado. Gary was appointed by the board to remain the bank Chairman and CEO with headquarters staying in Laramie, Wyoming. Western States Bank has 13 offices in Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska. He oversaw the sale of the bank to First National Bank of Omaha in 2022.''

Crum has twice been named Laramie Business Person of the Year, according to the release

He's also been active in the Boy Scouts, at one point serving as a National Board member. He has been a board member and past Cowboy Joe Club president.

He played tackle for the Wyoming Cowboys and was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1982.