In rural America, particularly in places like Niobrara County, Wyoming, Democrats are facing extinction. With only 32 registered Democrats in the least populated county in the least populated state, Republican dominance is overwhelming. The passing of a law making it difficult to change party affiliation has only further solidified the Republican hold on the state. Despite being outnumbered, Becky Blackburn, one of the few Democrats in Niobrara County, remains politically active, advocating for policing reform and LGBTQ+ rights.
The struggle of Democrats in Wyoming is reflective of the party’s diminishing presence in rural areas across the country. Many Democrats have resorted to switching their registration to vote in more competitive Republican primaries, then changing back for the general election. The recent law in Wyoming banning party switching has further limited Democratic participation in the political process.
In Niobrara County, known for its strong Republican presence, no Democrats are running for major political positions in the upcoming elections. However, there are instances of former Democrats who held office in the past, like Ross Diercks, a former state representative. The new law preventing party switching has left Diercks and others frustrated with the Republican Party’s efforts to restrict voter participation.
Despite the challenges faced by Democrats in these rural areas, individuals like Blackburn, Diercks, and others continue to hold on to their political beliefs and fight for their representation, even in the face of isolation and political marginalization.
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