Governor David D. Freudenthal
31st Governor of the State of Wyoming
Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal was sworn into office Jan. 6, 2003 and was re-elected in 2006. When he leaves office Jan. 4, 2011 he will have served the state for eight years as governor.
Governor Freudenthal has emphasized a collaborative approach to governing in Wyoming, fostering a positive working relationship with the Legislature and other elected officials. His pragmatic approach to government has resulted in realization of several projects which were also aided in their achievement by a period of increased revenues.
Governor Freudenthal had the foresight to cut state budgets and restrict hiring long before revenues fell. During his two terms, he has kept in mind that folks in Wyoming want a robust mineral economy and the jobs it brings, but also want to protect the open spaces and recreational opportunities Wyoming holds dear.
Governor Freudenthal worked with the legislature on projects which will transform the University of Wyoming into a world-class research center, benefitting the state's economy in a changing energy marketplace.
He has also worked throughout his term in office to support early childhood programs, realizing the payoff of spending on programs for the very young.
Gov Dave is a Wyoming native. He was born and raised on a farm on Owl Creek near Thermopolis. He graduated from Amherst College with a degree in Economics and served in the administration of Gov. Ed Herschler as an Economist and as State Planning Coordinator.
He then earned a law degree from the University of Wyoming and entered the private practice of law in Cheyenne.
In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton to become U.S. Attorney for Wyoming, a post he held for seven years.
Governor Freudenthal and his wife, Federal District Judge Nancy Freudenthal, have four children; Don, Hillary, Bret, and Katie. He enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, and woodworking.