JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — Conservationist and foundation executive Liz Storer from Jackson, announced that she is running for State House District 23, the seat held by Andy Schwartz-D. Schwartz announced he would not run for reelection in April.
“Andy’s service over the last eight years proves that a Democrat from Teton County can have a meaningful and positive impact in Cheyenne,” Storer said. “I would be humbled to follow in his footsteps.”
Storer will run as a Democrat. She cited many problems challenging Teton County are rooted in state policy and, therefore, need solutions at the state level.
“Rapidly increasing property taxes, growth pressure and the related housing crisis, and the state’s efforts to develop state trust lands within the county that have high wildlife values—all have their roots in the state’s current tax structure,” Storer said.
She also believes the state could do a better job of understanding local issues and providing greater flexibility. “As the state becomes more reliant on revenues from Teton County, our community should also have more of a say in our own destiny,” Storer added.
Storer is also keenly interested in finding climate change solutions by reducing carbon emissions. She would also address a strong education system, increasing access to quality healthcare, expanding broadband access, and affordable housing issues.
Liz background
For the past 12 years, Storer has served as president and CEO of the George B. Storer Foundation, which was founded by her grandfather and has provided grants in Wyoming and elsewhere for 66 years focused on education and conservation.
An avid angler, Liz first learned to fish on the Upper North Platte River near Saratoga, Wyoming where she later worked as a fishing guide. In 2019, the bipartisan national sportsmen’s group, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, recognized Liz with its annual Conservation Leadership Award.
Storer is also a recognized national leader for ensuring public access to public lands and in advocating for high quality outdoor early childhood education.
Storer has lived in Wyoming—including Cheyenne, and the rural communities of Saratoga and Ryan Park—for more than 30 years. She first stepped foot in the Wyoming Capitol in 1994 as an advocate for protecting Wyoming’s wildlife and water quality.
“I was brand new to the legislative process, but I learned quickly that I could build relationships with both Republicans and Democrats to accomplish our shared goals. I think that’s still possible.”
Liz lives in Jackson with her husband, Luther Propst, who serves as a Teton County Commissioner and their heeler-mix, Sophie. Together, they enjoy skiing, cycling, hiking and fishing in Wyoming’s great outdoors.
Storer will face West Yellowstone Democrat Ryan Sedgeley in the August primary. The winner will head to the November ballot against Republican Paul Vogelheim, of Jackson.
