Former dean who clashed with UW president running for legislature

A retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and University of Wyoming engineering professor whose clash with some UW leadership exploded into the news cycle last year is running for a seat in the state Legislature. Cameron Wright, 70, on Monday announced his bid for the Republican nomination for the Laramie-based Wyoming House District 46, where he will face House Majority Whip Ocean Andrew.

Wright made headlines last year when he clashed publicly with UW President Ed Seidel and others over whether UW leadership could send state money earmarked for the UW College of Engineering and Physical Sciences into a spinoff computing school – which Seidel’s romantic partner was then leading. Wright was dean of the engineering college when the controversy began. He asserted that the money could not be used that way and refused to divert it. Two state lawmakers wrote to the governor, warning that Wright could suffer retaliation. Months later, Wright was demoted from his post and filed a legal challenge accusing UW of retaliation.

Wright told Cowboy State Daily that his struggle with UW leadership didn’t drive his desire to run, but it made him noticed by people. “It made me get noticed by people, since I was willing to stand up for integrity, risk my job for integrity,” he said. “I think that’s what drove them, to ask me to run for the Legislature.” Multiple people approached him, and he considered the prospect. He was already planning to retire at the end of this academic year in August.

His campaign announcement says he believes Wyoming is at a turning point. “We need leaders who understand the challenges we face and are ready to do the work,” the statement reads. “I’ve spent my career solving problems, leading teams, and serving this country and this state. I’m running to bring that same focus and accountability to the legislature.”

Wright served for 30 years in the U.S. military, both enlisted and as an officer, in the Navy and the Air Force. He’s lived in Albany County for more than 23 years. He told Cowboy State Daily he’s been a Republican all his life and won’t be a member of the Wyoming Freedom Caucus or any caucus. His priorities include keeping Wyoming lands accessible and protected, building an economy where families can stay, strengthening core industries, supporting strong schools, and defending constitutional rights.

Wright said he differs from Andrew in that he has “a lot of experience over the years representing different kinds of teams, and getting things done, and making decisions and advocating for various things.” He added, “I think he’s not made a lot of people happy, and they want me to be their advocate.” Andrew welcomed Wright to the race, saying it’s good for people to have options. Andrew has held his seat since 2021, became House Majority Whip in 2025, chairs the House Education Committee, and has been an ardent school-choice advocate.