3rd parties seek inroads in Wyo. Legislature

Two new third parties have formed in Wyoming recently, fielding candidates for federal, state and even a few local races in next week's general election. State Election Director Peggy Nighswonger says she doesn't recall seeing this many new political parties since the 2000 election. Nighswonger says new third parties generally show up in presidential election years. The two new third parties on Wyoming's ballot this year are the Constitution and the Wyoming Country parties. They join the more established Libertarian Party. The Constitution Party is a national organization while the Wyoming Country Party is Wyoming-based. There are 10 third-party candidates competing for state legislative seats and a few local offices as well. University of Wyoming political science professor Jim King says creation of new parties generally reflects discontent with government.