Meet Your Candidates: Converse County Commissioner Special Series
When you live in Wyoming, local government isn’t some distant entity — it’s your neighbors, your local business owners, and the people you see at the grocery store. As part of our commitment to keeping our community rooted and informed, Converse County Home is launching a special political series to help you get to know the candidates running for local office before you cast your ballot.
In this first episode of our Candidate Series, I sat down with three candidates running for Converse County Commissioner: Joe Benedetta, Mark Horr, and Trent Kaufman. We discussed everything from county road maintenance and budget transparency to economic growth and protecting our rural Code of the West values.
Watch the complete video podcast below to hear directly from Joe, Mark, and Trent in their own words:
Candidate Interview Disclaimer
Converse County Home is a community website and podcast dedicated to sharing the stories of the people who make Converse County a great place to call home. As part of that mission, I have invited every candidate appearing on the 2026 local ballot, as well as candidates from Converse County seeking state office, to participate in this series.
Each candidate has been offered the same opportunity, asked the same core questions, and given the same amount of time to share their background, priorities, and vision in a relaxed, long-form conversation.
The views and opinions expressed during this interview are those of the candidate and do not necessarily reflect my personal views or those of Converse County Home, Johnston Realty, or any sponsors of this podcast.
This is not a debate, an endorsement, or a campaign advertisement. My goal is simply to help voters get to know the people asking to serve our community so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box.
Jump Ahead: Interview Timestamps & Candidate Breakdown
While I strongly encourage taking the time to listen to all three candidates—each brings a unique perspective on the future of Converse County, and understanding every angle helps us make the best decision as a community—I know we’re all balancing busy schedules!
This is a deep-dive, long-form conversation, so if you are pressed for time or looking to jump directly to a specific candidate’s interview or you need to break it up, use the timestamps below to navigate the video:
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0:00 – Introduction & Why Local Elections Matter
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01:22 – Joe Benedetta (Candidate Interview)
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33:07 – Mark Horr (Candidate Interview)
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48:36 – Trent Kaufman (Candidate Interview)
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8 Essential Facts About Voting in Converse County
- County Commission Seats: Voters elect commissioners at-large to represent the entirety of Converse County.
Primary Election Date: Mark your calendar for the Wyoming Primary Election on Tuesday, August 18, 2026.
Key Responsibilities: Commissioners oversee county roads, county budgets, emergency services, and land use planning.
Seats up for Election: There are 3 seats up for election this term.
- Other Candidates: There are other candidates, that are running that may not have responded, or may have not been able to fit into our schedule, or any other reason. Don’t draw any conclusions based on them not appearing.
Absentee Voting: Absentee ballots can be requested through the County Clerk’s office prior to election day.
Local Impact on Real Estate: Commission decisions on zoning, road paving, and county services directly affect local property values.
Stay Informed: Do your research and form your own opinions.
Let’s Chat Real Estate (And Diet Coke)
Understanding local politics is just one piece of being a great neighbor and homeowner. Whether you have questions about how county decisions affect your land values, or you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Douglas, Glenrock, or Rolling Hills, I’m always here to help.
Send me a text today—I’d love to grab a Diet Coke, talk real estate, and help you navigate your next move in Converse County!
If you or someone you know have some good Converse County Stories, let me know!
