Overview
Matthew Hansen "Matt" Mead (born March 11, 1962) is an American attorney and Republican politician who served as the 32nd Governor of Wyoming from 2011 to 2019. His two-term administration emphasized energy development, fiscal management, education funding and state services. Mead remains a prominent figure in Wyoming public life and law.
Early life and legal career
Mead was born and raised in Teton County, Teton County, and has deep family and professional ties across the state. Trained as a lawyer, he worked in private practice and later served in federal roles, including as a United States Attorney for the District of Wyoming. His legal background shaped his approach to executive office, particularly on issues involving regulation, public safety and natural resources.
Path to the governor's office
Mead won the 2010 gubernatorial election and took office in early 2011. In that race he defeated Democratic nominee Leslie Petersen and ran as a Republican focused on steady management of Wyoming's resource-based economy. He was re-elected and served two full terms, leaving office in 2019. For campaign information and official materials from his time in office, see his public profiles and archived pages (profile, campaign site).
Record and priorities as governor
During his administration Mead confronted the challenges of fluctuating energy markets, state budget pressures and demands for education and infrastructure investment. His policies generally favored responsible development of fossil fuels and other natural resources while seeking to maintain a conservative fiscal stance. He also worked on workforce issues and state-level responses to federal regulations affecting western states.
Political stance and legacy
Mead was viewed as a mainstream Republican governor in a predominantly conservative state. Observers note his pragmatic management style and emphasis on continuity in state government. His tenure is often discussed in the context of Wyoming's ongoing efforts to diversify its economy beyond energy extraction and to maintain services despite revenue volatility.
Personal life
Mead is married to Carol L. Mintzer and they have two children. He continues to be active in civic and legal circles in Wyoming and appears in profiles and interviews offering perspective on state policy and public affairs (Wyoming coverage).
- Born: March 11, 1962
- Office: Governor of Wyoming, 2011–2019
- Profession: Attorney, public official