Wyoming official faces backlash after posting ‘hang bad judges’ comment on abortion ruling – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Powell, Wyoming – A local city councilman drew widespread condemnation after posting a comment that called for hanging judges in response to a court decision blocking the state’s six-week abortion ban. Troy Bray, a Powell City Council member, made the remark on Facebook amid heated debates over abortion restrictions. The statement quickly amplified concerns about inflammatory rhetoric from elected officials.[1][2]
The Post That Sparked Outrage
Troy Bray responded to a social media update about a recent judicial ruling. State Rep. Mike Yin, a Democrat, had shared a Wyoming Public Radio post detailing the decision. Yin argued that the legislature should respect constitutional rights to healthcare choices and that change comes through the ballot box.[1]
Bray’s reply cut sharply: “In order for Wyoming to find justice, we will have to hang bad judges.” Users immediately pushed back, labeling the words dangerous and unfit for someone in public office. Critics highlighted the gravity of such language, especially from an elected leader, amid national tensions over judicial decisions.[1][2]
Background on the Abortion Ban Challenge
The controversy stemmed from a ruling by Natrona County District Judge Dan Forgey. He granted temporary injunctive relief against Wyoming’s Human Heartbeat Act, a law signed by Republican Gov. Mark Gordon in March. The measure prohibits most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, typically around six weeks of pregnancy.[1][3]
Forgey found that plaintiffs showed sufficient irreparable injury and likelihood of success under the Wyoming Constitution’s healthcare rights provision. The order halts enforcement while lawsuits proceed, allowing clinics to resume services. This marked another chapter in ongoing legal battles over the state’s abortion restrictions.[4]
Bray Clarifies His Stance
Bray addressed the uproar in a detailed Facebook response. He insisted the comment reflected his personal beliefs and was not a threat or incitement. “That is a statement of my beliefs, NOT a threat, as some have characterized it, nor is it a call for others to act,” he wrote.[1]
He lambasted the judicial system as broken, claiming judges overstep their roles and courts favor those with resources. Bray described barriers like the need for specialized lawyers and frivolous suits that bankrupt opponents. Though he vowed to pursue “every peaceful means,” phrases like “by any means necessary” fueled further scrutiny. Fox News sought additional comment from Bray but received none immediately.[2]
Reactions and Implications
Online backlash dominated the conversation, with many decrying the post’s violent tone. Supporters of abortion restrictions and opponents alike questioned its appropriateness. The incident underscored divisions in Wyoming over abortion policy and the judiciary’s role.[1]
As legal fights continue, Bray’s words serve as a flashpoint. Local officials have weighed in on similar issues before, but this episode highlights risks of heated public statements. The temporary block persists, with a hearing set for later review.
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