Use of Bucking Horse and Rider, UW Trademarks/Landmarks Prohibited in Political Campaigns

Candidates for political office in Wyoming and elsewhere are reminded that the state's bucking horse and rider mark may not be used in political campaigns or on campaign materials, social media and websites.

Additionally, the University of Wyoming's name, trademarks, logos, official seals, licensed music, buildings, statues or landmarks may not be used for political campaign purposes.

The reminder comes as many Wyomingites announce their intent to run for office and the May 14-29 filing period approaches.

Wyoming state government -- which has a long-standing agreement with the university in managing the bucking horse and rider mark -- has a regulation prohibiting its use for political campaigns. The prohibition is noted in the state's rules governing the use of the bucking horse and rider mark here and on page 10 of the 2026 campaign guide here.

UW's Board of Trustees recently approved a motion for the university to fully enforce the regulation regarding the bucking horse and rider mark. Additionally, the board directed the university to enforce the prohibition on political campaign use of UW's name, trademarks, logos, official seals, licensed music, buildings, statues or landmarks.

Excluded from the prohibition is the incidental use of UW's trademark brown and gold colors by political campaigns. And, for example, a candidate appearing in a campaign photo clad in UW clothing or with a bucking horse and rider logo would be a violation. But, if a photo includes a candidate interacting with a person wearing such clothing, it would not be a violation.

"Our hope is that we are providing a helpful reminder to candidates at every level across the state. While we appreciate all supporters and Pokes fans, use of trademarks/facilities for campaign purposes is limited," UW President Ed Seidel says. "We respect everyone who exercises their right to participate in our government by running for office and just want to remind candidates what is or isn't allowed as it relates to the state's bucking horse and rider logo or university trademarks. This ensures that the state's valuable and iconic brands are not infringed and that no inference can be made that UW supports any particular candidate."

UW's Trademark Licensing Office has frequently asked questions and answers on its website to which political campaigns may refer.