During a recent government meeting in Casper, Father Philip Basky, a local Catholic priest and chaplain, addressed the council regarding the declining population in Wyoming and its broader implications. He highlighted that the state's birth rate stands at 1.3 children per woman, significantly below the replacement level of 2.3. This demographic trend, he argued, is influenced by various factors, including abortion, and poses economic challenges not only for Wyoming but also for the nation as a whole.

Father Basky emphasized the importance of community self-sufficiency and warned that a shrinking population could adversely affect economic stability and the fundamental rights of citizens, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. His remarks reflect growing concerns among community leaders about the long-term impacts of demographic shifts on local economies and social structures.

The meeting also featured contributions from local advocates, including Cross Troop, who expressed his commitment to community engagement and support for those affected by these issues. The discussions underscored a collective recognition of the need for proactive measures to address the challenges posed by declining population trends in Wyoming.