Western States Becoming More Urban, Democratic

Democratic strategists say western states are becoming more urban and diverse, with an influx of Hispanics, Asian and young voters who favor Democratic presidential candidates.

Democratic political leaders from Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and other western states gathered in Las Vegas Monday at the Project New West conference to discuss how they can win the 2012 elections.

Brookings Mountain West Director Robert Lang told conference attendees that the majority of people in Arizona and Nevada live in Phoenix or Las Vegas. He said that trend could hurt Republican candidates as the West becomes more urban.

Former Bill Clinton adviser Maria Echaveste says Hispanic populations are booming in western states, but some candidates don't understand how to reach those voters.

She says the majority of Hispanics speak English, not Spanish.

Associated Press