DENVER -- New data was presented by the Western Majority Project Monday as evidence to support the Democratic Party's assertion that Democrats are positioned for big electoral gains in the Rocky Mountain West.

The presentation, entitled "Democratic Realignment in the Mountain West," was delivered by Andrew Meyers, who conducted the research on behalf of Project New West. It showed shifts in attitudes and demographics in western states, particularly in Arizona, that should be favorable for Democratic candidates.  

Meyers spoke about how majorities in mountain west states - 59 percent in Arizona - believe "tougher environmental regulations are worth the costs." Environmental protection is an issue that has traditionally been identified with Democrats.

Arizona is the fastest growing state, and growth in the Hispanic population was sited as being a  particularly hopeful sign for Democrats in Arizona.

"The Hispanic population is skyrocketing," said Meyers. "From a Democratic operative perspective, that should increase our vote."

Meyers claimed the perception that Sen. Barack Obama is weak among Hispanic voters is a "myth."

"Obama is absolutely dominating" among Hispanics, said Meyers. "The myth about Latinos not supporting Obama is simply a myth."

According to Project New West's numbers, Hispanics in Arizona support Sen. Obama over Arizona Sen. John McCain by a 32 point margin, 58 to 26. However, the poll, conducted among likely Hispanic voters, showed Obama much weaker in that demographic in Arizona than in other western states. The Illinois senator leads by an average of 39 points in the Rocky Mountain west, with his largest advantage in Colorado, where Meyers's numbers show Obama up 69 to 23 among Hispanics - a 46 point lead.