In 2002 Wyoming elected a Democratic governor, Dave Freudenthal, who was re-elected in 2006.

ECONOMIST: Purple Colorado: Rocky mountain coming down | The

Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal had been critical of fellow Democrats Clinton and Obama for not paying more attention to the West.

NPR: Obama Wins Democratic Caucuses in Wyoming

"People understand that instead of it being kind of a ceremonial act to go to a caucus, it now matters, " Freudenthal said.

NPR: Obama Wins Democratic Caucuses in Wyoming

Governor Dave Freudenthal, the governor of Wyoming, announced for Barack Obama.

NPR: Political Junkie: Three Weeks to Pennsylvania

But with such a close national race and visits to Wyoming by the candidates on the eve of the caucuses, Freudenthal conceded that a lot of interest was generated.

NPR: Obama Wins Democratic Caucuses in Wyoming