The money generated from getting presidential candidates to hire campaign staffs, buy advertising and travel in the state should "more than offset the small cost," Valentine said, based on New Mexico's experience in 2004.

New Mexico was up for grabs in that election and the presidential candidates made a total of 50 visits to the state. Huntsman said the economic impact of the New Mexico Democratic caucus was between $30 million and $50 million.

Utah, traditionally a Republican state, could see similar interest from the GOP in 2008. With Vice President Dick Cheney not expected to run, there should be plenty of challengers for the GOP presidential nomination.

Utah Democratic Party Chairman Wayne Holland said the state's minority party would get a boost from a primary as well.

"I see a lot of enthusiasm from party activists for having something that looks like a real, live presidential battle here," Holland said.

This isn't the first time a Western states presidential primary has been suggested. Two former governors, Mike Leavitt of Utah and Roy Romer of Colorado, tried with limited success to organize the Western states.

In 2000, Utah spent about $700,000 to participate in a regional primary along with Colorado and Wyoming Republicans. That election ended up being held after Super Tuesday had decided the national candidates.

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