USA Population Change (%/yr)
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Where is it? The location is the United States and it displays the current percentage change in population. The pattern that is present in the map is that many Northeaster states have seen the least amount of growth in their population (Ohio being the non-Northeastern state,) while many states that have seen dramatic increases. Western states, with Texas and Alaska, have seen the greatest growth. Overall, all states have seen an increase in their population.
Why is it there? The states that have seen the most dramatic increase are those states that also have the best economies. States such as South Dakota and Alaska, with their oil industries, and Texas with its low regulations have drawn a tremendous amont of people looking for employment. While those states that have decreased their population are those that have seen a change in their industries. States like Ohio have seen a dramatic growth in unemployment as US industries continue to fail.
What difference does it make. As states in the west continue to grow in population so to will their political power and influence. With this there will be a greater emphasis placed on creating public policy that aids these regions. Additionally, those states that do grow in the west will require more resources that they lack, particularly water. As more population moves in the environment will endure more strain. While Alaska has been free of population growth for a long time, leaving much of the environment in its "original" or "natural" state, as more people move in more of this land will be changed from this state. Lastly, states that are growing slower in population, like the Northeast, will see their influence decrease. These regions have experienced a long history of unending growth in population, and with it political influence. These states will need to adjust to the new changing reality.