"The Northwest is in better shape than it was eight years ago"

This quote by Bruce Babbitt is describing the state of the Northwest region of the United States. Babbitt is suggesting that the area remains in a better condition than it was eight years back. This could be referring to a range of aspects, such as the economy, facilities, or lifestyle. It is likely that Babbitt is referring to the overall enhancement of the area, as opposed to any one particular location. This might mean that the economy has actually enhanced, facilities has actually been upgraded, and the lifestyle has increased. It might also indicate that the region has become more eco-friendly, with more green efforts and renewable energy sources being carried out. Whatever the case, it is clear that the Northwest area has actually seen a general enhancement in the past eight years.