US presidential candidates Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton have launched their latest campaigns in Nevada, ahead of the key caucus vote on 20 February. The Democrats face an unusually important battle in the western state, with both candidates attempting to appeal to Hispanic and black voters.

Clinton, who was joined on stage by renowned civil rights campaigner Representative John Lewis, has had campaign staff in the state since April 2015.

She said, "Please go to caucus 11 o'clock on Saturday. Bring your friends, your neighbours, your family and I promise you, I promise you I will work my heart out every single day to make progress that are contrary to make us proud".

Nevada is traditionally a swing state in Presidential elections, and has voted for the eventual winner in every election since 1912, except 1976. It has a large Latino base, making up around 27% of the population.

Sanders said, "Everything in my political gut tells me that we have the momentum here in this state; that if people come out in large numbers on caucus days we're going to win here in Nevada".

Nationally, Clinton is way ahead of Sanders in polling with Latino and Hispanic voters. According to a Reuters/ Ipsos poll from 1 October to 12 February, 54% of Latinos who describe themselves as Democrats support Clinton, as opposed to 37% who back Sanders.

More about the US Election 2016
Bernie Sanders Hillary Clinton