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Democratic debate: Sanders and Clinton spar on NSA, race and more – live Democratic debate: Clinton remains in command as Sanders stumbles on guns – as it happened
(2 months later)
3.37am BST03:37 12.59am ET05:59
Was did Biden think of it?
If a debate kept @vp out, he was never going to run. One debate, good or bad, for established candidates is nothing. https://t.co/dc39vj5p8H
#DemDebate pic.twitter.com/f4iTWX6obI
12.55am ET05:55
The NRA was active on Twitter tonight.
“I proudly hold an F rating.” - @MartinOMalley. And we were happy to give it to you. You earned it. #demdebate
Only in a #demdebate for president does fighting for the #Constitution make you an "enemy" #2A
12.50am ET05:50
Some reaction from Las Vegas --
Good piece by @RalstonReports on the debate tonight http://t.co/vLnSalkW3X
So that was fun to watch Hillary Clinton do debate prep at The Wynn on Tuesday evening with those four other people.
But, seriously …
I have watched a lot of debates, and rarely has one person stood out so dominantly as the former secretary of state did against Bernie Sanders (he won’t lose his base but did nothing to expand it), Martin O’Malley (solid close but did little else to break out of obscurity), Jim Webb (he complained about not speaking enough) and Lincoln Chafee (was he lost?).
Read the full piece here.
12.35am ET05:35
Clinton’s opening statement in the debates is already a Clinton campaign video:
“Finally, fathers will be able to say to their daughters: you too can grow up to be president.” #DemDebate https://t.co/pan4VXnmgT
She convinced at least one voter
I'm proud of @HillaryClinton. Tonight, she showed why she should be President.
Updated at 5.59am ET
12.23am ET05:23
And now a cool Twitter comparison of mentions of Clinton and Sanders:
The Twitter team passes on the “Top debate moments on Twitter”:
Updated at 12.24am ET
12.20am ET05:20
A fascinating graphic by Google Trends on minute-by-minute search interest in the candidates.
Sanders stays at Number One, Clinton hangs mostly in the Number Two slot.
How many people have to Google Hillary Clinton, though...
How the #DemDebate changed ranks tonight, minute by minute http://t.co/eoamxu82rr pic.twitter.com/77mHK4LFPk
Here’s Google tracking the issues people were searching during the debate:
#healthcare, #guncontrol, #cannabisdebate… how the big issues stacked up in search tonight http://t.co/eoamxu82rr pic.twitter.com/4F2BGGNv58
Updated at 12.21am ET
12.15am ET05:15
Summary
The Democrats have finished their first debate of the 2016 election and here’s a summary of where things stand:
Read a full transcript here. That’s it for us tonight. Thank you for reading, watching and commenting, and for inviting us to your party. See you in Boulder, Colorado, on 28 October, for the return of the Republicans ...
11.58pm ET04:58
Lucia Graves
From National Journal reporter and Guardian US contributor Lucia Graves:
Bernie Sanders spokesman Michael Briggs has been blasting out emails all night, fact-checking his opponents. Some subjects include: “Hillary Clinton on the Keystone Pipeline” and “Hillary Clinton Positions on Guns.” Another quotes Hillary Clinton calling the TPP, which she recently came out against, “the gold standard in trade agreements”.
It’s a weird move for a guy who’s made positivity (read: not attacking Hillary Clinton for the supposed greater good of the party) central to his brand. But after running on a positive message all election long, Sanders found himself in a precarious position: Bernie had to be the face of positivity, even as defended himself against attacks from his opponents and went after Clinton.
Sanders managed to balance staying true to his brand and attacking Clinton, at the same time. When Anderson Cooper raised questions about Clinton’s private email server, for instance, Sanders dismissed them energetically, saying: “Enough of the emails. Let’s talk about the real issues facing America!”
But offstage, the emails from his spokesman sang a different note.
Stay tuned for more offstage reaction from the spin room via Guardian US political reporter Sabrina Siddiqui live at the Wynn in Las Vegas:
This is what's awaiting Bernie Sanders in the spin room as he wraps up TV hit. pic.twitter.com/DST407SL7d
11.52pm ET04:52
Ali Gharib
From Guardian US contributor Ali Gharib, on that long-ago – but policy-heavy – bit on Putin, Clinton and the incredible disappearing no-fly zone:
Hillary Clinton stood by one of the more hawkish foreign policy proposals that sets her apart from many of her Democratic opponents: a no-fly zone in Syria.
“I’m trying to figure out what leverage we have to get Russia to the table,” she said.
But that stands in contrast to what she said just last week: that the Russians would need to be on board before a no-fly zone was established. Defending her proposal in Iowa, Clinton said, “I think it’s complicated and the Russians would have to be part of it, or it wouldn’t work.”
Last week’s tack seems more reasonable than trying to block flights without Russian cooperation at a time when the Russians are flying frequent sorties in Syrian airspace.
11.15pm ET04:15
Jim Webb: killed a guy.
Cooper: Senator W— Jim Webb: I killed a guy. Cooper: The question was about climate. Webb: He's dead now. Cooper: B— Webb: The guy.
Don’t think O’Malley had a breakout moment persay, but I also don’t think he’s going anywhere any time soon. Oh and Jim Webb killed someone.
Lincoln Chafee: I am a block of granite Jim Webb: I used a block of granite to bludgeon a man to death.
11.13pm ET04:13
Lucia Graves
From National Journal reporter and Guardian US opinion contributor Lucia Graves:
Jim Webb just wouldn’t stop whining. ‘I’ve been standing over here for ten minutes trying,’ the former Virginia senator told Anderson Cooper when the host tried to cut him off earlier in the debate.
It’s a strange gripe for a guy who, midway through the night, was the third most mentioned name on Twitter according to Twitter’s own data, and who had the third largest quality of airtime according to PBS NewsHour.
It turns out whining may be a winning strategy, especially when you’ve got nothing left to lose.
11.11pm ET04:11
Suzanne Goldenberg
The five Democratic candidates said the words ‘climate change’ exactly 12 times in 2 hours. Here’s the Guardian’s US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg on why CNN didn’t let them say it more:
The climate change segment of the debate finally came – but the question didn’t come from CNN moderators but a member of the public: what would you do about climate change if you were president?
Martin O’Malley hauled out his plan to move the country to 100% clean energy by the middle of the century – but did not say how he would force industry to shift, or what would fill the energy gap. He made no mention of carbon pollution from transport, or land use.
Jim Webb revealed that when it comes to climate change, he is Republican-lite. He did not deny that climate change was occurring, but it is clearly not something he spends a lot of time worrying about – and unlike the other Democrats he will not spend a lot of time defending Barack Obama’s climate change regulations.
“Really we are not going to solve climate change simply with the laws here,” he said. “It’s a global problem.”
Bernie Sanders reiterated his view of climate change as a moral challenge – and that Republicans are blocking progress on solutions because of their ties to the fossil fuel industry: “Nothing is going to happen unless we are prepared to deal with campaign finance reform because the fossil fuel industry is funding the Republican party which is denying the reality of climate change.”
Hillary Clinton used the climate question once again to show up her experience as Secretary of State harkening back to an episode, recounted in her memoir, when she and Barack Obama went looking for the Chinese delegation in the cavernous conference centre at the Copenhagen climate meeting in 2009.
Campaigners had been looking to the debate to shed some light on what the Democratic presidential contenders would actually do to fight climate change. But CNN moderators abdicated their responsibility on the climate question, and left it up to a member of the public. The sole climate question – when it came – was too open-ended for that.
So this is what @hillaryclinton got up to at Copenhagen climate conference in 2009. By me http://t.co/HvzpqXBGRq
11.10pm ET04:10
From a reader on Guardian Witness:
Was the below question answered to your satisfaction?
Making anything happen under a republican congress
Given that at least the House of Representatives will almost certainly remain in Republican hands what would you do as president to advance your policies?
Congressional Republicans under President Obama have shown that reliance upon or faith in bipartisan negotiation is largely a waste of time, as they simply refuse to participate. Given that negotiation is (mostly) not an option what will you do on the campaign trail and in office to convince Americans to vote the Republican Party out of congress in 2018? What will you do to circumvent the Republican majority to achieve your policy goals in office? If you don't think these are the only options explain what other option(s) you think there are.
TL;DR: Republicans almost always refuse to negotiate and will likely control congress. How will to enact anything you promise? Don't say negotiate with them...
Sent via Guardian Witness
By Zachary Tosi
11 October 2015, 16:58
11.08pm ET04:08
Dodgers tie series
In case you weren’t among those channel surfing, the Dodgers have tied their NL playoffs series 2-2 with a 3-1 win over the Mets.
11.04pm ET04:04
Further video highlights!
Hillary Clinton: ‘It’s time the entire country stood up to the NRA’ – video
Updated at 5.41am ET
11.02pm ET04:02
Closing statements
Paraphrasing a bit:
Chafee: I have had no scandals– look it up. I voted against Iraq. Please go to chafee2016 to learn more about me.
Webb: You’ve heard a lot of promises tonight. But I can promise you if you look at my record, I can fix anything. Vietnam.
O’Malley: Our debate was better than the Republican debates. We didn’t denigrate women or make racist comments about immigrants or trash another religion. Clean electric grid by 2050.
Sanders: We have the highest rate of childhood poverty and more income and wealth inequality than any developed nation. Here’s the truth. Nobody up here can address the problem unless millions of American people stand up to fight the business class. 30 bucks apiece at BernieSanders dot com!
Clinton: Who amongst us has the vision for actually making the changes to improve Americans’ lives? Mom always said, it’s not if you get knocked down, it’s whether you get back up. Raise middle class incomes. It’s morning in America.
10.59pm ET03:59
Jessica Valenti
From Guardian US columnist Jessica Valenti, as Martin O’Malley mentions that you didn’t hear any sexists on stage tonight:
I’m glad paid family leave finally came up – but very curious why the question was framed as an issue between Clinton and Carly Fiorina (another woman!). This is an issue that all the candidates should care about.
I like Bernie, but the line that countries around the world ‘say that when a mother has a baby, she should stay home with that baby’ made me cringe a bit. I understand what Sanders is getting at, but he needs to be a bit more careful on language here.
Not all women want to stay at home, but certainly if they want to right after having children, they should be able to.
That said, HELL YES on Hillary going all in on the GOP’s war on Planned Parenthood.
10.58pm ET03:58
Nicole Sandler
From radio host Nicole Sandler:
Wall Street and the pharmaceutical industry are the enemies Bernie Sanders is most proud of making! I thank him for challenging those two monoliths of evil!
I’m Feeling the Bern right now a lot more than I did two hours ago.
10.55pm ET03:55
They’re back. Cooper says something about “final question.”
Which enemy are you most proud of?
Chafee: “I guess the coal lobby.”
O’Malley: “The National Rifle Association.
Clinton: Apart from the NRA, “the health insurance companies, the drug companies, the Iranians, probably the Republicans.” It’s as if she sees enemies everywhere?
Sanders: Of all my enemies, “at the top of the list, I would love Wall Street and the pharmaceutical industry.”
Webb: “The enemy soldier that threw the grenade that wounded me, but he’s not around right now to talk to.”
10.53pm ET03:53
Nicole Sandler
About that ‘yes’ from Sanders on pot and that ‘no’ from Clinton – a quick take first from radio host Nicole Sandler:
Bernie would vote to legalize marijuana because too many lives are destroyed by non-violent offenses – and Wall Street CEOs walk away from their crimes, but we send kids smoking pot to jail. Yes!
Another reason I love Bernie: weed.
Hillary Clinton is not ready to take a position on recreational marijuana legalization … again. Does she take a stance on anything controversial? At least she’s also talking about our prison problem, but it’s not enough.
From writer and RaceBaitR editor-in-chief Hari Ziyad:
Senator Sanders and Clinton are right to note that the criminal justice system is sending too many nonviolent drug offenders to prison, but what about the disproportionate effects for black communities?
We cannot discuss drug reform without an understanding of the racist history of drug laws.
10.53pm ET03:53
Ed Pilkington
One of the boldest statements of the night so far has been Hillary Clinton’s contention that Edward Snowden, the former NSA contractor who leaked details of mass surveillance by the US government to the Guardian and other news organisations, had “stolen a lot of important information that has unfortunately fallen into the wrong hands”, writes Guardian US chief reporter Ed Pilkington. Here’s a Snowden fact-check:
The claim that the Snowden documents have been obtained by the ‘wrong hands’ – a euphemism it must be assumed for China and Russia – is not a new one. Clinton was slipping into old conspiracy theories that claim Snowden allowed the Chinese or Russian governments to hack into his NSA data files or even worse that he was acting as a spy on their behalf.
But as Ewen MacAskill, the Guardian’s Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, has pointed out, no evidence has ever been put forward suggesting that the Snowden documents were hacked or that Snowden himself handed the material to any person or agency other than reputable news outlets. To suggest otherwise, as Clinton did, was perilously close to teasing the American public with unsubstantiated rumour mongering.
Updated at 10.57pm ET
10.50pm ET03:50
Another commercial break.
Who’s winning? Let’s hear it! Below the line please. We’ll feature the strongest and finest opinions in our reactions section after the debate has wrapped.
10.48pm ET03:48
More video highlights!
Bernie Sanders on why US needs a democratic socialist as president – video
10.47pm ET03:47
Daniel Hernandez
At the Culinary Union debate party in Las Vegas, Bethany Khan, a spokesperson for the Culinary Union 226, said the candidates did not go far enough on immigration reform, writes Daniel Hernandez.
“As a child of immigrants and someone who has family of mixed immigrant status, I was paying very close attention to what the candidates said about comprehensive immigration reform,” Khan said. “It was very vague. They’re not providing a plan. They talk about bringing people out of the shadows, but how? What’s going to happen to DAPA and DACA? We need action.”
More than 60% of Nevada’s Latinos have family, friends or co-workers who are undocumented immigrants.
10.47pm ET03:47
Sanders supports legal recreational marijuana; Clinton 'no' on a position
Sanders on legalizing recreational marijuana: "I suspect I would vote yes." #DemDebate
Pot question.
Sanders, you said you smoked pot twice. Would you vote for legalization on the state level?
“I suspect I would vote yes,” he says. Because “we have a criminal justice system that lets CEOs walk away and yet we are giving prison sentences to young people who smoke marijuana.”
Clinton: You didn’t smoke pot when young, and you’ve said you won’t start now. Are you ready to take a position on full recreational legalization tonight?
“No.”
Well that was blunt.
She goes on to say she supports medicinal marijuana and that drug sentences are too heavy.
Updated at 10.51pm ET
10.44pm ET03:44
Clinton is asked about GOP presidential candidate Carly Fiorina saying that paid family leave would hurt small business.
“I’m surprised she says that because California’s had a paid leave program for a number of years ...” and it hasn’t hurt business, Clinton says.
“This is typical Republican scare tactics. We can design a system and pay for it in a way that does not put the burden on small business.”
Clinton is the only one talking about the Republicans this way, attacking them, perhaps to show what she would do as a general election candidate.
Then she really digs in on the GOP:
“They don’t mind having big government to interfere with a woman’s right to choose and [attacking] Planned Parenthood.” Big applause line in the room.
“We should not be paralyzed by Republicans and their constant refrain, big government this, big government that.”
YES HILLARY #DemDebate
Updated at 10.46pm ET
10.41pm ET03:41
Climate change question. What would you do to combat the problem?
O’Malley says he would expand tax credits for solar and wind power. “We can get there as a nation but it’s going to require presidential leadership,” he says.
Webb says he’s a strong proponent of nuclear power and “we are not going to solve climate change simply with the laws here [in the United States]. It’s a global problem.”
Sanders:
I believe and Pope Francis made this point. This is a moral issue. The scientists are telling us that we need to move extremely boldly... nothing is going to happen unless we are prepared to deal with campaign finance reform because the fossil fuel industry is funding the Republican party.
Clinton:
When we met in Copenhagen in 2009, President Obama and I were literally hunting for the Chinese, because we knew we had to get them to agree to something ... They supposedly had left for the airport. We found out they were having a secret meeting. We marched up, we broke in, we said we’ve been looking all over for you ... and we did get an agreement.
Updated at 10.42pm ET
10.40pm ET03:40
Jessica Valenti
The candidates are talking about climate change, but here’s Guardian US columnist Jessica Valenti on what the four men and Hillary Clinton are not talking about yet: women.
"I think of being anymore than an outside than being the first woman president." @HillaryClinton #DemDebate
The night isn’t over, but it seems a major misstep that more airtime hasn’t been devoted to women’s issues – reproductive rights, in particular.
The Republican debates focused so much on Planned Parenthood – lying about the group, even making up videos that don’t exist – that to not address it would be incredibly disappointing.
Reproductive rights are part of pay equity, immigration and women’s ability to participate in the public sphere.
I also wish we were hearing some questions about the sexual assault epidemic and what the candidates would do about it.
10.37pm ET03:37
O’Malley accuses Clinton of being a dynasty candidate.O’Malley accuses Clinton of being a dynasty candidate.
“I would not ask anyone to vote for me based on my last name,” Clinton replies. “I certainly am not campaigning to be president because my last name is Clinton.”“I would not ask anyone to vote for me based on my last name,” Clinton replies. “I certainly am not campaigning to be president because my last name is Clinton.”
She says she’s running because she’s right for the moment and the country. Plus:She says she’s running because she’s right for the moment and the country. Plus:
“I think I can take the fight to Republicans, because we cannot afford to have a Republican succeed Barack Obama as president.” I think I can take the fight to Republicans, because we cannot afford to have a Republican succeed Barack Obama as president.
3.35am BST03:35 Updated at 10.40pm ET
10.35pm ET03:35
Ok peel your eyes off that beefcake O’Malley because they’re back!Ok peel your eyes off that beefcake O’Malley because they’re back!
Cooper asks Clinton about “the year of the outsider in politics.”Cooper asks Clinton about “the year of the outsider in politics.”
Why should Democrats embrace an insider like yourself?Why should Democrats embrace an insider like yourself?
Clinton says she would be the first woman president which is a break from the usual, innit.Clinton says she would be the first woman president which is a break from the usual, innit.
But she says she would back it up with policy chops too.But she says she would back it up with policy chops too.
“I’m very happy that I have both the commitment of a lifetime and the experience of a lifetime to offer the American people,” she says.“I’m very happy that I have both the commitment of a lifetime and the experience of a lifetime to offer the American people,” she says.
Updated at 3.36am BST Updated at 10.36pm ET
3.35am BST03:35 10.35pm ET03:35
Jessica ValentiJessica Valenti
From Guardian US staff writer Jessica Valenti:From Guardian US staff writer Jessica Valenti:
That @HillaryClinton has been the only person tonight to bring up women is exactly why it's important for a woman to be POTUS #DemDebateThat @HillaryClinton has been the only person tonight to bring up women is exactly why it's important for a woman to be POTUS #DemDebate
3.32am BST03:32 10.32pm ET03:32
Twice tonight, Lincoln Chafee has defended votes he cast in the senate by citing overwhelmingly lopsided final tallies of 90-some to 5, etc. The “Everybody’s doing it” defense, basically.Twice tonight, Lincoln Chafee has defended votes he cast in the senate by citing overwhelmingly lopsided final tallies of 90-some to 5, etc. The “Everybody’s doing it” defense, basically.
Just want to share this for Lincoln Chafee https://t.co/Zd6ICiX0oPJust want to share this for Lincoln Chafee https://t.co/Zd6ICiX0oP
3.30am BST03:30 10.30pm ET03:30
Anderson Cooper appears just to have accused “everybody in this room” of having tried marijuana.Anderson Cooper appears just to have accused “everybody in this room” of having tried marijuana.
What room?What room?
Anyway, commercial break, again. SO tell us who you think is winning the debate so far?Anyway, commercial break, again. SO tell us who you think is winning the debate so far?
@youngsinick I'm just saying, if you put it on mute tho?? It's liiiiiit. pic.twitter.com/a4ma7FFi8O@youngsinick I'm just saying, if you put it on mute tho?? It's liiiiiit. pic.twitter.com/a4ma7FFi8O
(h/t @megancarpentier)(h/t @megancarpentier)
I hope they’ve got a stoned journalist to ask the post questions like they had the black guy ask race question & the hispanic on immigrationI hope they’ve got a stoned journalist to ask the post questions like they had the black guy ask race question & the hispanic on immigration
Updated at 3.36am BST Updated at 10.36pm ET
3.30am BST03:30 10.30pm ET03:30
Nicole SandlerNicole Sandler
From radio host Nicole Sandler:From radio host Nicole Sandler:
Bernie Sanders keeps showing the courage of his convictions. From voting against the Patriot Act to dismantling the NSA surveillance program to praising Edward Snowden – who ‘played an important role’ in exposing what the intelligence agencies were doing, even while acknowledging that Snowden broke the law.Bernie Sanders keeps showing the courage of his convictions. From voting against the Patriot Act to dismantling the NSA surveillance program to praising Edward Snowden – who ‘played an important role’ in exposing what the intelligence agencies were doing, even while acknowledging that Snowden broke the law.
No one else on stage even bothered. With all the talk of Hillary moving to the left, Bernie keeps showing how wide the gulf is between the two of them. NSA, Snowden. And he’s actually answering questions, with honesty and courage. What a concept!No one else on stage even bothered. With all the talk of Hillary moving to the left, Bernie keeps showing how wide the gulf is between the two of them. NSA, Snowden. And he’s actually answering questions, with honesty and courage. What a concept!
Another big gulf opens up between Sanders and Clinton over Edward Snowden and #NSA #DemDebateAnother big gulf opens up between Sanders and Clinton over Edward Snowden and #NSA #DemDebate
Updated at 3.36am BST Updated at 10.36pm ET
3.27am BST03:27 10.27pm ET03:27
Clinton is asked how she would be different from Barack Obama.Clinton is asked how she would be different from Barack Obama.
I think that’s pretty obvious. I think being the first woman president would be quite a change from the presidents we’ve had up to this point, including President Obama.I think that’s pretty obvious. I think being the first woman president would be quite a change from the presidents we’ve had up to this point, including President Obama.
Asked to name policies, she says economic policies, taking on prescription drug companies, and offering free college tuition.Asked to name policies, she says economic policies, taking on prescription drug companies, and offering free college tuition.
Updated at 3.30am BST Updated at 10.30pm ET
3.25am BST03:25 10.25pm ET03:25
Clinton says Edward Snowden should 'face the music'Clinton says Edward Snowden should 'face the music'
Round of questions on Edward Snowden now. Hero, or traitor?Round of questions on Edward Snowden now. Hero, or traitor?
Chafee: Bring him home. He did a service.Chafee: Bring him home. He did a service.
Clinton: “He broke the laws of the United States. He could’ve been a whistleblower ... He could’ve raised all the issues that have been raised ... He stole very important information that has fallen into the wrong hands. I think he should not come up without being made to face the music.”Clinton: “He broke the laws of the United States. He could’ve been a whistleblower ... He could’ve raised all the issues that have been raised ... He stole very important information that has fallen into the wrong hands. I think he should not come up without being made to face the music.”
Sanders: “He did break the law, and I think there should be a penalty to that. But I think what he did in educating us should be taken into account.Sanders: “He did break the law, and I think there should be a penalty to that. But I think what he did in educating us should be taken into account.
Webb: “I would leave it to the legal system.”Webb: “I would leave it to the legal system.”
O’Malley would imprison Snowden.O’Malley would imprison Snowden.
Updated at 3.31am BST Updated at 10.31pm ET
3.24am BST03:24 10.24pm ET03:24
Clinton is asked whether she regrets her vote in favor of the USA Patriot act.Clinton is asked whether she regrets her vote in favor of the USA Patriot act.
“No, I don’t.”“No, I don’t.”
She says it was necessary after 9/11 to put in place security and a “process”, but “the Bush administration began to chip away at that process, and I began to speak out.”She says it was necessary after 9/11 to put in place security and a “process”, but “the Bush administration began to chip away at that process, and I began to speak out.”
Question for Sanders: Would you shut down the NSA surveillance programs?Question for Sanders: Would you shut down the NSA surveillance programs?
“Absolutely, of course. I would shut down what exists right now.”“Absolutely, of course. I would shut down what exists right now.”
3.19am BST03:19 10.19pm ET03:19
O’Malley refers to “Donald Trump, that carnival barker in the Republican party.” Burrn ...O’Malley refers to “Donald Trump, that carnival barker in the Republican party.” Burrn ...
Updated at 3.20am BST Updated at 10.20pm ET
3.18am BST03:18 10.18pm ET03:18
Sanders takes a question about his 2007 vote against immigration reform.Sanders takes a question about his 2007 vote against immigration reform.
“I voted against that piece of legislation because it had guest worker provisions in it which the SPLC talked about being semi-slavery,” he says. “I was not the only progressive to vote against that legislation for that reason.“I voted against that piece of legislation because it had guest worker provisions in it which the SPLC talked about being semi-slavery,” he says. “I was not the only progressive to vote against that legislation for that reason.
We need comprehensive immigration reform. We need a path to citizenship. We need to take people out of the shadows.We need comprehensive immigration reform. We need a path to citizenship. We need to take people out of the shadows.
Over to Clinton:Over to Clinton:
She says every child should get health care, including undocumented children, but that a broader framework of comprehensive immigration reform is needed.She says every child should get health care, including undocumented children, but that a broader framework of comprehensive immigration reform is needed.
O’Malley:O’Malley:
We need to understand that our country has been made stronger in every generation by new arrivals.We need to understand that our country has been made stronger in every generation by new arrivals.
Webb:Webb:
My wife is an immigrant. ... No country is a country without defining its borders. We need to resolve this issues.My wife is an immigrant. ... No country is a country without defining its borders. We need to resolve this issues.
Back to Clinton:Back to Clinton:
There is such a difference between what you’re hearing on this stage, and what you’re hearing from Republicans, who have demonized hard-working immigrants, who have insulted them.There is such a difference between what you’re hearing on this stage, and what you’re hearing from Republicans, who have demonized hard-working immigrants, who have insulted them.
Clinton says she would “go even further” than Obama’s executive orders.Clinton says she would “go even further” than Obama’s executive orders.
3.16am BST03:16 10.16pm ET03:16
Nicole SandlerNicole Sandler
From radio host Nicole Sandler, as Bernie gets his bern back:From radio host Nicole Sandler, as Bernie gets his bern back:
Sanders, recharging pic.twitter.com/qGPO2yUYvJSanders, recharging pic.twitter.com/qGPO2yUYvJ
Bernie said that every high school graduate should be able to go to college, tuition-free, through a tax on Wall Street speculation. As the mother of an 11th grader, I don’t know if I’ll be able to send my kid to college, and don’t want her to take on the kind of debt it might require for her to finance it herself.Bernie said that every high school graduate should be able to go to college, tuition-free, through a tax on Wall Street speculation. As the mother of an 11th grader, I don’t know if I’ll be able to send my kid to college, and don’t want her to take on the kind of debt it might require for her to finance it herself.
Sanders has led on this issue. Others are following him.Sanders has led on this issue. Others are following him.
Clinton’s proposal won’t provide free college, because middle-class families will still have to pay tuition on a sliding scale. Her plan won’t eliminate ‘student debt’, because families will have to go deeper into debt to pay that tuition. It’s not enough.Clinton’s proposal won’t provide free college, because middle-class families will still have to pay tuition on a sliding scale. Her plan won’t eliminate ‘student debt’, because families will have to go deeper into debt to pay that tuition. It’s not enough.
3.15am BST03:15 10.15pm ET03:15
Suzanne GoldenbergSuzanne Goldenberg
The Democratic presidential contenders paid more attention to climate change in their opening statements then Republicans did in five hours of debates, writes US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg. But the biggest contrast came when contenders were asked about the gravest national security threat to the US:The Democratic presidential contenders paid more attention to climate change in their opening statements then Republicans did in five hours of debates, writes US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg. But the biggest contrast came when contenders were asked about the gravest national security threat to the US:
O’Malley made glancing reference to climate change “making cascading threats even worse” - what the military calls a threat multiplier.O’Malley made glancing reference to climate change “making cascading threats even worse” - what the military calls a threat multiplier.
But Sanders drove it out of the park, provoking a roar of approval from the crowd by repeating his declaration from the opening moments of the debate that if the international community fails to address climate change, and transform the energy system, the entire planet would be in peril. “That is a major crisis,” Sanders concluded.But Sanders drove it out of the park, provoking a roar of approval from the crowd by repeating his declaration from the opening moments of the debate that if the international community fails to address climate change, and transform the energy system, the entire planet would be in peril. “That is a major crisis,” Sanders concluded.
The strong climate statements are almost word-perfect reiterations of Sanders pronouncements during the debate on the Keystone XL pipeline at the start of the year.The strong climate statements are almost word-perfect reiterations of Sanders pronouncements during the debate on the Keystone XL pipeline at the start of the year.
On the campaign trail, Sanders has regularly cited climate change as the single greatest national security threat.On the campaign trail, Sanders has regularly cited climate change as the single greatest national security threat.
In the Republican camp, meanwhile, it was business as usual with Mike Huckabee tweeting derisively about Democrats fretting about the threat of “sunburn”.In the Republican camp, meanwhile, it was business as usual with Mike Huckabee tweeting derisively about Democrats fretting about the threat of “sunburn”.
They believe climate change is a greater threat than Islamic extremism, that a sunburn is worse than a beheading. It's nonsense! #DemDebateThey believe climate change is a greater threat than Islamic extremism, that a sunburn is worse than a beheading. It's nonsense! #DemDebate
3.13am BST03:13 10.13pm ET03:13
Clinton is talking about her plan to allow anyone to go to public colleges tuition-free. Students would work 10 hours a week and colleges would get their costs down.Clinton is talking about her plan to allow anyone to go to public colleges tuition-free. Students would work 10 hours a week and colleges would get their costs down.
Update: tuition and college debt is a top concern among readers:Update: tuition and college debt is a top concern among readers:
Outstanding student debtOutstanding student debt
Many of you have expressed plans to make a college education at least "debt free", but what will you do about the millions of young adults currently saddled with ~$1 trillion in student loan debt ?Many of you have expressed plans to make a college education at least "debt free", but what will you do about the millions of young adults currently saddled with ~$1 trillion in student loan debt ?
Almost no one my age (25) that I know has no student debt. I can name 2 out of the hundreds of people I know in my age range that have started paying off a home rather than paying rent. This was not the case for my parents.Almost no one my age (25) that I know has no student debt. I can name 2 out of the hundreds of people I know in my age range that have started paying off a home rather than paying rent. This was not the case for my parents.
A debt-free education for the next generation is wonderful, but even with favorable interest rates, my generation--the millennials--will not be able to participate in the economy the way the boomers did while under the burden of this much debt.A debt-free education for the next generation is wonderful, but even with favorable interest rates, my generation--the millennials--will not be able to participate in the economy the way the boomers did while under the burden of this much debt.
Sent via Guardian WitnessSent via Guardian Witness
By Zachary TosiBy Zachary Tosi
11 October 2015, 17:2411 October 2015, 17:24
Clinton takes a follow-up about social security. Would she expand it?Clinton takes a follow-up about social security. Would she expand it?
I want to enhance the benefits for the poorest beneficiaries of social security.I want to enhance the benefits for the poorest beneficiaries of social security.
She says single and widowed women in particular need extra help because they did not make much during their careers and “they are impoverished”.She says single and widowed women in particular need extra help because they did not make much during their careers and “they are impoverished”.
Updated at 3.20am BST Updated at 10.20pm ET
3.11am BST03:11 10.11pm ET03:11
Jeb LundJeb Lund
From Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund:From Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund:
Interesting point: Hillary Clinton tried to tell Anderson Cooper and the crowd that she, Martin O’Malley and Bernie Sanders share attitudes on banking regulation, and it was a poor feint. There’s not a lot Clinton can do to paper over the fact that she has more big checks from Wall Street donors than the others – Sanders because he refuses them, O’Malley because he has none, since Clinton’s hoovering up all that money.Interesting point: Hillary Clinton tried to tell Anderson Cooper and the crowd that she, Martin O’Malley and Bernie Sanders share attitudes on banking regulation, and it was a poor feint. There’s not a lot Clinton can do to paper over the fact that she has more big checks from Wall Street donors than the others – Sanders because he refuses them, O’Malley because he has none, since Clinton’s hoovering up all that money.
Potentially troublesome going forward: Clinton promised to intervene in big banks before they go toxic on the basis of what her experts tell her. But given who her experts are, this potentially validates Sanders’ attack that she’s asking banks to self-regulate.Potentially troublesome going forward: Clinton promised to intervene in big banks before they go toxic on the basis of what her experts tell her. But given who her experts are, this potentially validates Sanders’ attack that she’s asking banks to self-regulate.
3.11am BST03:11 10.11pm ET03:11
Jessica LeeJessica Lee
You’ve made it half way through the debate, writes Jessica Lee. Congratulations! If you feel like you need a drink, join the crowd ...You’ve made it half way through the debate, writes Jessica Lee. Congratulations! If you feel like you need a drink, join the crowd ...
3.10am BST03:10 10.10pm ET03:10
Talking past each other.Talking past each other.
Sanders: “Donald Trump and his billionaire friends, under my policies, are going to pay a hell of a lot more in taxes than they’re paying today.”Sanders: “Donald Trump and his billionaire friends, under my policies, are going to pay a hell of a lot more in taxes than they’re paying today.”
Sorry, there is no STAR on the stage tonight!Sorry, there is no STAR on the stage tonight!
3.08am BST03:08 10.08pm ET03:08
Sam ThielmanSam Thielman
The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) remains a vital point of contention between Sanders and Clinton, although now it’s more a matter of Sanders having been against it before it was cool, writes Sam Thielman.The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) remains a vital point of contention between Sanders and Clinton, although now it’s more a matter of Sanders having been against it before it was cool, writes Sam Thielman.
Cooper asked Clinton about the trade deal right off the bat, notably her earlier designation of it as “the gold standard”; she said that she had been “very consistent over the course of my entire life” and that she hadn’t seen the entire deal until it had been negotiated.Cooper asked Clinton about the trade deal right off the bat, notably her earlier designation of it as “the gold standard”; she said that she had been “very consistent over the course of my entire life” and that she hadn’t seen the entire deal until it had been negotiated.
She told Cooper she’d said in 2012 she “hoped it would be the gold standard” and that “in looking at it, it didn’t meet my standards”. That first part isn’t accurate; here’s the full quote in context from a speech at Techport in Adelaide, Australia – a potential member nation of the treaty:She told Cooper she’d said in 2012 she “hoped it would be the gold standard” and that “in looking at it, it didn’t meet my standards”. That first part isn’t accurate; here’s the full quote in context from a speech at Techport in Adelaide, Australia – a potential member nation of the treaty:
“This TPP sets the gold standard in trade agreements to open free, transparent, fair trade, the kind of environment that has the rule of law and a level playing field. And when negotiated, this agreement will cover 40 percent of the world’s total trade and build in strong protections for workers and the environment.”“This TPP sets the gold standard in trade agreements to open free, transparent, fair trade, the kind of environment that has the rule of law and a level playing field. And when negotiated, this agreement will cover 40 percent of the world’s total trade and build in strong protections for workers and the environment.”
You can read the full text of that speech here.You can read the full text of that speech here.
In fairness, she has become less enthusiastic over the years, sounding a note of caution in her memoir last year and at other times. Unfortunately she’s late to the game – plenty of other organizations, notably the Vatican, aren’t wild about it, either.In fairness, she has become less enthusiastic over the years, sounding a note of caution in her memoir last year and at other times. Unfortunately she’s late to the game – plenty of other organizations, notably the Vatican, aren’t wild about it, either.
Sanders has opposed the TPP consistently while Clinton has wavered back and forth over her various tenures as senator and of course secretary of state under Obama (where she would have helped to negotiate the deal), who would mark the TPP as a major legislative accomplishment were it actually to clear Congress, where no one has yet read it and there is opposition and support on both sides of the aisle.Sanders has opposed the TPP consistently while Clinton has wavered back and forth over her various tenures as senator and of course secretary of state under Obama (where she would have helped to negotiate the deal), who would mark the TPP as a major legislative accomplishment were it actually to clear Congress, where no one has yet read it and there is opposition and support on both sides of the aisle.
Though the treaty is championed by the Democratic president, it does not have unilateral support on the left by any means. Complicating it for liberals are a number of provisions seen as giveaways to private industry (especially to pharmaceutical companies) and the creation of an international tribunal in which corporations could sue member governments. Conservatives, meanwhile, see the treaty either as a way of allowing American businesses to give jobs away to foreigners.Though the treaty is championed by the Democratic president, it does not have unilateral support on the left by any means. Complicating it for liberals are a number of provisions seen as giveaways to private industry (especially to pharmaceutical companies) and the creation of an international tribunal in which corporations could sue member governments. Conservatives, meanwhile, see the treaty either as a way of allowing American businesses to give jobs away to foreigners.
Sanders, by contrast, unequivocally hates the deal and is happy to say so, calling it “a disastrous trade agreement designed to protect the interests of the largest multi-national corporations at the expense of workers, consumers, the environment and the foundations of American democracy.”Sanders, by contrast, unequivocally hates the deal and is happy to say so, calling it “a disastrous trade agreement designed to protect the interests of the largest multi-national corporations at the expense of workers, consumers, the environment and the foundations of American democracy.”
A Wikileaks drop of what appears to be a recent draft of the intellectual property chapter of the deal has raised hackles throughout the activist community, among them those of futurist, novelist and sometime Guardian columnist Cory Doctorow, who wonks out entertainingly about the chapter’s various potential difficulties here.A Wikileaks drop of what appears to be a recent draft of the intellectual property chapter of the deal has raised hackles throughout the activist community, among them those of futurist, novelist and sometime Guardian columnist Cory Doctorow, who wonks out entertainingly about the chapter’s various potential difficulties here.
Updated at 3.13am BST Updated at 5.04am ET
3.08am BST03:08 10.08pm ET03:08
Here is video of a couple lively moments from the debate so far:Here is video of a couple lively moments from the debate so far:
Democratic Debate: Bernie Sanders clarifies his stance on gunsDemocratic Debate: Bernie Sanders clarifies his stance on guns
Bernie Sanders explains Democratic SocialismBernie Sanders explains Democratic Socialism
3.05am BST03:05 10.05pm ET03:05
Clinton warns that the risk of a new financial crisis is real:Clinton warns that the risk of a new financial crisis is real:
We still have to deal with the problem that banks are too big to fail. AIG an insurance company. Lehman Brothers, an investment bank. There’s this whole area called shadow banking, and that’s where experts tell me the next crisis could come from.We still have to deal with the problem that banks are too big to fail. AIG an insurance company. Lehman Brothers, an investment bank. There’s this whole area called shadow banking, and that’s where experts tell me the next crisis could come from.
Sanders delivers a somewhat more bracing summary of the situation:Sanders delivers a somewhat more bracing summary of the situation:
Let us be clear that the greed and recklessness of Wall sStreet... where fraud is a business model, helped to destroy the economy of this country and the lives of Americans.”Let us be clear that the greed and recklessness of Wall sStreet... where fraud is a business model, helped to destroy the economy of this country and the lives of Americans.”
Clinton says “I respect the passion and intensity” of Sanders.Clinton says “I respect the passion and intensity” of Sanders.
Then Clinton claims that she tried to confront Wall Street and the Bush administration before the 2008 economic crash.Then Clinton claims that she tried to confront Wall Street and the Bush administration before the 2008 economic crash.
She says as a senator from New York in 2007, she “went down” to Wall Street.She says as a senator from New York in 2007, she “went down” to Wall Street.
“I basically said, cut it out, quick foreclosing on homes, quit engaging in speculative behavior,” she says.“I basically said, cut it out, quick foreclosing on homes, quit engaging in speculative behavior,” she says.
Sanders makes fun of the reply, saying that no politician tells Wall Street what to do.Sanders makes fun of the reply, saying that no politician tells Wall Street what to do.
In my view, secretary Clinton, Congress does not regulate Wall Street, Wall street regulates the banks.In my view, secretary Clinton, Congress does not regulate Wall Street, Wall street regulates the banks.
3.03am BST03:03 10.03pm ET03:03
Hari ZiyadHari Ziyad
From writer and RaceBaitR editor-in-chief Hari Ziyad:From writer and RaceBaitR editor-in-chief Hari Ziyad:
Martin O’Malley and Bernie Sanders seem to have learned from the disruptions to which they fell victim earlier this year. On race, they are saying all the right words now.Martin O’Malley and Bernie Sanders seem to have learned from the disruptions to which they fell victim earlier this year. On race, they are saying all the right words now.
But Hillary Clinton moved past words and into specifics. And then, activists have been saying over and over again that we cannot continue to talk about income inequality without a racial lens. Sanders had the perfect set-up to address their concerns on race, but he faltered.But Hillary Clinton moved past words and into specifics. And then, activists have been saying over and over again that we cannot continue to talk about income inequality without a racial lens. Sanders had the perfect set-up to address their concerns on race, but he faltered.
Jim Webb still doesn’t understand that “black lives matter” needs to be reinforced to point out that, historically, black lives haven’t. A candidate who does not understand the history can not change it.Jim Webb still doesn’t understand that “black lives matter” needs to be reinforced to point out that, historically, black lives haven’t. A candidate who does not understand the history can not change it.
And then there’s this troll, from the other side of the aisle:And then there’s this troll, from the other side of the aisle:
Racism exists because we have a sin problem in America, not a skin problem. #DemDebateRacism exists because we have a sin problem in America, not a skin problem. #DemDebate
Updated at 3.08am BST Updated at 10.08pm ET
3.01am BST03:01 10.01pm ET03:01
Dan RobertsDan Roberts
Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts checks in from a bar in Washington:Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts checks in from a bar in Washington:
Unsurprisingly, Bernie Sanders is going down well with his supporters at one of the 4,000 debate parties his campaign has set up around the country.Unsurprisingly, Bernie Sanders is going down well with his supporters at one of the 4,000 debate parties his campaign has set up around the country.
The biggest round of applause so far came when Sanders defended Clinton over the email scandal. Of all the things that are bothering these young voters about America, this is not one.The biggest round of applause so far came when Sanders defended Clinton over the email scandal. Of all the things that are bothering these young voters about America, this is not one.
But his grilling on guns has elicited an interesting reaction from some of the young students who form the backbone of his support and seem to value his authenticity most of all.But his grilling on guns has elicited an interesting reaction from some of the young students who form the backbone of his support and seem to value his authenticity most of all.
“I am probably a little more liberal on guns than he is,” says Victoria Latus, a law student at American University. “But I like the fact the he is not changing his views on this like Hillary Clinton does on things like trade. ... It’s not as if he doesn’t want any gun reform either.”“I am probably a little more liberal on guns than he is,” says Victoria Latus, a law student at American University. “But I like the fact the he is not changing his views on this like Hillary Clinton does on things like trade. ... It’s not as if he doesn’t want any gun reform either.”
This sense that Sanders is the ‘real deal’ brings whoops and cheers whenever he speaks, but some debate-watchers here are worried that he is coming across too well.This sense that Sanders is the ‘real deal’ brings whoops and cheers whenever he speaks, but some debate-watchers here are worried that he is coming across too well.
“I like Sanders, but I don’t think he should or can be president,” says student Giles Hinders. “He is coming across well tonight but it could mean he wins the nomination and loses to one of the Republicans.”“I like Sanders, but I don’t think he should or can be president,” says student Giles Hinders. “He is coming across well tonight but it could mean he wins the nomination and loses to one of the Republicans.”
2.59am BST02:59 9.59pm ET02:59
Cooper asks Clinton how she can work on behalf of the middle class when she is a member of the 1%.Cooper asks Clinton how she can work on behalf of the middle class when she is a member of the 1%.
“Both Bill and I have been very blessed,” she says. Groan.“Both Bill and I have been very blessed,” she says. Groan.
Neither of us came from wealthy families and we have been working hard our entire lives.Neither of us came from wealthy families and we have been working hard our entire lives.
Then she talks about opportunity for every child.Then she talks about opportunity for every child.
2.58am BST02:58 9.58pm ET02:58
Sanders gets a question about wage inequality. He tees up.Sanders gets a question about wage inequality. He tees up.
First of all, let’s remember where we were when Bush left office... I know my Republican friends seem to have some amnesia on this issue.”First of all, let’s remember where we were when Bush left office... I know my Republican friends seem to have some amnesia on this issue.”
He goes on to call for a minimum wage of $15, pay equity for women, new trade policies, free tuition for public colleges and universities.He goes on to call for a minimum wage of $15, pay equity for women, new trade policies, free tuition for public colleges and universities.
2.56am BST02:56 9.56pm ET02:56
Webb gets his turn. “I hope I get that kind of time,” he says.Webb gets his turn. “I hope I get that kind of time,” he says.
2.55am BST02:55 9.55pm ET02:55
Question for the candidates: Do black lives matter, or do all lives matter?Question for the candidates: Do black lives matter, or do all lives matter?
Sanders:Sanders:
Black lives matter ... We need to combat institutional racism from top to bottom. And we need major major repairs to a broken criminal justice system.Black lives matter ... We need to combat institutional racism from top to bottom. And we need major major repairs to a broken criminal justice system.
O’Malley:O’Malley:
Anderson, the point that the BLM movement is making is a very very legitimate point...Anderson, the point that the BLM movement is making is a very very legitimate point...
He kind of dodges the question. In any case he doesn’t nail it.He kind of dodges the question. In any case he doesn’t nail it.
Clinton gets a slightly different question. What could you do that Obama can’t?Clinton gets a slightly different question. What could you do that Obama can’t?
Clinton says that Obama has been a great moral leader on the issues despite being blocked “at every turn” by Republicans.Clinton says that Obama has been a great moral leader on the issues despite being blocked “at every turn” by Republicans.
“This may be the only bipartisan issue in the Congress this year,” she says, about criminal justice reform.“This may be the only bipartisan issue in the Congress this year,” she says, about criminal justice reform.
Updated at 2.56am BST Updated at 9.56pm ET
2.53am BST02:53 9.53pm ET02:53
Nicole SandlerNicole Sandler
From radio host Nicole Sandler:From radio host Nicole Sandler:
Stop. Talking. About. The Emails. @BernieSanders @HillaryClinton #DemDebate #RadioTalksDem pic.twitter.com/yMkjbiOVSAStop. Talking. About. The Emails. @BernieSanders @HillaryClinton #DemDebate #RadioTalksDem pic.twitter.com/yMkjbiOVSA
Bernie, on Hillary’s email, says this may not be great politics but: ‘enough of the emails – let’s talk about the real issues facing America’.Bernie, on Hillary’s email, says this may not be great politics but: ‘enough of the emails – let’s talk about the real issues facing America’.
And that why we Feel the Bern!And that why we Feel the Bern!
2.51am BST02:51 9.51pm ET02:51
Chafee says the emails are fair game, because “there’s an issue of American credibility there” and “I think we need somebody who has the best ethical standards to be our next president”.Chafee says the emails are fair game, because “there’s an issue of American credibility there” and “I think we need somebody who has the best ethical standards to be our next president”.
Cooper: “Secretary Clinton, do you want to respond?Cooper: “Secretary Clinton, do you want to respond?
Clinton: “No” – with a big smile.Clinton: “No” – with a big smile.
More big applause.More big applause.
And that appears to be it about the email?And that appears to be it about the email?
Updated at 2.52am BST Updated at 9.52pm ET
2.49am BST02:49 9.49pm ET02:49
Sanders to Clinton: 'the American public is sick and tired of hearing about your damn emails'Sanders to Clinton: 'the American public is sick and tired of hearing about your damn emails'
Let me say something that may not be great politics. But I think that the secretary is right. And that is that the American public is sick and tired of hearing about your damn emails.Let me say something that may not be great politics. But I think that the secretary is right. And that is that the American public is sick and tired of hearing about your damn emails.
Wild applause. Standing ovation.Wild applause. Standing ovation.
2.48am BST02:48 9.48pm ET02:48
Clinton takes a question about her email.Clinton takes a question about her email.
She says it was a mistake. But she says she has turned over tens of thousands of pages of her emails and agreed to testify before Congress in a public hearing.She says it was a mistake. But she says she has turned over tens of thousands of pages of her emails and agreed to testify before Congress in a public hearing.
Then she turns on the committee: “Let’s just take a moment to point out that this committee is basically an arm of the Republican national committee.”Then she turns on the committee: “Let’s just take a moment to point out that this committee is basically an arm of the Republican national committee.”
She’s applauded.She’s applauded.
“I’m still standing,” she says.“I’m still standing,” she says.
More applause.More applause.
Updated at 2.49am BST Updated at 9.49pm ET
2.46am BST02:46 9.46pm ET02:46
Lincoln Chafee: “You’re looking at a block of granite”Lincoln Chafee: “You’re looking at a block of granite”
You're welcome. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/fB4M2TplcFYou're welcome. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/fB4M2TplcF
2.45am BST02:45 9.45pm ET02:45
Nicole SandlerNicole Sandler
Radio host Nicole Sandler is (still) fired up about Cooper’s moderation:Radio host Nicole Sandler is (still) fired up about Cooper’s moderation:
Now Anderson Cooper encouraging attacks on Senator Sanders because he applied for conscientious objector status during the Vietnam War. Kudos to Jim Webb for answering in a classy, non-judgmental way. Shame on Cooper for his bias, again.Now Anderson Cooper encouraging attacks on Senator Sanders because he applied for conscientious objector status during the Vietnam War. Kudos to Jim Webb for answering in a classy, non-judgmental way. Shame on Cooper for his bias, again.
2.44am BST02:44 9.44pm ET02:44
Heh pretty good.Heh pretty good.
What happens in Vegas...is I watch @HillaryClinton prove she's the most qualified candidate for POTUS. #ImWithHer pic.twitter.com/ax1d56WhwtWhat happens in Vegas...is I watch @HillaryClinton prove she's the most qualified candidate for POTUS. #ImWithHer pic.twitter.com/ax1d56Whwt
2.42am BST02:42 9.42pm ET02:42
COMMERCIAL BREAKCOMMERCIAL BREAK
2.42am BST02:42 9.42pm ET02:42
Question for all the candidates: What’s the biggest national security threat?Question for all the candidates: What’s the biggest national security threat?
Chafee: missed it (us, not him)Chafee: missed it (us, not him)
O’Malley: nuclear Iran, climate changeO’Malley: nuclear Iran, climate change
Clinton: continued threat from spread of nuclear weapons, nuclear materialClinton: continued threat from spread of nuclear weapons, nuclear material
Sanders: the global crisis of climate changeSanders: the global crisis of climate change
Webb: relations with China, cyber warfare and the situation in the Middle East.Webb: relations with China, cyber warfare and the situation in the Middle East.
2.41am BST02:41 9.41pm ET02:41
Adam GabbattAdam Gabbatt
A lot of people, if Donald Trump’s tweets are to be believed, are only following the debate so they can enjoy Donald Trump’s tweets, Adam Gabbatt writes.A lot of people, if Donald Trump’s tweets are to be believed, are only following the debate so they can enjoy Donald Trump’s tweets, Adam Gabbatt writes.
"@theericker: @realDonaldTrump not watching debate....just your tweets" Nice!"@theericker: @realDonaldTrump not watching debate....just your tweets" Nice!
"@Roolaloo: Joined twitter tonight JUST to follow along with @realDonaldTrump and #DemDebate. Lets make America great again! #trump2016""@Roolaloo: Joined twitter tonight JUST to follow along with @realDonaldTrump and #DemDebate. Lets make America great again! #trump2016"
Quite what they’re getting out of his Twitter feed is unclear. He’s mostly just retweeting people who say they’re enjoying his tweets.Quite what they’re getting out of his Twitter feed is unclear. He’s mostly just retweeting people who say they’re enjoying his tweets.
Apart from that Trump’s insights have included:Apart from that Trump’s insights have included:
Can anyone imagine Chafee as president? No way.Can anyone imagine Chafee as president? No way.
And:And:
Putin is not feeling too nervous or scared. #DemDebatePutin is not feeling too nervous or scared. #DemDebate
It is not clear why Trump would want Putin to feel nervous or scared, given that he seems to be courting his friendship: he told CBS on Sunday that he’d “get along very well” with the president of Russia.It is not clear why Trump would want Putin to feel nervous or scared, given that he seems to be courting his friendship: he told CBS on Sunday that he’d “get along very well” with the president of Russia.
2.40am BST02:40 9.40pm ET02:40
The Democrats have revisited Iraq. Now Sanders is talking about why he did not support the war in Vietnam. If they get back to 1812, look out.The Democrats have revisited Iraq. Now Sanders is talking about why he did not support the war in Vietnam. If they get back to 1812, look out.
2.39am BST02:39 9.39pm ET02:39
On to Benghazi.On to Benghazi.
O’Malley offers another gentle critique. Then Webb adds some mucle:O’Malley offers another gentle critique. Then Webb adds some mucle:
It was not a wise thing to do, and if people think it was a wise thing to do, try to get to the Tripoli airport today. You can’t do it,” Webb says.It was not a wise thing to do, and if people think it was a wise thing to do, try to get to the Tripoli airport today. You can’t do it,” Webb says.
Cooper asks Webb whether Sanders, a conscientious objector standing next to him, could be a commander in chief.Cooper asks Webb whether Sanders, a conscientious objector standing next to him, could be a commander in chief.
Webb replies:Webb replies:
Everybody makes their decisions... and long as they go through the legal process that our country requires, I respect that.Everybody makes their decisions... and long as they go through the legal process that our country requires, I respect that.
2.36am BST02:36 9.36pm ET02:36
Clinton is now defending the air war in Libya that preceded the country’s crumbling. She said that Americans must remember that “our closest allies in Europe were burning up the phone lines begging us to stop what” they thought would be a genocide.Clinton is now defending the air war in Libya that preceded the country’s crumbling. She said that Americans must remember that “our closest allies in Europe were burning up the phone lines begging us to stop what” they thought would be a genocide.
She said the US air war was “smart power at its best,” adding that the idea was that “the United States will not lead this.”She said the US air war was “smart power at its best,” adding that the idea was that “the United States will not lead this.”
Clinton: We did not put one single American soldier on the ground in Libya.Clinton: We did not put one single American soldier on the ground in Libya.
Cooper: American citizens did lose their lives in Benghazi.Cooper: American citizens did lose their lives in Benghazi.
Clinton: I’ll get to that.Clinton: I’ll get to that.
Updated at 2.38am BST Updated at 9.38pm ET
2.34am BST02:34 9.34pm ET02:34
Webb is now saying his piece. Cooper says he’s gone over his time. Webb says that Cooper has let a lot of people gone over their time. They waste time arguing about it.Webb is now saying his piece. Cooper says he’s gone over his time. Webb says that Cooper has let a lot of people gone over their time. They waste time arguing about it.
Sanders is up.Sanders is up.
“I think that Mr Putin is going to regret what he is doing,” he says.“I think that Mr Putin is going to regret what he is doing,” he says.
I think he is already regretting what he did in Crimea and what he’s doing in Ukraine... I think that when Russian people get killed in Syria, I think the Russian people are going to send him a message.I think he is already regretting what he did in Crimea and what he’s doing in Ukraine... I think that when Russian people get killed in Syria, I think the Russian people are going to send him a message.
2.33am BST02:33 9.33pm ET02:33
Nicole SandlerNicole Sandler
From radio host Nicole Sandler:From radio host Nicole Sandler:
Am I the only one who sees Anderson Cooper going after Bernie Sanders with guns blazing (no pun intended)? From the first question about Sanders being a socialist, to the accusatory tone of the questions about guns, Cooper has also encouraged the other candidates to go on the offense. Bias noted.Am I the only one who sees Anderson Cooper going after Bernie Sanders with guns blazing (no pun intended)? From the first question about Sanders being a socialist, to the accusatory tone of the questions about guns, Cooper has also encouraged the other candidates to go on the offense. Bias noted.
2.33am BST02:33 9.33pm ET02:33
Webb tries to get in the debate. “I’ve been trying to get in this conversation for about 10 minutes,” he says.Webb tries to get in the debate. “I’ve been trying to get in this conversation for about 10 minutes,” he says.
Nope. Cooper goes to Clinton.Nope. Cooper goes to Clinton.
“I have to say I was very pleased when Governor O’Malley endorsed me for president in 2008,” she smiles, turning his gentle criticism.“I have to say I was very pleased when Governor O’Malley endorsed me for president in 2008,” she smiles, turning his gentle criticism.
Then she makes some basic distinctions about what’s happening in the Middle East:Then she makes some basic distinctions about what’s happening in the Middle East:
Let me say, we are already flying in Syria just as we are in Iraq. The president has made a very tough decision.Let me say, we are already flying in Syria just as we are in Iraq. The president has made a very tough decision.
I’m trying to figure out what leverage we have to get Russia to the table. Diplomacy is not about a perfect solution, it’s about balancing risk.I’m trying to figure out what leverage we have to get Russia to the table. Diplomacy is not about a perfect solution, it’s about balancing risk.
She’s bulldozing them on foreign policy, in the eyes of some bloggers.She’s bulldozing them on foreign policy, in the eyes of some bloggers.
2.30am BST02:30 9.30pm ET02:30
The Democrats are revisiting the Iraq war decision. Clinton is the only one onstage who supported the war.The Democrats are revisiting the Iraq war decision. Clinton is the only one onstage who supported the war.
“Leading us into Iraq under false pretenses and telling us as a people that there were WMDs there is one of the worst blunders in modern American history,” O’Malley says.“Leading us into Iraq under false pretenses and telling us as a people that there were WMDs there is one of the worst blunders in modern American history,” O’Malley says.
He says he opposes a no-fly zone for Syria.He says he opposes a no-fly zone for Syria.
Then he says “Assad’s invasion of Syria will be seen as a blunder,” meaning Putin.Then he says “Assad’s invasion of Syria will be seen as a blunder,” meaning Putin.
2.28am BST02:28 9.28pm ET02:28
Clinton is showing some muscle on foreign policy. Sanders and Chafee sound mealy-mouthed next to her.Clinton is showing some muscle on foreign policy. Sanders and Chafee sound mealy-mouthed next to her.
Bash asks Sanders under what circumstances he would use force. He ignores the question and says Clinton is talking about a no-fly zone in Syria, “which I think is very dangerous, could lead to real problems.”Bash asks Sanders under what circumstances he would use force. He ignores the question and says Clinton is talking about a no-fly zone in Syria, “which I think is very dangerous, could lead to real problems.”
He says when he voted against the Iraq invasion, “I say without any joy in my heart, that much of what I thought would happen about the destabilization in fact did happen.”He says when he voted against the Iraq invasion, “I say without any joy in my heart, that much of what I thought would happen about the destabilization in fact did happen.”
2.27am BST02:27 9.27pm ET02:27
Jeb LundJeb Lund
Sanders is getting bad reviews for that gun control moment across the Twitter machine, which saw an easy leftie win for Clinton:Sanders is getting bad reviews for that gun control moment across the Twitter machine, which saw an easy leftie win for Clinton:
Wow, Hillary Clinton is really trying to bludgeon the shit out of Sanders on guns. #demdebateWow, Hillary Clinton is really trying to bludgeon the shit out of Sanders on guns. #demdebate
That from a former Scott Walker advisor. Why the, uh, assault?That from a former Scott Walker advisor. Why the, uh, assault?
Guns is basically the only issue Clinton can whale on Sanders from the left. Of course she's going to go all in on it.Guns is basically the only issue Clinton can whale on Sanders from the left. Of course she's going to go all in on it.
Here’s why Sanders’ defense may not have worked:Here’s why Sanders’ defense may not have worked:
Problem w/ Sanders' "I'm from a rural state" defense on guns: liberal senators don't stop from taking on problems elsewhere on other issues.Problem w/ Sanders' "I'm from a rural state" defense on guns: liberal senators don't stop from taking on problems elsewhere on other issues.
Bernie plays the "I come from a rural state" line. Won't wash with most urban Democrats #DemDebateBernie plays the "I come from a rural state" line. Won't wash with most urban Democrats #DemDebate
O’Malley piled in, too.O’Malley piled in, too.
And now O’Malley is hitting Sanders on guns. #DemDebateAnd now O’Malley is hitting Sanders on guns. #DemDebate
Here’s a quick take from Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund, live in Tampa, Florida:Here’s a quick take from Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund, live in Tampa, Florida:
Aside from certain identity politics points, the gun control issue is the one on which Hillary Clinton can really score off Bernie Sanders, and she just pulled into that policy gap with the engine roaring.Aside from certain identity politics points, the gun control issue is the one on which Hillary Clinton can really score off Bernie Sanders, and she just pulled into that policy gap with the engine roaring.
If she’s going to be boxed out of the left position on every other issue, hammering Sanders for seeming politically opportunistic on guns to pander to rural voters is her best chance to puncture the ‘Bernie the Principled’ image. I don’t know whether she looked amped up, per se, but there was definitely a different gear there for her.If she’s going to be boxed out of the left position on every other issue, hammering Sanders for seeming politically opportunistic on guns to pander to rural voters is her best chance to puncture the ‘Bernie the Principled’ image. I don’t know whether she looked amped up, per se, but there was definitely a different gear there for her.
You can tell, too, that O’Malley had scoped out this opportunity to, because he immediately leapt into the fray on this point, too, and it was the first time tonight that he actually displayed any energy (putting out a finger, then pulling back, squaring his shoulders).You can tell, too, that O’Malley had scoped out this opportunity to, because he immediately leapt into the fray on this point, too, and it was the first time tonight that he actually displayed any energy (putting out a finger, then pulling back, squaring his shoulders).
2.25am BST02:25 9.25pm ET02:25
Ben JacobsBen Jacobs
Hillary Clinton took a shot at Bernie Sanders’s self-proclaimed democratic socialism early in the debate Tuesday night, Ben Jacobs writes:Hillary Clinton took a shot at Bernie Sanders’s self-proclaimed democratic socialism early in the debate Tuesday night, Ben Jacobs writes:
After Sanders was asked about whether a socialist could be elected president, Clinton jumped in to go after Sanders. She said: “We are not Denmark” and said that the United States would make a grave mistake if it abandoned capitalism.After Sanders was asked about whether a socialist could be elected president, Clinton jumped in to go after Sanders. She said: “We are not Denmark” and said that the United States would make a grave mistake if it abandoned capitalism.
Sanders then pushed back, noting his support for small and medium sized businesses.Sanders then pushed back, noting his support for small and medium sized businesses.
Clinton was the second frontrunner to attack Sanders’s ideology in the past days. In an interview with the Guardian on Monday, Donald Trump said the Vermont senator is an “admitted socialist. Some people think he’s even worse than that. He’s the next step.”Clinton was the second frontrunner to attack Sanders’s ideology in the past days. In an interview with the Guardian on Monday, Donald Trump said the Vermont senator is an “admitted socialist. Some people think he’s even worse than that. He’s the next step.”
Here’s a video: Updated at 6.28am ET
Updated at 2.29am BST 9.24pm ET02:24
2.24am BST02:24
Sanders calls Syria a quagmire and says he would not support boots on the ground.Sanders calls Syria a quagmire and says he would not support boots on the ground.
“Nobody does,” Clinton says. “Nobody does.”“Nobody does,” Clinton says. “Nobody does.”
2.24am BST02:24 9.24pm ET02:24
On to foreign policy, and a question for Clinton about her “reset with Russia”.On to foreign policy, and a question for Clinton about her “reset with Russia”.
Clinton said the reset was appropriate before Putin returned to the presidency, but that the situation had changed with his return.Clinton said the reset was appropriate before Putin returned to the presidency, but that the situation had changed with his return.
“We got the nuclear arms deal, we got the ability to bring arms to our soldiers in Afghanistan,” she says, on the brief interim period when Dmitry Medvedev was president.“We got the nuclear arms deal, we got the ability to bring arms to our soldiers in Afghanistan,” she says, on the brief interim period when Dmitry Medvedev was president.
Clinton says: “We have to stand up to his bullying ... in Syria, to make it clear that they have to be part of the solution to end that conflict.”Clinton says: “We have to stand up to his bullying ... in Syria, to make it clear that they have to be part of the solution to end that conflict.”
Updated at 2.25am BST Updated at 9.25pm ET
2.21am BST02:21 9.21pm ET02:21
Hillary Clinton unveils gun control plan: ‘How many have to die?’ – videoHillary Clinton unveils gun control plan: ‘How many have to die?’ – video
2.21am BST02:21 Updated at 6.23am ET
2.21am BST02:21 9.21pm ET02:21
9.21pm ET02:21
O’Malley talks about passing comprehensive guns legislation as governor of Maryland, where he signed some of the country’s most restrictive gun laws.O’Malley talks about passing comprehensive guns legislation as governor of Maryland, where he signed some of the country’s most restrictive gun laws.
He says that its being hard is no excuse not to do it. Then he too attacks Sanders.He says that its being hard is no excuse not to do it. Then he too attacks Sanders.
O’Malley said the senator’s being from a rural state did not clear him for not supporting tougher gun laws. “We did it by leading with principles, not by pandering to the NRA,” he says of gun control.O’Malley said the senator’s being from a rural state did not clear him for not supporting tougher gun laws. “We did it by leading with principles, not by pandering to the NRA,” he says of gun control.
“You have not been in the US Congress, you ought to check it out,” Sanders replies, of the difficulty of passing gun legislation.“You have not been in the US Congress, you ought to check it out,” Sanders replies, of the difficulty of passing gun legislation.
Then Webb chimes in.Then Webb chimes in.
Chaser: http://t.co/sI3HDJkEcG (reminder: Senators wearing pins skip the metal detectors)Chaser: http://t.co/sI3HDJkEcG (reminder: Senators wearing pins skip the metal detectors)
2.16am BST02:16 9.16pm ET02:16
Clinton says Sanders is not tough enough on gunsClinton says Sanders is not tough enough on guns
Cooper hits Sanders with a guns question. Sanders did not support the Brady handguns bill and has supported legislation allowing people to carry guns on Amtrak trains.Cooper hits Sanders with a guns question. Sanders did not support the Brady handguns bill and has supported legislation allowing people to carry guns on Amtrak trains.
Do you want to shield gun companies from lawsuits, Cooper asks, referring to repeated Sanders votes against the Brady bill.Do you want to shield gun companies from lawsuits, Cooper asks, referring to repeated Sanders votes against the Brady bill.
Sanders defends his record. “I told the gun owners of the state of Vermont ... that I supported a ban on assault weapons.”Sanders defends his record. “I told the gun owners of the state of Vermont ... that I supported a ban on assault weapons.”
Q for Clinton: Is Bernie Sanders tough enough on guns?Q for Clinton: Is Bernie Sanders tough enough on guns?
Her answer is powerful. She hits him hard.Her answer is powerful. She hits him hard.
“No, not at all,” she says. “It’s time our country stood up to the NRA.”“No, not at all,” she says. “It’s time our country stood up to the NRA.”
Sanders’s riposte:Sanders’s riposte:
As a senator from a rural state, I can tell secretary Clinton that all the shouting in the world ... is not going to keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have guns.As a senator from a rural state, I can tell secretary Clinton that all the shouting in the world ... is not going to keep guns out of the hands of people who should not have guns.
Updated at 2.18am BST Updated at 9.18pm ET
2.13am BST02:13 9.13pm ET02:13
Cooper asks Webb about having criticized affirmative action. Webb says he was a defender of African-American communities in his time in the Senate in Virginia and that he had worked on behalf of equality not exclusion.Cooper asks Webb about having criticized affirmative action. Webb says he was a defender of African-American communities in his time in the Senate in Virginia and that he had worked on behalf of equality not exclusion.
2.12am BST02:12 9.12pm ET02:12
Looks like someone didn’t get in the hall ...Looks like someone didn’t get in the hall ...
What happens in Vegas...is I watch @HillaryClinton prove she's the most qualified candidate for POTUS. #ImWithHer pic.twitter.com/ax1d56WhwtWhat happens in Vegas...is I watch @HillaryClinton prove she's the most qualified candidate for POTUS. #ImWithHer pic.twitter.com/ax1d56Whwt
2.12am BST02:12 9.12pm ET02:12
Cooper turns to O’Malley. He pushes him on the unrest in Baltimore, where O’Malley was mayor, asserting that the candidate had failed to secure prosperity for the city.Cooper turns to O’Malley. He pushes him on the unrest in Baltimore, where O’Malley was mayor, asserting that the candidate had failed to secure prosperity for the city.
O’Malley gives a steady answer about the difficulties the city faced as he came to office.O’Malley gives a steady answer about the difficulties the city faced as he came to office.
Cooper presses him on his record of tens of thousands arrests in the city, a record rate nationally, during O’Malley’s tenure.Cooper presses him on his record of tens of thousands arrests in the city, a record rate nationally, during O’Malley’s tenure.
O’Malley says Cooper is distorting the facts.O’Malley says Cooper is distorting the facts.
Arrests peaked in 2003 Anderson, but they declined every year after that, as we restored peace in our poorer neighborhoods.Arrests peaked in 2003 Anderson, but they declined every year after that, as we restored peace in our poorer neighborhoods.
Related: Martin O'Malley battles to keep campaign on course after Baltimore riotsRelated: Martin O'Malley battles to keep campaign on course after Baltimore riots
Updated at 2.16am BST Updated at 9.16pm ET
2.09am BST02:09 9.09pm ET02:09
Cooper challenges Chafee for his protean party identity.Cooper challenges Chafee for his protean party identity.
“Anderson, you’re looking at a block of granite when it comes to the issues...” he says. “I was a liberal Republican, then I was an independent, and now I’m a Democrat.”“Anderson, you’re looking at a block of granite when it comes to the issues...” he says. “I was a liberal Republican, then I was an independent, and now I’m a Democrat.”
A block of granite.A block of granite.
You're looking at a block of granite pic.twitter.com/4X6qoWhlFdYou're looking at a block of granite pic.twitter.com/4X6qoWhlFd
Updated at 2.10am BST Updated at 9.10pm ET
2.08am BST02:08 9.08pm ET02:08
Clinton jumps in.Clinton jumps in.
“It’s our job to rein in the excesses of capitalism,” she says, “...but we would be making a grave mistake to turn our backs about what built the greatest middle class in the world.”“It’s our job to rein in the excesses of capitalism,” she says, “...but we would be making a grave mistake to turn our backs about what built the greatest middle class in the world.”
Applause for that line, but even more applause when Sanders replies that capitalism is broken when the vast share of wealth goes to the top 1%.Applause for that line, but even more applause when Sanders replies that capitalism is broken when the vast share of wealth goes to the top 1%.
That’s just what he was supposed to say.That’s just what he was supposed to say.
2.06am BST02:06 9.06pm ET02:06
Question for Sanders: You say you’re a socialist. Can you be elected?Question for Sanders: You say you’re a socialist. Can you be elected?
Sanders says “we can win” and winds into an answer that ends in Denmark and Sweden.Sanders says “we can win” and winds into an answer that ends in Denmark and Sweden.
Cooper presses Sanders, saying the attack ads against him write themselves: “You supported the Sandinistas, you honeymooned in the Soviet Union.”Cooper presses Sanders, saying the attack ads against him write themselves: “You supported the Sandinistas, you honeymooned in the Soviet Union.”
“Do I consider myself part of the casino capitalist process? Sanders replies. “No, I don’t.”“Do I consider myself part of the casino capitalist process? Sanders replies. “No, I don’t.”
Updated at 2.09am BST Updated at 9.09pm ET
2.03am BST02:03 9.03pm ET02:03
First question is for Clinton. Will you say anything to get elected? That’s literally the question.First question is for Clinton. Will you say anything to get elected? That’s literally the question.
She delivers an extremely prepared answer as to how, upon reviewing the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the deal had flaws that meant she could no longer support it despite the dozens of times she had spoken out in its favor.She delivers an extremely prepared answer as to how, upon reviewing the Trans-Pacific Partnership, the deal had flaws that meant she could no longer support it despite the dozens of times she had spoken out in its favor.
Follow-up question: Just for the record, are you a progressive, or a moderate?Follow-up question: Just for the record, are you a progressive, or a moderate?
Clinton’s answer is self-assured and rhetorically strong, and draws applause:Clinton’s answer is self-assured and rhetorically strong, and draws applause:
I’m a progressive, but I’m a progressive who likes to get things done. And I’ve stood my ground, and I’ve found common ground.I’m a progressive, but I’m a progressive who likes to get things done. And I’ve stood my ground, and I’ve found common ground.
Updated at 2.04am BST Updated at 9.04pm ET
2.01am BST02:01 9.01pm ET02:01
Adam GabbattAdam Gabbatt
Republican frontrunner Donald Trump has promised to live-tweet the Democratic debate – what fun! – and Adam Gabbatt will be following his commentary. So far he has been unhappy with the commercials, and has promised to “shoot straight”.Republican frontrunner Donald Trump has promised to live-tweet the Democratic debate – what fun! – and Adam Gabbatt will be following his commentary. So far he has been unhappy with the commercials, and has promised to “shoot straight”.
He’ll also be calling it as he sees it, pulling no punches, shooting from the hip, telling it as it is, etc.He’ll also be calling it as he sees it, pulling no punches, shooting from the hip, telling it as it is, etc.
We will all have fun and hopefully learn something tonight. I will shoot straight and call it as I see it, both the good and the bad. Enjoy!We will all have fun and hopefully learn something tonight. I will shoot straight and call it as I see it, both the good and the bad. Enjoy!
2.01am BST02:01 9.01pm ET02:01
Hillary Clinton is up. Also in blue, over white, a filmic negative of O’Malley.Hillary Clinton is up. Also in blue, over white, a filmic negative of O’Malley.
She starts out rather generically, talking about how she wants “to find the ways for each child to live up to his or her god-Given potential.”She starts out rather generically, talking about how she wants “to find the ways for each child to live up to his or her god-Given potential.”
Then she catches some speed:Then she catches some speed:
At the center of my campaign is how we’re going to raise wages. Yes raise the minimum wage, but we’re going to have to do so much more, including finding ways for how to help companies share profits.At the center of my campaign is how we’re going to raise wages. Yes raise the minimum wage, but we’re going to have to do so much more, including finding ways for how to help companies share profits.
She calls for the “wealthy paying their fair share” of taxes, and hits this first applause line:She calls for the “wealthy paying their fair share” of taxes, and hits this first applause line:
“I believe in equal pay for equal work for women, but I also think it’s about time we had paid family leave” and caught up with the rest of the world.“I believe in equal pay for equal work for women, but I also think it’s about time we had paid family leave” and caught up with the rest of the world.
Also: “climate change”. (That’s three.)Also: “climate change”. (That’s three.)
Updated at 2.07am BST Updated at 9.07pm ET
1.57am BST01:57 8.57pm ET01:57
Bernie Sanders is up.Bernie Sanders is up.
I think most Americans understand that our country today faces a series of unprecedented crises.I think most Americans understand that our country today faces a series of unprecedented crises.
He lists the flight of wealth to the 1%, the “unbelievable sums of money” that followed Citizens United, the reality of climate change (that’s two of those tonight) caused by human activity, the number of people in jail, the disproportionate youth unemployment among minorities.He lists the flight of wealth to the 1%, the “unbelievable sums of money” that followed Citizens United, the reality of climate change (that’s two of those tonight) caused by human activity, the number of people in jail, the disproportionate youth unemployment among minorities.
Sanders wins applause with this line:Sanders wins applause with this line:
Maybe, just maybe, we should be putting more money into education and jobs for our kids.Maybe, just maybe, we should be putting more money into education and jobs for our kids.
They like him!They like him!
Updated at 2.06am BST Updated at 9.06pm ET
1.54am BST01:54 8.54pm ET01:54
Martin O’Malley up now. Wins most photogenic hands-down. Blue tie matches set nicely.Martin O’Malley up now. Wins most photogenic hands-down. Blue tie matches set nicely.
“After 15 years of executive experience, I have learned how to be a better leader,” he says. “I have learned how to get things done because I am very clear about my principles.”“After 15 years of executive experience, I have learned how to be a better leader,” he says. “I have learned how to get things done because I am very clear about my principles.”
We elected a president, not a magician, and there is urgent work that needs to be done right now... For there is a deep injustice, an economic injustice that threatens to tear our country apart.We elected a president, not a magician, and there is urgent work that needs to be done right now... For there is a deep injustice, an economic injustice that threatens to tear our country apart.
Also: we’ll be keeping track of how many times we hear the words “climate change” tonight. We’re at one and counting.Also: we’ll be keeping track of how many times we hear the words “climate change” tonight. We’re at one and counting.
Updated at 1.55am BST Updated at 8.55pm ET
1.52am BST01:52 8.52pm ET01:52
Jim Webb is next. He sounds like a bad lip reading of himself. But what he’s talking about is no joke.Jim Webb is next. He sounds like a bad lip reading of himself. But what he’s talking about is no joke.
“In government service, I fought and bled for the country, in Vietnam, as a marine,” he says.“In government service, I fought and bled for the country, in Vietnam, as a marine,” he says.
In the Senate, I spoke about economic fairness and social justice from day one...In the Senate, I spoke about economic fairness and social justice from day one...
I brought criminal justice reform out of the shadows and into the discussion.I brought criminal justice reform out of the shadows and into the discussion.
Then Webb goes to introduce his five children and seems almost to forget the name of his second daughter. Oops.Then Webb goes to introduce his five children and seems almost to forget the name of his second daughter. Oops.
@Edpilkington touch & go with middle child, Julia@Edpilkington touch & go with middle child, Julia
Updated at 2.03am BST Updated at 9.03pm ET
1.49am BST01:49 8.49pm ET01:49
The format tonight is one minute to answer questions per candidate and 30 seconds for follow-ups plus a chance at rebuttal if they’re mentioned by name by somebody else.The format tonight is one minute to answer questions per candidate and 30 seconds for follow-ups plus a chance at rebuttal if they’re mentioned by name by somebody else.
Chafee begins his opening statement. For some reason we typed “opining”. He’s smiling and talking about his record as a Rhode Island mayor, senator and governor.Chafee begins his opening statement. For some reason we typed “opining”. He’s smiling and talking about his record as a Rhode Island mayor, senator and governor.
“As governor, I came in in the depths of the recession, and we turned my state around,” he says.“As governor, I came in in the depths of the recession, and we turned my state around,” he says.
Then:Then:
I’m very proud that in my almost thirty years of public service, I’ve had no scandals.I’m very proud that in my almost thirty years of public service, I’ve had no scandals.
To which my colleague Ben Jacobs spots this!To which my colleague Ben Jacobs spots this!
A reminder: Lincoln Chafee snuck into Canada after college to work as a blacksmith for a guy who got convicted of selling horsemeat as beef.A reminder: Lincoln Chafee snuck into Canada after college to work as a blacksmith for a guy who got convicted of selling horsemeat as beef.
Updated at 1.51am BST Updated at 8.51pm ET
1.47am BST01:47 8.47pm ET01:47
Last chance to mess around before the extremely serious business of the debate starts.Last chance to mess around before the extremely serious business of the debate starts.
May we suggest this extremely diverting Super Mario Bros.-style video game produced by IJ?May we suggest this extremely diverting Super Mario Bros.-style video game produced by IJ?
The action figure is Clinton and she has to wipe out the other candidates and collect coins.The action figure is Clinton and she has to wipe out the other candidates and collect coins.
Wait--they’re back!Wait--they’re back!
1.43am BST01:43 8.43pm ET01:43
Didn’t sound like she hit every note to us but how many Grammys have you won?Didn’t sound like she hit every note to us but how many Grammys have you won?
And the first question is for -- oh wait. Commercial break.And the first question is for -- oh wait. Commercial break.
1.42am BST01:42 8.42pm ET01:42
And here they are...And here they are...
Hillary Clinton, surrounded by white men in dark suits. #demdebate pic.twitter.com/L7NJDV6Fh5Hillary Clinton, surrounded by white men in dark suits. #demdebate pic.twitter.com/L7NJDV6Fh5
Quite the contrast to 2008 ...Quite the contrast to 2008 ...
... and just the other day:... and just the other day:
Still blue, though.Still blue, though.
Updated at 1.45am BST Updated at 8.45pm ET
1.42am BST01:42 8.42pm ET01:42
Up to sing the national anthem: nine-time Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow!Up to sing the national anthem: nine-time Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Sheryl Crow!
This is the worst Tuesday Night Music Club that Sheryl Crow has ever been a member ofThis is the worst Tuesday Night Music Club that Sheryl Crow has ever been a member of
Updated at 1.44am BST Updated at 8.44pm ET
1.40am BST01:40 8.40pm ET01:40
It’s starting now. Tonight’s moderators are Anderson Cooper, Don Lemon, Dana Bash and Juan Carlos Lopez.It’s starting now. Tonight’s moderators are Anderson Cooper, Don Lemon, Dana Bash and Juan Carlos Lopez.
Cooper is introducing the candidates, who are taking the stage to applause.Cooper is introducing the candidates, who are taking the stage to applause.
1.36am BST01:36 8.36pm ET01:36
Put that thing down, Martin, it’s time to do this.Put that thing down, Martin, it’s time to do this.
A little pre-debate warmup. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/FWFFp1QYDJA little pre-debate warmup. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/FWFFp1QYDJ
Updated at 1.37am BST Updated at 8.37pm ET
1.34am BST01:34 8.34pm ET01:34
Trump’s in place and his promised debate-long Twitter storm has begun. He sounds upbeat:Trump’s in place and his promised debate-long Twitter storm has begun. He sounds upbeat:
We will all have fun and hopefully learn something tonight. I will shoot straight and call it as I see it, both the good and the bad. Enjoy!We will all have fun and hopefully learn something tonight. I will shoot straight and call it as I see it, both the good and the bad. Enjoy!
Former Arkansas governor and current Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, meanwhile, is getting his troll on:Former Arkansas governor and current Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, meanwhile, is getting his troll on:
.@RealDonaldTrump - Any last-minute hairstyle advice for @BernieSanders before he takes the stage @ #DemDebate? #FeelTheBern #ImWithHuck.@RealDonaldTrump - Any last-minute hairstyle advice for @BernieSanders before he takes the stage @ #DemDebate? #FeelTheBern #ImWithHuck
Speaking of trolling, here’s video of Hillary Clinton campaigning earlier today outside one of Trump’s Las Vegas hotels: Speaking of trolling, here’s a video of Hillary Clinton campaigning earlier today outside one of Trump’s Las Vegas hotels.
1.30am BST01:30 Updated at 5.19am ET
8.30pm ET01:30
A potentially significant note for some of our readers who do not live in the USA:A potentially significant note for some of our readers who do not live in the USA:
That CNN live stream won’t work for you, apparently. Just flip on CNNI, he says.That CNN live stream won’t work for you, apparently. Just flip on CNNI, he says.
@nycsouthpaw live stream only works in the U.S. the debate is live on @CNNI around the world@nycsouthpaw live stream only works in the U.S. the debate is live on @CNNI around the world
Updated at 1.34am BST Updated at 8.34pm ET
1.27am BST01:27 8.27pm ET01:27
Can Sanders upstage Clinton? It's debate timeCan Sanders upstage Clinton? It's debate time
We’re moments away now from the start of the first Democratic presidential debate. We thank you for joining us – there will be jokes – and we encourage you to pitch in please below the line.We’re moments away now from the start of the first Democratic presidential debate. We thank you for joining us – there will be jokes – and we encourage you to pitch in please below the line.
To review, the Guardian’s Sabrina Siddiqui (@sabrinasiddiqui) and Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) are in Las Vegas and a whole beautiful archipelago of journalistic talent is spread east from there.To review, the Guardian’s Sabrina Siddiqui (@sabrinasiddiqui) and Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) are in Las Vegas and a whole beautiful archipelago of journalistic talent is spread east from there.
The question of the night has to be: Can Bernie Sanders knock Clinton off her perch as the front-runner and still-perceived shoe-in for the Democratic nomination? Her favorables among Democrats are through the roof and, apart from in a few (inconveniently timed) states, her lead in the polls is daunting ... bordering on frightful.The question of the night has to be: Can Bernie Sanders knock Clinton off her perch as the front-runner and still-perceived shoe-in for the Democratic nomination? Her favorables among Democrats are through the roof and, apart from in a few (inconveniently timed) states, her lead in the polls is daunting ... bordering on frightful.
Sanders could confront Clinton on the continuity of her commitment to the working class, on her record as a New York senator during the Wall Street bailout or on a different angle of the basic case he has been tirelessly making for 40 years on behalf of lower-income Americans. There could also be a showdown on the Keystone XL pipeline, or the TPP trade deal, or gun control – and certainly that email scandal.Sanders could confront Clinton on the continuity of her commitment to the working class, on her record as a New York senator during the Wall Street bailout or on a different angle of the basic case he has been tirelessly making for 40 years on behalf of lower-income Americans. There could also be a showdown on the Keystone XL pipeline, or the TPP trade deal, or gun control – and certainly that email scandal.
Martin O’Malley, Jim Webb or Lincoln Chafee may score an unexpected point or turn in a performance with the kind of surprising charisma that changes enough voters’ minds to change the face of the race.Martin O’Malley, Jim Webb or Lincoln Chafee may score an unexpected point or turn in a performance with the kind of surprising charisma that changes enough voters’ minds to change the face of the race.
Or Clinton may remind voters and viewers why she is the frontrunner, why she still thrives after three decades of intense scrutiny in the public eye, why the party and big donors are behind her and why she still has the faith of a huge number of average Americans. Hillary Clinton could win this, too, you know.Or Clinton may remind voters and viewers why she is the frontrunner, why she still thrives after three decades of intense scrutiny in the public eye, why the party and big donors are behind her and why she still has the faith of a huge number of average Americans. Hillary Clinton could win this, too, you know.
How will it turn out? Watch with us! The gang’s all here.How will it turn out? Watch with us! The gang’s all here.
1.23am BST01:23 8.23pm ET01:23
Adam GabbattAdam Gabbatt
The excitement is mounting, but somehow Adam Gabbatt has still found time to come up with a number of puns about the Democratic candidates, along with situations in which they might come in handy.The excitement is mounting, but somehow Adam Gabbatt has still found time to come up with a number of puns about the Democratic candidates, along with situations in which they might come in handy.
(Adam is from Britain, where Chafee – a common first name for girls – is pronounced to rhyme with daffy.)(Adam is from Britain, where Chafee – a common first name for girls – is pronounced to rhyme with daffy.)
Updated at 1.26am BST Updated at 8.26pm ET
1.09am BST01:09 8.09pm ET01:09
Suzanne GoldenbergSuzanne Goldenberg
Democratic voters think climate change is a bigger threat than Isis – so there is virtually no way candidates will leave the stage in Las Vegas tonight without talking about the global challenge, writes Guardian US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg (@suzyji):Democratic voters think climate change is a bigger threat than Isis – so there is virtually no way candidates will leave the stage in Las Vegas tonight without talking about the global challenge, writes Guardian US environment correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg (@suzyji):
Hillary Clinton in particular can expect a question about the Keystone XL pipeline.Hillary Clinton in particular can expect a question about the Keystone XL pipeline.
Unlike the Republican debates which gave very short shrift to climate change – with one token question in the third hour of the CNN debate – the Democratic candidates have been vying with one another to show how far they would go to fight global warming.Unlike the Republican debates which gave very short shrift to climate change – with one token question in the third hour of the CNN debate – the Democratic candidates have been vying with one another to show how far they would go to fight global warming.
Campaigners therefore are hoping to use the Democratic debates to push the candidates to do more. On a conference call on Tuesday morning, Tom Steyer, the billionaire climate activist, and Jay Inslee and Jack Markell, respectively the Democratic governors of Washington and Delaware, teamed up to press the candidates to move beyond the usual slogans, and embed climate solutions in their economic policy.Campaigners therefore are hoping to use the Democratic debates to push the candidates to do more. On a conference call on Tuesday morning, Tom Steyer, the billionaire climate activist, and Jay Inslee and Jack Markell, respectively the Democratic governors of Washington and Delaware, teamed up to press the candidates to move beyond the usual slogans, and embed climate solutions in their economic policy.
“We don’t just want to hear about the threat of climate change but to learn about how candidates plan to solve it ... what those solutions will mean for them,” Inslee said. “Is it part of a compelling long-term vision for our country or is it just a footnote to the rest of the programme?”“We don’t just want to hear about the threat of climate change but to learn about how candidates plan to solve it ... what those solutions will mean for them,” Inslee said. “Is it part of a compelling long-term vision for our country or is it just a footnote to the rest of the programme?”
Steyer had an even sharper message. “It really is a question of being on the front foot, not just avoiding a mistake,” he said. “It’s not just not building the Keystone pipeline.”Steyer had an even sharper message. “It really is a question of being on the front foot, not just avoiding a mistake,” he said. “It’s not just not building the Keystone pipeline.”
The other key point for Inslee was the ability of candidates to craft a winning message around climate change for the 2016 elections.The other key point for Inslee was the ability of candidates to craft a winning message around climate change for the 2016 elections.
Party operatives and campaign groups think climate change could be a winning issue for Democrats in 2016. Climate denial – the default position of the Republican field barring Lindsey Graham – can easily be cast as extreme and anti-science.Party operatives and campaign groups think climate change could be a winning issue for Democrats in 2016. Climate denial – the default position of the Republican field barring Lindsey Graham – can easily be cast as extreme and anti-science.
The governor and others will be looking for conviction on climate change.The governor and others will be looking for conviction on climate change.
Clinton in this regard has been playing catch up. She was slow to take a position on the Keystone XL, declaring only last month that she was against the project. Bernie Sanders and Martin O’Malley are longtime opponents.Clinton in this regard has been playing catch up. She was slow to take a position on the Keystone XL, declaring only last month that she was against the project. Bernie Sanders and Martin O’Malley are longtime opponents.
Clinton also moved to catch up on Arctic drilling, coming out against Obama’s decision to allow Shell to hunt for oil in Arctic waters.Clinton also moved to catch up on Arctic drilling, coming out against Obama’s decision to allow Shell to hunt for oil in Arctic waters.
But Clinton also has John Podesta on her side – the man who helped push Obama’s climate action in the White House, and is widely seen as the guiding hand behind Clinton’s ambitious targets on solar power.But Clinton also has John Podesta on her side – the man who helped push Obama’s climate action in the White House, and is widely seen as the guiding hand behind Clinton’s ambitious targets on solar power.
1.07am BST01:07 8.07pm ET01:07
OK we’re taking a short break for pizza and we encourage you to do the same. In case you haven’t been following the live blog too closely:OK we’re taking a short break for pizza and we encourage you to do the same. In case you haven’t been following the live blog too closely:
The debate hasn’t started yet.The debate hasn’t started yet.
In the interest of supplying you with uninterrupted entertainment, as we supply our faces with pizza, here are a couple video specials we’ve produced recently.In the interest of supplying you with uninterrupted entertainment, as we supply our faces with pizza, here are a couple video specials we’ve produced recently.
One explores the evolution of Hillary Clinton’s explanations and apologies for having used private email during her time as secretary of state, and then being slow to characterize what that involved exactly, to the extent where now the FBI and a stack of ambitious Congressmen are involved.One explores the evolution of Hillary Clinton’s explanations and apologies for having used private email during her time as secretary of state, and then being slow to characterize what that involved exactly, to the extent where now the FBI and a stack of ambitious Congressmen are involved.
Hillary Clinton’s email scandal: the best of the apologies and non-apologies - videoHillary Clinton’s email scandal: the best of the apologies and non-apologies - video
If you liked that, you may equally enjoy If you liked that, you may equally enjoy Hillary Clinton’s flip flops: from same-sex marriage to TPP – video – you can read coverage related to that video here. We started work on a video of how Bernie Sanders has changed his mind but it’s shaping up as less of a montage and more of an SMPTE color bars screen.
Hillary Clinton’s flip flops: from same-sex marriage to TPP – video Here’s Sanders talking with Stephen Colbert about being a socialist though.
– you can read coverage related to that video here. We started work on a video of how Bernie Sanders has changed his mind but it’s shaping up as less of a montage and more of an SMPTE color bars screen. Updated at 5.18am ET
Here’s Sanders talking with Stephen Colbert about being a socialist though: 7.50pm ET00:50
Updated at 1.15am BST
12.50am BST00:50
No debate preview would be complete without a look at how the participants are preparing for the big moment.No debate preview would be complete without a look at how the participants are preparing for the big moment.
Let’s go first inside firebrand challenger Bernie Sanders’ playbook:Let’s go first inside firebrand challenger Bernie Sanders’ playbook:
Sanders team says he will "chill out" before the #DemDebate tonight, after a short walk through and AM briefings. @kasie reports for @MSNBCSanders team says he will "chill out" before the #DemDebate tonight, after a short walk through and AM briefings. @kasie reports for @MSNBC
That’s “chill out,” which familiars with the lexicon of American politics will recognize as meaning – huh?That’s “chill out,” which familiars with the lexicon of American politics will recognize as meaning – huh?
How, precisely, does Bernie Sanders chill out? https://t.co/QNtYUB7kkCHow, precisely, does Bernie Sanders chill out? https://t.co/QNtYUB7kkC
...? Maybe with the moon rock?...? Maybe with the moon rock?
Meanwhile Hillary Clinton plans “lite” debate prep, CNN’s Dan Merica reports...Meanwhile Hillary Clinton plans “lite” debate prep, CNN’s Dan Merica reports...
Clinton campaign chairman @johnpodesta says Clinton will likely have one more prep session before the actual debate, but it will be "lite."Clinton campaign chairman @johnpodesta says Clinton will likely have one more prep session before the actual debate, but it will be "lite."
... and Chafee is going for a walk...... and Chafee is going for a walk...
How is Chafee preparing for the debate? "He has taken some walks. He likes to walk," said his spox. "That gets him in the right mindset."How is Chafee preparing for the debate? "He has taken some walks. He likes to walk," said his spox. "That gets him in the right mindset."
...while O’Malley is apparently going to noodle around a bit on his guitar......while O’Malley is apparently going to noodle around a bit on his guitar...
Fun tidbit: Gov. Martin O'Malley is bringing his guitar to the debate, per a spokeswoman, and will have it in his green room.Fun tidbit: Gov. Martin O'Malley is bringing his guitar to the debate, per a spokeswoman, and will have it in his green room.
The Democrats are totally going to lose this year? Like McGovern style?The Democrats are totally going to lose this year? Like McGovern style?
Oh wait – sounds like Webb is going to beat something up. WhewOh wait – sounds like Webb is going to beat something up. Whew
Jim Webb on wether he is excited about the debate after his walk though: "I spent eight years as a boxer. So this is pretty similar."Jim Webb on wether he is excited about the debate after his walk though: "I spent eight years as a boxer. So this is pretty similar."
UPDATE dayum (h/t @kaylaepstein):UPDATE dayum (h/t @kaylaepstein):
Updated at 1.09am BST Updated at 8.09pm ET
12.39am BST00:39 7.39pm ET00:39
Ben JacobsBen Jacobs
We know, because he’s told us, what Donald Trump will be doing during the debate. But what about the rest of the Republican field?We know, because he’s told us, what Donald Trump will be doing during the debate. But what about the rest of the Republican field?
The soundtrack at the party we for some reason enjoy imagining that you are at may have slowed a notch from Kool to, say, Atlantic Starr, but Ben Jacobs is still shouting, and this time it’s about what GOP candidates have on tap tonight: “Some candidates have campaign events overlapping,” Ben shouts:The soundtrack at the party we for some reason enjoy imagining that you are at may have slowed a notch from Kool to, say, Atlantic Starr, but Ben Jacobs is still shouting, and this time it’s about what GOP candidates have on tap tonight: “Some candidates have campaign events overlapping,” Ben shouts:
Kentucky senator Rand Paul is holding an event at the University of Iowa which starts at 6:30 Central. However, a Paul spokesman told the Guardian that “we have an event overlap but he’ll watch parts and is expected to react on the livestream.” (Paul is livestreaming his entire day on the campaign trail on Periscope).Kentucky senator Rand Paul is holding an event at the University of Iowa which starts at 6:30 Central. However, a Paul spokesman told the Guardian that “we have an event overlap but he’ll watch parts and is expected to react on the livestream.” (Paul is livestreaming his entire day on the campaign trail on Periscope).
Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson and former senator Rick Santorum also have campaign events tonight but will try to watch what they can. A spokesman for Santorum told the Guardian that he would listen on the radio in the car between events.Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson and former senator Rick Santorum also have campaign events tonight but will try to watch what they can. A spokesman for Santorum told the Guardian that he would listen on the radio in the car between events.
But not all Republicans are watching. Florida senator Marco Rubio told Greta van Susteren on Fox News Monday that he likely won’t be watching, although he will likely “see the clips and the highlights.”But not all Republicans are watching. Florida senator Marco Rubio told Greta van Susteren on Fox News Monday that he likely won’t be watching, although he will likely “see the clips and the highlights.”
12.33am BST00:33 7.33pm ET00:33
Some people in the universe have noted that one significant figure in national Democratic politics to whom intensive speculation has been attached as to his designs or not on the White House, who is the sitting vice president with a ready-made army of potential supporters and donors – uh, he’s not in Las Vegas.Some people in the universe have noted that one significant figure in national Democratic politics to whom intensive speculation has been attached as to his designs or not on the White House, who is the sitting vice president with a ready-made army of potential supporters and donors – uh, he’s not in Las Vegas.
Is Joe Biden running for president? Not so far. But CNN thought there was enough of a chance that he would do so at the last minute that they prepared a “breakout podium” (that’s actually a lectern, to read or speak behind. You stand on podiums (podia?)).Is Joe Biden running for president? Not so far. But CNN thought there was enough of a chance that he would do so at the last minute that they prepared a “breakout podium” (that’s actually a lectern, to read or speak behind. You stand on podiums (podia?)).
In case of Biden break out podium number 6. Here it is folks. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/27B7ij3IEOIn case of Biden break out podium number 6. Here it is folks. #DemDebate pic.twitter.com/27B7ij3IEO
But the vice president will not be in the debate hall tonight. Instead he is literally hosting a high school reunion. Then he says he’ll watch from home. No word on whether he’ll follow the baseball. But let’s be honest: probably.But the vice president will not be in the debate hall tonight. Instead he is literally hosting a high school reunion. Then he says he’ll watch from home. No word on whether he’ll follow the baseball. But let’s be honest: probably.
The publication of the lectern pic does not sit well with some readers alongside the fact that Lawrence Lessig, the Harvard Professor who says he has reported raising more than $1m in his own Democratic presidential bid to get the dark money out of politics, has not been invited by CNN – because, they say, his poll numbers were too low (and Chafee and Webb and O’Malley on stage, that’s saying something).The publication of the lectern pic does not sit well with some readers alongside the fact that Lawrence Lessig, the Harvard Professor who says he has reported raising more than $1m in his own Democratic presidential bid to get the dark money out of politics, has not been invited by CNN – because, they say, his poll numbers were too low (and Chafee and Webb and O’Malley on stage, that’s saying something).
.@CNN You obviously have a spare podium. Why not #LetLessigDebate? Biden isn't coming. @Lessig2016 #FixDemocracyFirst #DemDebate.@CNN You obviously have a spare podium. Why not #LetLessigDebate? Biden isn't coming. @Lessig2016 #FixDemocracyFirst #DemDebate
12.24am BST00:24 7.24pm ET00:24
Here’s a strange piece of news to emerge on the verge of Clinton’s first big debate outing of 2016: the New Yorker has published, in full and for the first time, an Obama campaign memo from 2008 describing how to beat her.Here’s a strange piece of news to emerge on the verge of Clinton’s first big debate outing of 2016: the New Yorker has published, in full and for the first time, an Obama campaign memo from 2008 describing how to beat her.
The memo describes a plan to attack Clinton’s perceived vulnerability on character issues, after the brushes with indignity and untruth during the Bill Clinton administration and a lingering sense of impropriety and secrecy, if not outright scandal, during her years in the senate.The memo describes a plan to attack Clinton’s perceived vulnerability on character issues, after the brushes with indignity and untruth during the Bill Clinton administration and a lingering sense of impropriety and secrecy, if not outright scandal, during her years in the senate.
Here’s a grab of part of them memo. Click through for explication and related news coverage.Here’s a grab of part of them memo. Click through for explication and related news coverage.
Here's how the Obama team viewed the contrast between Obama and Hillary in 2007 http://t.co/CJbosO8gdf pic.twitter.com/Ab5o5W2ZydHere's how the Obama team viewed the contrast between Obama and Hillary in 2007 http://t.co/CJbosO8gdf pic.twitter.com/Ab5o5W2Zyd
It's almost as if there are Obama loyalists who don't like Hillary . . . . https://t.co/r6919ppyjGIt's almost as if there are Obama loyalists who don't like Hillary . . . . https://t.co/r6919ppyjG
12.17am BST00:17 7.17pm ET00:17
In case you’ve forgotten what Jim Webb, the Emmy-award winning journalist whose Fields of Fire Tom Wolfe called “the finest of the Vietnam novels”, looks like, CNN has a graphic, which handily places the candidates in the order in which they will appear onstage and links to the live stream site:In case you’ve forgotten what Jim Webb, the Emmy-award winning journalist whose Fields of Fire Tom Wolfe called “the finest of the Vietnam novels”, looks like, CNN has a graphic, which handily places the candidates in the order in which they will appear onstage and links to the live stream site:
All the ways to watch tonight's #DemDebate http://t.co/mBEMpquU8R pic.twitter.com/jWj1q1NUc2All the ways to watch tonight's #DemDebate http://t.co/mBEMpquU8R pic.twitter.com/jWj1q1NUc2
Updated at 12.20am BST Updated at 7.20pm ET
12.13am BST00:13 7.13pm ET00:13
At the request of many, and even though I expect it to be a very boring two hours, I will be covering the Democrat Debate live on twitter!At the request of many, and even though I expect it to be a very boring two hours, I will be covering the Democrat Debate live on twitter!
And yes, we’re aware of what we’re competing against. We know you have a choice of live debate coverage, and we want to thank you for choosing us!And yes, we’re aware of what we’re competing against. We know you have a choice of live debate coverage, and we want to thank you for choosing us!
Now pay us $10 for a beer and no we don’t take cash.Now pay us $10 for a beer and no we don’t take cash.
Not only are there other live blogs out there competing for your attention tonight – Game 4 of the Dodgers-Mets playoff series starts at 8.07pm, just early enough to be in full swing by the time the Democrats start talking.Not only are there other live blogs out there competing for your attention tonight – Game 4 of the Dodgers-Mets playoff series starts at 8.07pm, just early enough to be in full swing by the time the Democrats start talking.
It’ll be a night of channel surfing in the White House, the press secretary has announced:It’ll be a night of channel surfing in the White House, the press secretary has announced:
Wouldn't be surprised if the president catches part of the debate tonight, @PressSec says, but he's likely to "channel surf" over to #MLBWouldn't be surprised if the president catches part of the debate tonight, @PressSec says, but he's likely to "channel surf" over to #MLB
(Obama’s Cubs are on the verge of wrapping up their series against the Cardinals. It’s 6-4 in the bottom of the seventh.)(Obama’s Cubs are on the verge of wrapping up their series against the Cardinals. It’s 6-4 in the bottom of the seventh.)
Tonight's liveblog: "Nice attack by O'Malley... HOME RUN!!!!!!!!!... Cuse me, Sanders makes an interesting pt there about income inequality"Tonight's liveblog: "Nice attack by O'Malley... HOME RUN!!!!!!!!!... Cuse me, Sanders makes an interesting pt there about income inequality"
Updated at 12.13am BST Updated at 7.13pm ET
12.07am BST00:07 7.07pm ET00:07
Ben JacobsBen Jacobs
At that party you’re at, the Guardian’s Ben Jacobs is there too, and in case you can’t hear him shouting over Kool & The Gang, here’s a transcription of what he’s saying.At that party you’re at, the Guardian’s Ben Jacobs is there too, and in case you can’t hear him shouting over Kool & The Gang, here’s a transcription of what he’s saying.
“Much of the media attention around tonight’s Democratic debate has focused on the long-awaited showdown between frontrunner Hillary Clinton and insurgent Bernie Sanders,” Ben shouts.“Much of the media attention around tonight’s Democratic debate has focused on the long-awaited showdown between frontrunner Hillary Clinton and insurgent Bernie Sanders,” Ben shouts.
“However, there are three other candidates on the stage who will try to make their mark and take advantage of their first major moment in the sun”:“However, there are three other candidates on the stage who will try to make their mark and take advantage of their first major moment in the sun”:
Martin O’Malley: The former governor of Maryland and mayor of Baltimore has been, in a way, the most disappointing of all the Democratic candidates. O’Malley once appeared to be best positioned of any candidate to challenge Clinton from the left. He has repeatedly visited Iowa and New Hampshire and courted elected officials and activists in those states. However, the unrest in his hometown of Baltimore shortly before his campaign launch altered the political narrative around him, and the rise of Bernie Sanders has made it difficult for a more traditional politician to stand out.Martin O’Malley: The former governor of Maryland and mayor of Baltimore has been, in a way, the most disappointing of all the Democratic candidates. O’Malley once appeared to be best positioned of any candidate to challenge Clinton from the left. He has repeatedly visited Iowa and New Hampshire and courted elected officials and activists in those states. However, the unrest in his hometown of Baltimore shortly before his campaign launch altered the political narrative around him, and the rise of Bernie Sanders has made it difficult for a more traditional politician to stand out.
With Joe Biden’s potential candidacy looming, this may be the former Maryland governor’s one shot to catapult himself out of the tier of also ran candidates. Like Eminem in the movie 8 Mile, “You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow / This opportunity comes once in a lifetime, yo.”With Joe Biden’s potential candidacy looming, this may be the former Maryland governor’s one shot to catapult himself out of the tier of also ran candidates. Like Eminem in the movie 8 Mile, “You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow / This opportunity comes once in a lifetime, yo.”
Jim Webb: A former one-term senator from Virginia with three tattoos, Webb is perhaps the most idiosyncratic candidate on stage, and running one of the most idiosyncratic campaigns. He has rarely been in Iowa, New Hampshire, on television or really any place else. Mother Jones even launched an investigation to see if he was really running for president. Webb’s last public appearance seems to have been on a radio show in late September.Jim Webb: A former one-term senator from Virginia with three tattoos, Webb is perhaps the most idiosyncratic candidate on stage, and running one of the most idiosyncratic campaigns. He has rarely been in Iowa, New Hampshire, on television or really any place else. Mother Jones even launched an investigation to see if he was really running for president. Webb’s last public appearance seems to have been on a radio show in late September.
Despite all of this, Webb, who gave the Democratic response to the State of the Union in 2007 and was once considered a rising star in politics, still brings enough gravitas to be taken at least somewhat seriously. The question is whether he can use the debate to finally start a conventional campaign or if Webb, a combat veteran who served secretary of the navy under Ronald Reagan, just keeps on doing his own thing.Despite all of this, Webb, who gave the Democratic response to the State of the Union in 2007 and was once considered a rising star in politics, still brings enough gravitas to be taken at least somewhat seriously. The question is whether he can use the debate to finally start a conventional campaign or if Webb, a combat veteran who served secretary of the navy under Ronald Reagan, just keeps on doing his own thing.
Lincoln Chafee: For Lincoln Chafee, if he is to walk the long road to the White House, he has to make up more than a few kilometers tonight. The former Rhode Island governor and senator, best known for his advocacy for the metric system and party switch to become a Democrat in 2013, has been the darkest of dark horses in the race.Lincoln Chafee: For Lincoln Chafee, if he is to walk the long road to the White House, he has to make up more than a few kilometers tonight. The former Rhode Island governor and senator, best known for his advocacy for the metric system and party switch to become a Democrat in 2013, has been the darkest of dark horses in the race.
So far, the highlight of Chafee’s campaign has been a music video aired by late night talk show host Conan O’Brien rooting for the former Rhode Island governor to somehow crack one percent in the polls. Chafee has to find a way to change that tonight and maybe even work his way up to 2%.So far, the highlight of Chafee’s campaign has been a music video aired by late night talk show host Conan O’Brien rooting for the former Rhode Island governor to somehow crack one percent in the polls. Chafee has to find a way to change that tonight and maybe even work his way up to 2%.
Updated at 12.17am BST Updated at 7.17pm ET
11.59pm BST23:59 6.59pm ET23:59
We have a lot of informational and entertaining preview content coming your way before the debate begins, in about two hours now.We have a lot of informational and entertaining preview content coming your way before the debate begins, in about two hours now.
But we want to start the night out by giving pride of place to you, our readers, many of whom have replied to our online callout for questions you’d like to see asked:But we want to start the night out by giving pride of place to you, our readers, many of whom have replied to our online callout for questions you’d like to see asked:
What's the one question you would ask the Democratic presidential candidates? Tell us before the #DemDebate http://t.co/ON9U1GZL2oWhat's the one question you would ask the Democratic presidential candidates? Tell us before the #DemDebate http://t.co/ON9U1GZL2o
On Facebook, Miriam Colman asks:On Facebook, Miriam Colman asks:
What are their proposals for coming to a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict?What are their proposals for coming to a peaceful resolution to the Syrian conflict?
What common ground do they see with republicans and how do they plan on building on them?What common ground do they see with republicans and how do they plan on building on them?
On our Guardian Witness tool, user carbird76 asks:On our Guardian Witness tool, user carbird76 asks:
Stagnant wagesStagnant wages
What are you gonna do to raise wages? Many Americans haven't had a raise in many years. Many of us are up to our eyeballs in debt, and mad as hell about it. And honestly, Barack hasn't slowed the exporting if jobs at all. What are you gonna do?What are you gonna do to raise wages? Many Americans haven't had a raise in many years. Many of us are up to our eyeballs in debt, and mad as hell about it. And honestly, Barack hasn't slowed the exporting if jobs at all. What are you gonna do?
Sent via Guardian WitnessSent via Guardian Witness
By carbird76By carbird76
11 October 2015, 21:5711 October 2015, 21:57
We hope some of you are getting together to talk about these questions tonight. And, just in case you’re calling that couch and TV and cocktails outnumbering invitees a debate “party”...We hope some of you are getting together to talk about these questions tonight. And, just in case you’re calling that couch and TV and cocktails outnumbering invitees a debate “party”...
11.23pm BST23:23 6.44pm ET23:44
Welcome to Democratic debate night!Welcome to Democratic debate night!
Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the first Democratic presidential debate of the 2016 race for the White House. The Guardian’s Sabrina Siddiqui (@sabrinasiddiqui) and Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) are in Las Vegas, where CNN is scheduled to start broadcasting the action at 8.30pm ET (you can watch it for free online right here, though the network’s countdown clock has only begun on TV).Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the first Democratic presidential debate of the 2016 race for the White House. The Guardian’s Sabrina Siddiqui (@sabrinasiddiqui) and Paul Lewis (@PaulLewis) are in Las Vegas, where CNN is scheduled to start broadcasting the action at 8.30pm ET (you can watch it for free online right here, though the network’s countdown clock has only begun on TV).
The last time around, Hillary Clinton was flanked by candidates called Barack Obama and John Edwards and under pressure to defend her Iraq war vote and years on the Walmart board. She took part in 21 televised debates over an entire year from 2007 to 2008 – and lost.The last time around, Hillary Clinton was flanked by candidates called Barack Obama and John Edwards and under pressure to defend her Iraq war vote and years on the Walmart board. She took part in 21 televised debates over an entire year from 2007 to 2008 – and lost.
Tonight, Clinton will be flanked by candidates called Bernie Sanders and Martin O’Malley, and a couple of other guys, and under pressure to prove, after all her years in the public eye, she is finally the answer for Democratic voters – and for the country, including the 70% who tell Gallup they are “dissatisfied with the way things are going in the United States”.Tonight, Clinton will be flanked by candidates called Bernie Sanders and Martin O’Malley, and a couple of other guys, and under pressure to prove, after all her years in the public eye, she is finally the answer for Democratic voters – and for the country, including the 70% who tell Gallup they are “dissatisfied with the way things are going in the United States”.
But it’s not all about Hillary Clinton. For about a quarter of Democrats, Sanders (CV here) has been right everywhere where Clinton (CV) has been sort of wrong – Bernie Sanders, they say, is right on the war on poverty, right on the climate, right on calling out discrimination.But it’s not all about Hillary Clinton. For about a quarter of Democrats, Sanders (CV here) has been right everywhere where Clinton (CV) has been sort of wrong – Bernie Sanders, they say, is right on the war on poverty, right on the climate, right on calling out discrimination.
The contrast between Clinton and Sanders, side-by-side, will be one of the night’s main attractions at the Wynn on the Vegas Strip. But any of the three other candidates onstage – former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley (CV), former Virginia senator Jim Webb (CV) and former Rhode Island governor and senator Lincoln Chafee (CV) – has the potential to seize the conversation and define the evening.The contrast between Clinton and Sanders, side-by-side, will be one of the night’s main attractions at the Wynn on the Vegas Strip. But any of the three other candidates onstage – former Maryland governor Martin O’Malley (CV), former Virginia senator Jim Webb (CV) and former Rhode Island governor and senator Lincoln Chafee (CV) – has the potential to seize the conversation and define the evening.
Is Clinton in trouble? Can Sanders expand his appeal? Will O’Malley or Webb have a breakout moment? Will Chafee repeat his calls to pardon Edward Snowden and encourage the US to adopt the metric system? We’ll be answering all those questions and some even more outlandish ones throughout the evening right here, with a cast of characters from Washington and way, way beyond:Is Clinton in trouble? Can Sanders expand his appeal? Will O’Malley or Webb have a breakout moment? Will Chafee repeat his calls to pardon Edward Snowden and encourage the US to adopt the metric system? We’ll be answering all those questions and some even more outlandish ones throughout the evening right here, with a cast of characters from Washington and way, way beyond:
We promise not to take anything TOO seriously. But we also would not send you into this evening’s two-hour debate without screening this short film of interviews with voters on the streets of Las Vegas, from Sabrina Siddiqui and videographer Laurence Mathieu-Léger over the weekend.We promise not to take anything TOO seriously. But we also would not send you into this evening’s two-hour debate without screening this short film of interviews with voters on the streets of Las Vegas, from Sabrina Siddiqui and videographer Laurence Mathieu-Léger over the weekend.
Updated at 11.37pm BST Updated at 5.33am ET