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Sanders leads Clinton in Iowa by eight points in new poll – campaign live Sanders leads Clinton in Iowa by eight points in new poll – campaign live
(35 minutes later)
12.23am GMT
00:23
Spotted by the Guardian’s Ben Jacobs in Iowa:
New license plate of Andy McGuire, former Dem candidate for Lt Gov of Iowa and 2008 Hillary co-chair in Iowa pic.twitter.com/SpHkhthJQS
12.13am GMT
00:13
Ben Jacobs
The Guardian’s Ben Jacobs files from a Ben Carson campaign event in Glenwood, Iowa, where the neurosurgeon declared that any military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder had better bring a doctor’s note to the VA if they want to be treated:
Ben Carson indicated that he might be willing to deny support for PTSD to anyone in the military who is an undocumented immigrant.
In a gaggle in Glenwood, Iowa on Thursday, Carson was asked about Sarah Palin blaming her son Track’s PTSD on Barack Obama. After making clear that “I probably wouldn’t do that, but then again I am not big blamer,” the retired neurosurgeon then discussed the importance of providing those in the military support of potential PTSD. “All of our troops, anyone who signs up for volunteer military, should have a support group that works for them in their entire military career, particularly when they are in combat.”
When Carson was asked whether this support should be extended to those in the military who are undocumented immigrants, however, he seemed hesitant to do so. After he said “I personally don’t believe anyone who is illegally in the us should be in our military,” Carson added he thought PTSD support groups to illegal immigrants serving in the US military should “be looked at on a case-by-case basis.”
Updated
at 12.18am GMT
12.05am GMT
00:05
Good news for Bernie Sanders is bad news for New Hampshire citizens who don’t carpool, according to the Guardian’s Dan Roberts.
It may lack the predictive punch of an 8pt Iowa poll lead, but the car park of every Sanders event in New Hampshire today has been rammed.
11.37pm GMT11.37pm GMT
23:3723:37
Looks like Donald Trump has gotten word about his latest poll numbers...Looks like Donald Trump has gotten word about his latest poll numbers...
Thank you, Iowa! #Trump2016 pic.twitter.com/ryhEheTLqNThank you, Iowa! #Trump2016 pic.twitter.com/ryhEheTLqN
11.29pm GMT11.29pm GMT
23:2923:29
David SmithDavid Smith
The Guardian’s David Smith trailed Ted Cruz in New Hampshire today, where the Texas senator juggled Star Wars fans and Bible thumping primary voters in the same afternoon - and pledged to hold a pig roast on the White House lawn:Ted Cruz has been showing his protean talents in New Hampshire, first quipping about Hollywood movies with students at a university campus, then referencing the Bible with a working-class audience in a pizza joint.The Guardian’s David Smith trailed Ted Cruz in New Hampshire today, where the Texas senator juggled Star Wars fans and Bible thumping primary voters in the same afternoon - and pledged to hold a pig roast on the White House lawn:Ted Cruz has been showing his protean talents in New Hampshire, first quipping about Hollywood movies with students at a university campus, then referencing the Bible with a working-class audience in a pizza joint.
The Texas senator was presented with a $5 plastic lightsaber by Andrew Slack, 36, a civic activist and self-described “director of the US rebel alliance”. Cruz, himself a Star Wars fan, played along. He said Han Solo was the coolest character in cinema and anyone who believes Luke Skywalker is instead should be disqualified from running for president.The Texas senator was presented with a $5 plastic lightsaber by Andrew Slack, 36, a civic activist and self-described “director of the US rebel alliance”. Cruz, himself a Star Wars fan, played along. He said Han Solo was the coolest character in cinema and anyone who believes Luke Skywalker is instead should be disqualified from running for president.
But he disappointed Slack by refusing to take a “Jedi pledge” to “blow up the Death Star” of Citizens United, the supreme court’s 2010 ruling that allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited money on campaigning and ushered in the rise of Super Pacs.But he disappointed Slack by refusing to take a “Jedi pledge” to “blow up the Death Star” of Citizens United, the supreme court’s 2010 ruling that allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited money on campaigning and ushered in the rise of Super Pacs.
Cruz said it was a matter of free speech, explaining: “I think Michael Moore’s movies are idiotic. But he’s got a first amendment right to keep making idiotic movies.”Cruz said it was a matter of free speech, explaining: “I think Michael Moore’s movies are idiotic. But he’s got a first amendment right to keep making idiotic movies.”
Asked whom he would invite to a fantasy dinner party, Cruz mentioned Jesus Christ, Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King and Elvis Presley. He also promised to hold a pig roast on the south lawn of the White House.Asked whom he would invite to a fantasy dinner party, Cruz mentioned Jesus Christ, Ronald Reagan, Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King and Elvis Presley. He also promised to hold a pig roast on the south lawn of the White House.
Afterwards he told journalists the Republican establishment is defecting from Marco Rubio to Donald Trump because of the latter’s willingness to cut deals. “The establishment is saying the one guy who scares the heck out of us is Cruz, because Cruz will actually stand with the American people against the career politicians in both parties that get in bed with the lobbyists and special interests.”Afterwards he told journalists the Republican establishment is defecting from Marco Rubio to Donald Trump because of the latter’s willingness to cut deals. “The establishment is saying the one guy who scares the heck out of us is Cruz, because Cruz will actually stand with the American people against the career politicians in both parties that get in bed with the lobbyists and special interests.”
Trump has previously been a donor to the Clinton Foundation and supported Clinton and other leading Democrats, Cruz added. “Every day he is engaging in more and more personal attacks. I have no intention of responding. I like Donald Trump, I respect Donald Trump, I will continue to praise him personally, and so if he wants to engage in insults that’s his prerogative. But I’m going to keep the focus on the issues of substance. I think policy distinctions are fair game.”Trump has previously been a donor to the Clinton Foundation and supported Clinton and other leading Democrats, Cruz added. “Every day he is engaging in more and more personal attacks. I have no intention of responding. I like Donald Trump, I respect Donald Trump, I will continue to praise him personally, and so if he wants to engage in insults that’s his prerogative. But I’m going to keep the focus on the issues of substance. I think policy distinctions are fair game.”
The senator then made his way to Theo’s pizza restaurant, which was standing-room only and in a more febrile mood. Cruz gave a bleaker account of the state of the nation, comparing it with Jimmy Carter’s presidency in the 1970s but noting that this was followed by the glory years of Reagan and the timeworn “shining city on the hill”.The senator then made his way to Theo’s pizza restaurant, which was standing-room only and in a more febrile mood. Cruz gave a bleaker account of the state of the nation, comparing it with Jimmy Carter’s presidency in the 1970s but noting that this was followed by the glory years of Reagan and the timeworn “shining city on the hill”.
He pledged to revoke Obama’s executive orders and actions on gun control and other matters, launch an investigation into Planned Parenthood “and those horrible videos”, protect religious liberty and “rip to shreds this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal”.He pledged to revoke Obama’s executive orders and actions on gun control and other matters, launch an investigation into Planned Parenthood “and those horrible videos”, protect religious liberty and “rip to shreds this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal”.
And that would just be his first day in office.And that would just be his first day in office.
He would also move the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and “repeal every word of Obamacare”. As for immigration, Cruz said slyly: “We’re going to build a wall - and I got somebody in mind to build it.”He would also move the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and “repeal every word of Obamacare”. As for immigration, Cruz said slyly: “We’re going to build a wall - and I got somebody in mind to build it.”
As placard-waving supporters voiced support, Cruz promised to defend the Supreme Court against a liberal majority of justices. Hillary Clinton, he warned, would seek to use it to tear down war memorials which would be “not so far” from removing crosses and stars of David from war graves.As placard-waving supporters voiced support, Cruz promised to defend the Supreme Court against a liberal majority of justices. Hillary Clinton, he warned, would seek to use it to tear down war memorials which would be “not so far” from removing crosses and stars of David from war graves.
He urged the crowd to pray for the nation and each encourage nine friends to vote for him on primary day. “Continue this awakening,” he said.He urged the crowd to pray for the nation and each encourage nine friends to vote for him on primary day. “Continue this awakening,” he said.
11.02pm GMT11.02pm GMT
23:0223:02
Rupert NeateRupert Neate
The glitz! The glamour! The number of people called stupid!The glitz! The glamour! The number of people called stupid!
The Guardian’s Rupert Neate reports from the South Point resort and casino in Las Vegas, where billionaire frontrunner Donald Trump was stumping with the wind of two major polls at his back:The Guardian’s Rupert Neate reports from the South Point resort and casino in Las Vegas, where billionaire frontrunner Donald Trump was stumping with the wind of two major polls at his back:
A lot of people came to see Donald Trump speak in a casino Las Vegas on Thursday, and he demanded the media take note of it. The leading Republican Presidential candidate called the press “scumbags at the back of the room” for, he said, consistently not showing the scale of the crowds that turn out to support his campaign rallies.A lot of people came to see Donald Trump speak in a casino Las Vegas on Thursday, and he demanded the media take note of it. The leading Republican Presidential candidate called the press “scumbags at the back of the room” for, he said, consistently not showing the scale of the crowds that turn out to support his campaign rallies.
Trump, in brilliant pink tie, starts off by attacking the media as "scumbags". 'All they focus on is the protesters' pic.twitter.com/gjh1BwTGbvTrump, in brilliant pink tie, starts off by attacking the media as "scumbags". 'All they focus on is the protesters' pic.twitter.com/gjh1BwTGbv
At one point, Trump, who according to a new poll has captured a double-digit lead in Iowa a mere 11 days before the caucuses, halted his rambling speech until TV cameramen “turn around and show the crowd”. “There’s not been one shot of the crowd,” he said.At one point, Trump, who according to a new poll has captured a double-digit lead in Iowa a mere 11 days before the caucuses, halted his rambling speech until TV cameramen “turn around and show the crowd”. “There’s not been one shot of the crowd,” he said.
So many people (4,000, according to casino security) had turned out to see Trump speak that the casino opened up three overflow rooms to relay his speech on big screens.So many people (4,000, according to casino security) had turned out to see Trump speak that the casino opened up three overflow rooms to relay his speech on big screens.
Many of those who turned out to see Trump had come from Shot Show, the gun industry trade show also being held in Las Vegas, and one of the biggest cheers came as the candidate pledged to “save the Second Amendment”.Many of those who turned out to see Trump had come from Shot Show, the gun industry trade show also being held in Las Vegas, and one of the biggest cheers came as the candidate pledged to “save the Second Amendment”.
“You listen to Hillary, and you’re not going to have a Second Amendment!”“You listen to Hillary, and you’re not going to have a Second Amendment!”
Jerry Springer, 68, (yes his real name, I checked) was one of those who had taken a break from the gun fair to turn out for Trump. Even though not a big fan of Trump, Springer said he would support any Republican who can “take out Hillary”.Jerry Springer, 68, (yes his real name, I checked) was one of those who had taken a break from the gun fair to turn out for Trump. Even though not a big fan of Trump, Springer said he would support any Republican who can “take out Hillary”.
Springer, who wore a sticker on the back of his shirt reading “1.20.17 OBAMA’S LAST DAY IN OFFICE!”, said Obama was “the worst president we have ever had”.Springer, who wore a sticker on the back of his shirt reading “1.20.17 OBAMA’S LAST DAY IN OFFICE!”, said Obama was “the worst president we have ever had”.
“Why? He is changing this country away from what it was. He doesn’t want people to pay for anything. He is giving away food stamps to everyone. He is making it so that people don’t have to pay for anything, and it is people like us that have to pay for everything.”“Why? He is changing this country away from what it was. He doesn’t want people to pay for anything. He is giving away food stamps to everyone. He is making it so that people don’t have to pay for anything, and it is people like us that have to pay for everything.”
Meet Jerry Springer (really, I checked his ID). He's not a fan of Obama, but not hugely keen on Trump either. pic.twitter.com/NiqXUuQwhMMeet Jerry Springer (really, I checked his ID). He's not a fan of Obama, but not hugely keen on Trump either. pic.twitter.com/NiqXUuQwhM
Trump, whose speech concentrated on his favourite topics of immigration, taxation and trade, said “we are being led by stupid people”, and he wanted to lead the country to “make America great again”.Trump, whose speech concentrated on his favourite topics of immigration, taxation and trade, said “we are being led by stupid people”, and he wanted to lead the country to “make America great again”.
He had a lot of fans in the room, including Rhonda Settles, a small business owner who has lived in Vegas since 1975, said Trump was “awesome as usual”.He had a lot of fans in the room, including Rhonda Settles, a small business owner who has lived in Vegas since 1975, said Trump was “awesome as usual”.
“The country is in a downward spiral, and Trump is the only one stepping up to the plate,” she said. “He is the one we can believe he can make America great again. He has a proven record, even though not necessarily in politics.”“The country is in a downward spiral, and Trump is the only one stepping up to the plate,” she said. “He is the one we can believe he can make America great again. He has a proven record, even though not necessarily in politics.”
Settles, who is African American, said she did not believe Trump was racist or prejudice, despite his description of Mexicans as criminals and rapists and his pledge to make Mexico pay for a wall along the border to prevent illegal immigration.Settles, who is African American, said she did not believe Trump was racist or prejudice, despite his description of Mexicans as criminals and rapists and his pledge to make Mexico pay for a wall along the border to prevent illegal immigration.
“Those were not negative [comments],” she said. “We have to protect our country, I don’t think he has anything to do with prejudice or racism. It is about following the laws that exist, but the current government has not been following.”“Those were not negative [comments],” she said. “We have to protect our country, I don’t think he has anything to do with prejudice or racism. It is about following the laws that exist, but the current government has not been following.”
Settles conceded that Trump did not make any real promises in his 45 minute Vegas speech, but said: “We’re at the point where we have to listen not to what they say but how they say it. Donald Trump is ringing true to a lot of people. I don’t need to know every detail. I just need to trust him, and I do.”Settles conceded that Trump did not make any real promises in his 45 minute Vegas speech, but said: “We’re at the point where we have to listen not to what they say but how they say it. Donald Trump is ringing true to a lot of people. I don’t need to know every detail. I just need to trust him, and I do.”
Sharon and Charles Wax, both in their eighties, are also strident Trump supports. “We think he’s absolutely fabulous,” said Sharon wearing a Trump hat, light-up bow tie and a t shirt showing her and Charles meeting Trump at a previous rally. “He thinks what Americans think, our country has gone down the tubes after eight years of Democrats. This is the only man who can bring trade back to America and, as he says, make America great again.”Sharon and Charles Wax, both in their eighties, are also strident Trump supports. “We think he’s absolutely fabulous,” said Sharon wearing a Trump hat, light-up bow tie and a t shirt showing her and Charles meeting Trump at a previous rally. “He thinks what Americans think, our country has gone down the tubes after eight years of Democrats. This is the only man who can bring trade back to America and, as he says, make America great again.”
10.27pm GMT10.27pm GMT
22:2722:27
If Congress handed out superlatives at the end of every session - and if the continued drollery of the Miss America pageant is any indication, it should - Texas senator Ted Cruz would be in no danger of winning “Most Popular.”If Congress handed out superlatives at the end of every session - and if the continued drollery of the Miss America pageant is any indication, it should - Texas senator Ted Cruz would be in no danger of winning “Most Popular.”
A new report from the Associated Press highlights Cruz’s deep unpopularity within the US senate, calling him the “least-favorite colleague” of nearly every Republican senator. But the abhorrence for Cruz’s personal politics and perceived grandstanding is giving way in the upper chamber to panic as members of the senate worry that Cruz’s nomination could spell the end of the party’s control of Congress.A new report from the Associated Press highlights Cruz’s deep unpopularity within the US senate, calling him the “least-favorite colleague” of nearly every Republican senator. But the abhorrence for Cruz’s personal politics and perceived grandstanding is giving way in the upper chamber to panic as members of the senate worry that Cruz’s nomination could spell the end of the party’s control of Congress.
Orrin Hatch of Utah told the Associated Press that he has yet to see “any great desire on [Cruz’s] part to really bring the party along with him, so that’s something that worries me.”Orrin Hatch of Utah told the Associated Press that he has yet to see “any great desire on [Cruz’s] part to really bring the party along with him, so that’s something that worries me.”
Representative Pete King of New York called Cruz a “fraud,” saying that he couldn’t name a single person in Washington “who gets this opposition from his own people. ... I’m talking about people as conservative as he is who just can’t stand him.”Representative Pete King of New York called Cruz a “fraud,” saying that he couldn’t name a single person in Washington “who gets this opposition from his own people. ... I’m talking about people as conservative as he is who just can’t stand him.”
Richard Burr of North Carolina even reportedly told supporters at a campaign fundraiser that he would rather vote for socialist senator Bernie Sanders than Cruz.Richard Burr of North Carolina even reportedly told supporters at a campaign fundraiser that he would rather vote for socialist senator Bernie Sanders than Cruz.
A few of the more glaring highlights that Cruz’s detractors cite in their opposition:A few of the more glaring highlights that Cruz’s detractors cite in their opposition:
And who does the senate seem ready to crown as Miss Congeniality? Florida senator Marco Rubio, who has received the endorsement of four Republican members of the chamber.And who does the senate seem ready to crown as Miss Congeniality? Florida senator Marco Rubio, who has received the endorsement of four Republican members of the chamber.
Cruz has received none.Cruz has received none.
9.53pm GMT9.53pm GMT
21:5321:53
Adam GabbattAdam Gabbatt
Filing from the bustling metropolis of Brooklyn, Adam Gabbatt reports that support for Vermont senator Bernie Sanders is at an alarming low.Filing from the bustling metropolis of Brooklyn, Adam Gabbatt reports that support for Vermont senator Bernie Sanders is at an alarming low.
Wait - scratch that.Wait - scratch that.
Filing from the sleepy cornfields of Brooklyn, Iowa, Adam Gabbatt reports that support for Vermont senator Bernie Sanders is at an alarming low:Filing from the sleepy cornfields of Brooklyn, Iowa, Adam Gabbatt reports that support for Vermont senator Bernie Sanders is at an alarming low:
Is Brooklyn, Iowa, for Bernie? I'm about to find out pic.twitter.com/JCPG0OrU7EIs Brooklyn, Iowa, for Bernie? I'm about to find out pic.twitter.com/JCPG0OrU7E
In Brooklyn, New York, the main industry is independent coffee shops and almond milk. In Brooklyn, Iowa, it is agriculture: corn, soy and dairy milk.In Brooklyn, New York, the main industry is independent coffee shops and almond milk. In Brooklyn, Iowa, it is agriculture: corn, soy and dairy milk.
More than 2.5 million people live in Brooklyn, New York. Brooklyn, Iowa, has a population of 1,500 people.More than 2.5 million people live in Brooklyn, New York. Brooklyn, Iowa, has a population of 1,500 people.
Oh – and in Brooklyn, New York, Bernie Sanders is wildly popular. Whereas in the Iowan Brooklyn, no one seems to like him very much.Oh – and in Brooklyn, New York, Bernie Sanders is wildly popular. Whereas in the Iowan Brooklyn, no one seems to like him very much.
“No,” said Marcia Kilmer, 66, when I asked if she would be voting for Sanders. She was having her hair cut in Shear Expressions. “He’s too old. I don’t like his age.” She likes Ted Cruz and Ben Carson.“No,” said Marcia Kilmer, 66, when I asked if she would be voting for Sanders. She was having her hair cut in Shear Expressions. “He’s too old. I don’t like his age.” She likes Ted Cruz and Ben Carson.
“I do not, myself,” said a woman in Brooklyn’s pharmacy, when I asked if she liked Sanders.“I do not, myself,” said a woman in Brooklyn’s pharmacy, when I asked if she liked Sanders.
“I’m not a big fan of spreading the wealth. I think you should get what you earn,” said a man called Paul, when I asked him why he didn’t like Sanders. Paul was sitting in Brooklyn’s grocery store, Seaton’s Flag Foods, with five friends.“I’m not a big fan of spreading the wealth. I think you should get what you earn,” said a man called Paul, when I asked him why he didn’t like Sanders. Paul was sitting in Brooklyn’s grocery store, Seaton’s Flag Foods, with five friends.
None of them supported Bernie Sanders.None of them supported Bernie Sanders.
Stay tuned for more updates from Brooklyn, Iowa...Stay tuned for more updates from Brooklyn, Iowa...
UpdatedUpdated
at 11.56pm GMTat 11.56pm GMT
9.47pm GMT9.47pm GMT
21:4721:47
Ben JacobsBen Jacobs
Reporting from the frosty snowfields ofReporting from the frosty snowfields of
ArendelleArendelle
Iowa, the Guardian’s Ben Jacobs points out that the campaign’s favorite pediatric neurosurgeon is well-protected - if not well supported: Iowa, the Guardian’s Ben Jacobs points out that the campaign’s favorite pediatric neurosurgeon is well-protected - if not well supported:
Everyone remembers that Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have Secret Service protection - but a third candidate does as well.Everyone remembers that Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have Secret Service protection - but a third candidate does as well.
Despite his precipitous fall in polls, Ben Carson still has Secret Service protection. The retired neurosurgeon was given Secret Service protection in November along with Trump, at a point when the two were still neck-and-neck in the polls. Secret Service protection is awarded based a mix of factors, including polling and the number of death threats received. Hillary Clinton has been entitled to a Secret Service detail since the start of the campaign and beyond, due to her status as a former first lady.Despite his precipitous fall in polls, Ben Carson still has Secret Service protection. The retired neurosurgeon was given Secret Service protection in November along with Trump, at a point when the two were still neck-and-neck in the polls. Secret Service protection is awarded based a mix of factors, including polling and the number of death threats received. Hillary Clinton has been entitled to a Secret Service detail since the start of the campaign and beyond, due to her status as a former first lady.
The result is a jarring juxtaposition as one arrives at a Carson event. Despite his diminishing standing in the polls and a crowd that is heavily composed of high school students eager for an excuse to leave class early, there are still agents in suits and earpieces alertly scanning the crowd and a magnetometer at the entrance to the event.The result is a jarring juxtaposition as one arrives at a Carson event. Despite his diminishing standing in the polls and a crowd that is heavily composed of high school students eager for an excuse to leave class early, there are still agents in suits and earpieces alertly scanning the crowd and a magnetometer at the entrance to the event.
9.43pm GMT9.43pm GMT
21:4321:43
Rupert NeateRupert Neate
The Guardian business correspondent Rupert Neate is on the scene in Las Vegas, where Donald Trump is cutting into his best friend and favorite foe, the news media:The Guardian business correspondent Rupert Neate is on the scene in Las Vegas, where Donald Trump is cutting into his best friend and favorite foe, the news media:
Trump, in brilliant pink tie, starts off by attacking the media as "scumbags". 'All they focus on is the protesters' pic.twitter.com/gjh1BwTGbvTrump, in brilliant pink tie, starts off by attacking the media as "scumbags". 'All they focus on is the protesters' pic.twitter.com/gjh1BwTGbv
The room at the South Point resort and casino is filled to capacity - partly, Rupert says, by design:The room at the South Point resort and casino is filled to capacity - partly, Rupert says, by design:
More than 4,000 people were issued tickets to see Donald Trump in Vegas. Capacity is 1,5k. People are angry #trump pic.twitter.com/Jf40Yw3u4fMore than 4,000 people were issued tickets to see Donald Trump in Vegas. Capacity is 1,5k. People are angry #trump pic.twitter.com/Jf40Yw3u4f
9.36pm GMT9.36pm GMT
21:3621:36
Dan RobertsDan Roberts
Vermont senator Bernie Sanders is becoming a bit of a cut-up on the campaign trail, to rave reviews from audiences, reports Washington Bureau chief Dan Roberts:Vermont senator Bernie Sanders is becoming a bit of a cut-up on the campaign trail, to rave reviews from audiences, reports Washington Bureau chief Dan Roberts:
One sign of growing confidence in the Bernie Sanders camp is his willingness to gently mock his reputation for quirky public speaking. In recent days we’ve had quips about his hair and dress sense that do much to endear him to young supporters, but today at Southern New Hampshire University he took on the reputation for giving lectures. “Let me a bit professorial here,” said Sanders to laughter from the students. “Who knows the difference between real unemployment and official unemployment?”, he asked, in an exchange that would not have been out of place in economics class.One sign of growing confidence in the Bernie Sanders camp is his willingness to gently mock his reputation for quirky public speaking. In recent days we’ve had quips about his hair and dress sense that do much to endear him to young supporters, but today at Southern New Hampshire University he took on the reputation for giving lectures. “Let me a bit professorial here,” said Sanders to laughter from the students. “Who knows the difference between real unemployment and official unemployment?”, he asked, in an exchange that would not have been out of place in economics class.
The next assignment concerns the environment - a big theme here where Sanders was joined by campaigner Bill McKibben. “How does that relate to campaign finance?” asked the prof, before explaining his theory of the link between energy industry lobbying and climate change denial among Republicans.The next assignment concerns the environment - a big theme here where Sanders was joined by campaigner Bill McKibben. “How does that relate to campaign finance?” asked the prof, before explaining his theory of the link between energy industry lobbying and climate change denial among Republicans.
It’s not all one way though. After he acknowledged being accused of “Santa Claus” tendencies, one student asks the six-million-dollar question about how Sanders can possibly achieve everything he is proposing. “What am I smoking, you mean?,” he shot back to more laughter.It’s not all one way though. After he acknowledged being accused of “Santa Claus” tendencies, one student asks the six-million-dollar question about how Sanders can possibly achieve everything he is proposing. “What am I smoking, you mean?,” he shot back to more laughter.
(His answer, in case you were wondering, is that all radical change takes people by surprise.)(His answer, in case you were wondering, is that all radical change takes people by surprise.)
9.32pm GMT9.32pm GMT
21:3221:32
More from the Cable News Network’s polling apparatus...More from the Cable News Network’s polling apparatus...
The same survey that showed Hillary Clinton with a devastating eight-point deficit in Iowa indicates additional good news for outsider candidates who are relatively new to their party of choice. Billionaire frontrunner Donald Trump holds a double-digit lead among likely Republican caucus-goers in the Hawkeye State, leading Texas senator Ted Cruz by eleven points, 37% to 26%. The survey, conducted earlier this week, finds Florida senator Marco Rubio in third place at 14%, the only other Republican candidate to hold double digits in the state.The same survey that showed Hillary Clinton with a devastating eight-point deficit in Iowa indicates additional good news for outsider candidates who are relatively new to their party of choice. Billionaire frontrunner Donald Trump holds a double-digit lead among likely Republican caucus-goers in the Hawkeye State, leading Texas senator Ted Cruz by eleven points, 37% to 26%. The survey, conducted earlier this week, finds Florida senator Marco Rubio in third place at 14%, the only other Republican candidate to hold double digits in the state.
Trump jumped four points since the same poll was conducted in late November/early December, while Cruz picked up six points. Fifty-four percent of likely Iowa voters see Trump as the most qualified candidate to handle the economy, and an outright majority of 51% say he’s the best candidate on immigration. He even edges out Cruz on foreign policy, 27% to 25%, although among social conservatives, the Texas senator walks away with a leading 29% who are concerned about same-sex marriage and abortion.Trump jumped four points since the same poll was conducted in late November/early December, while Cruz picked up six points. Fifty-four percent of likely Iowa voters see Trump as the most qualified candidate to handle the economy, and an outright majority of 51% say he’s the best candidate on immigration. He even edges out Cruz on foreign policy, 27% to 25%, although among social conservatives, the Texas senator walks away with a leading 29% who are concerned about same-sex marriage and abortion.
Among the lower tier, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson “leads” with 6% - a quarter of the support he had among likely caucus-goers in October - with Jeb Bush and Mike Huckabee tied for fifth place at 3% each. Kentucky senator Rand Paul, who has put little energy in Iowa, is at 2%, while Chris Christie, Carly Fiorina, John Kasich and previous caucus-winner Rick Santorum each pull in only 1% support.Among the lower tier, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson “leads” with 6% - a quarter of the support he had among likely caucus-goers in October - with Jeb Bush and Mike Huckabee tied for fifth place at 3% each. Kentucky senator Rand Paul, who has put little energy in Iowa, is at 2%, while Chris Christie, Carly Fiorina, John Kasich and previous caucus-winner Rick Santorum each pull in only 1% support.
Put another way: If supporters of the bottom eight candidates were to coalesce behind a single person, that candidate would be in third place.Put another way: If supporters of the bottom eight candidates were to coalesce behind a single person, that candidate would be in third place.
9.15pm GMT9.15pm GMT
21:1521:15
Hillary Clinton's latest Iowa poll numbers are borderline disastrousHillary Clinton's latest Iowa poll numbers are borderline disastrous
CNN polls are officially on the Clinton hit list.CNN polls are officially on the Clinton hit list.
With only 11 days to go before the Iowa caucuses, a new CNN/ORC poll released Thursday afternoon finds Vermont senator Bernie Sanders with an astonishing eight-point lead over Hillary Clinton in Iowa – 51% to 43%. It’s a dramatic reversal of fortunes for the former secretary of state, who led Sanders by 18 points in the same poll last December, 54% to 36%.With only 11 days to go before the Iowa caucuses, a new CNN/ORC poll released Thursday afternoon finds Vermont senator Bernie Sanders with an astonishing eight-point lead over Hillary Clinton in Iowa – 51% to 43%. It’s a dramatic reversal of fortunes for the former secretary of state, who led Sanders by 18 points in the same poll last December, 54% to 36%.
The poll arrives on the heels of a CNN/WMUR poll released earlier this week that shows Sanders with a commanding 27-point lead in New Hampshire. A one-two loss in both Iowa, originally deemed safe Clinton territory, and New Hampshire could indicate an existential threat to the former secretary of state’s candidacy.The poll arrives on the heels of a CNN/WMUR poll released earlier this week that shows Sanders with a commanding 27-point lead in New Hampshire. A one-two loss in both Iowa, originally deemed safe Clinton territory, and New Hampshire could indicate an existential threat to the former secretary of state’s candidacy.
Key to Sanders’ lead: voters who will be caucusing for the first time. Among Democrats who caucused in 2008, Clinton leads Sanders by a comfortable 17 points, 55% to 38%. The self-declared socialist can also credit his perceived authenticity on economic issues as a major factor in the surge in support. Likely caucus-goers told CNN that they trust Sanders over Clinton on the economy by 22 points – two in three surveyed said they felt he would do more for America’s middle class. A mere 30% felt that way about Clinton.Key to Sanders’ lead: voters who will be caucusing for the first time. Among Democrats who caucused in 2008, Clinton leads Sanders by a comfortable 17 points, 55% to 38%. The self-declared socialist can also credit his perceived authenticity on economic issues as a major factor in the surge in support. Likely caucus-goers told CNN that they trust Sanders over Clinton on the economy by 22 points – two in three surveyed said they felt he would do more for America’s middle class. A mere 30% felt that way about Clinton.
It wasn’t exclusively bad news for the former secretary of state, who leads on foreign policy among likely Iowa voters, viewed as more trustworthy on the issue by a margin of 40 points. Additionally, despite what appear to be massive weaknesses in early states, Clinton is seen as the candidate most likely to win the general election in November, 60% to 38%.It wasn’t exclusively bad news for the former secretary of state, who leads on foreign policy among likely Iowa voters, viewed as more trustworthy on the issue by a margin of 40 points. Additionally, despite what appear to be massive weaknesses in early states, Clinton is seen as the candidate most likely to win the general election in November, 60% to 38%.
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at 9.21pm GMTat 9.21pm GMT
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It may have flown under the radar, but an unexpectedly popular presidential candidate has picked up a huge (yuge?) endorsement from a vanguard of his adopted party’s activist wing.It may have flown under the radar, but an unexpectedly popular presidential candidate has picked up a huge (yuge?) endorsement from a vanguard of his adopted party’s activist wing.
No, not Donald Trump. Obviously, you heard all about that endorsement.No, not Donald Trump. Obviously, you heard all about that endorsement.
Vermont senator Bernie Sanders picked up the endorsement of The Nation, the oldest continuously published weekly magazine in the US and self-described “flagship of the left,” earlier this month. Now, Katrina vanden Heuvel, The Nation’s editor and publisher, has come out in an interview explaining the progressive magazine’s decision to endorse a primary candidate for only the third time in its 150-year history.Vermont senator Bernie Sanders picked up the endorsement of The Nation, the oldest continuously published weekly magazine in the US and self-described “flagship of the left,” earlier this month. Now, Katrina vanden Heuvel, The Nation’s editor and publisher, has come out in an interview explaining the progressive magazine’s decision to endorse a primary candidate for only the third time in its 150-year history.
“It is a statement of commitment to issues we believe in above all,” said vanden Heuvel in the magazine’s podcast Start Making Sense. Sanders, vanden Heuvel said, “lifts up, amplifies the issues that have animated The Nation over these last decades.”“It is a statement of commitment to issues we believe in above all,” said vanden Heuvel in the magazine’s podcast Start Making Sense. Sanders, vanden Heuvel said, “lifts up, amplifies the issues that have animated The Nation over these last decades.”
“The key issue... is inequality,” she elaborated. “There are many kinds of inequality, but Bernie Sanders is an unbought and passionate fighter against a rigged system and metastasizing inequality, economic and political.”“The key issue... is inequality,” she elaborated. “There are many kinds of inequality, but Bernie Sanders is an unbought and passionate fighter against a rigged system and metastasizing inequality, economic and political.”
“Above all, it was his commitment to exposing a rigged system” that prompted The Nation to give the self-declared socialist its endorsement in the Democratic primary.“Above all, it was his commitment to exposing a rigged system” that prompted The Nation to give the self-declared socialist its endorsement in the Democratic primary.
An endorsement from The Nation is a rare event - the periodical has previously endorsed Ulysses S. Grant in 1868, Norman Thomas in 1943 and Franklin Delano Roosevelt in each of his four campaigns - and even rarer in a primary campaign. It’s the second time that the magazine has endorsed Hillary Clinton’s main rival in the Democratic primary, having bestowed the honor upon then-senator Barack Obama in 2008.An endorsement from The Nation is a rare event - the periodical has previously endorsed Ulysses S. Grant in 1868, Norman Thomas in 1943 and Franklin Delano Roosevelt in each of his four campaigns - and even rarer in a primary campaign. It’s the second time that the magazine has endorsed Hillary Clinton’s main rival in the Democratic primary, having bestowed the honor upon then-senator Barack Obama in 2008.
Listen to the full interview, in which vanden Heuvel (pronounced “VAN-din HOY-vul,” in case you were stumped) praises Sanders’ ability to raise millions almost exclusively from small donors, calling him “liberated” to pursue progressive policies without fear of political reprisal.Listen to the full interview, in which vanden Heuvel (pronounced “VAN-din HOY-vul,” in case you were stumped) praises Sanders’ ability to raise millions almost exclusively from small donors, calling him “liberated” to pursue progressive policies without fear of political reprisal.
8.06pm GMT8.06pm GMT
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Dan RobertsDan Roberts
Despite some new polls showing Bernie Sanders ahead in New Hampshire by as much as 27 points, there is an air of realism at his first campaign stop since the latest surge captured headlines here, writes Guardian Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts:Despite some new polls showing Bernie Sanders ahead in New Hampshire by as much as 27 points, there is an air of realism at his first campaign stop since the latest surge captured headlines here, writes Guardian Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts:
The meeting with seniors at the Peterborough community center reflected a conscious push by the campaign to bolster support among older voters, whose undeniable interest in the 74-year-old has been somewhat eclipsed by the more vocal enthusiasm Sanders generally receives from students and younger voters.The meeting with seniors at the Peterborough community center reflected a conscious push by the campaign to bolster support among older voters, whose undeniable interest in the 74-year-old has been somewhat eclipsed by the more vocal enthusiasm Sanders generally receives from students and younger voters.
“He cares about us older folks – he is one of us you know,” says Merry Stockwell, a volunteer who introduced the senator from neighbouring Vermont to this retirement community an hour or so north of Boston.“He cares about us older folks – he is one of us you know,” says Merry Stockwell, a volunteer who introduced the senator from neighbouring Vermont to this retirement community an hour or so north of Boston.
“I believe in what he is saying, I’m just not sure how much of it he is going to be able to achieve,” said Ruth, a 68-year-old retired educator from the nearby town of Antrim, who is one of the many voters in the state still to make up their minds.“I believe in what he is saying, I’m just not sure how much of it he is going to be able to achieve,” said Ruth, a 68-year-old retired educator from the nearby town of Antrim, who is one of the many voters in the state still to make up their minds.
Though equally sceptical about Hillary Clinton – “Hillary has got a lot of baggage” – she shrugs when asked what might convince her that Sanders can realistically take on Republicans and win the White House.Though equally sceptical about Hillary Clinton – “Hillary has got a lot of baggage” – she shrugs when asked what might convince her that Sanders can realistically take on Republicans and win the White House.
Read the full piece here.Read the full piece here.
Related: Bernie Sanders cites New Hampshire lead as he makes case for White HouseRelated: Bernie Sanders cites New Hampshire lead as he makes case for White House
7.57pm GMT7.57pm GMT
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Snyder to face CongressSnyder to face Congress
Congress wants to hear from the governor of Michigan about poisonous drinking water in the town of Flint:Congress wants to hear from the governor of Michigan about poisonous drinking water in the town of Flint:
BREAKING: Rick Snyder will testify in front of Congress on Feb. 3 https://t.co/iwW2OzfjuGBREAKING: Rick Snyder will testify in front of Congress on Feb. 3 https://t.co/iwW2OzfjuG
Read Joanna Walters’ profile of Snyder here:Read Joanna Walters’ profile of Snyder here:
Related: Flint water crisis: governor's brand of corporate politics set stage for disasterRelated: Flint water crisis: governor's brand of corporate politics set stage for disaster
7.05pm GMT7.05pm GMT
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The Guardian’s David Smith is following Ted Cruz at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire:The Guardian’s David Smith is following Ted Cruz at Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire:
Ted Cruz: I love New Hampshire but it is cold. I have to admit I’ve taken my cowboy boots off.Ted Cruz: I love New Hampshire but it is cold. I have to admit I’ve taken my cowboy boots off.
Cruz: “I am really encouraged what we’re seeing on the ground. We are running in New Hampshire a grassroots campaign.”Cruz: “I am really encouraged what we’re seeing on the ground. We are running in New Hampshire a grassroots campaign.”
Cruz: What’s great in New Hampshire is that every one of you is performing a service to Americans.Cruz: What’s great in New Hampshire is that every one of you is performing a service to Americans.
Cruz: Playing Monopoly is the closest I've ever been to being Donald Trump. I drive my wife mad by playing iPhone games.Cruz: Playing Monopoly is the closest I've ever been to being Donald Trump. I drive my wife mad by playing iPhone games.
Cruz on fantasy dinner party: Sitting down with Jesus Christ would be an amazing experience.Cruz on fantasy dinner party: Sitting down with Jesus Christ would be an amazing experience.
That would be amazing.That would be amazing.
6.52pm GMT6.52pm GMT
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Adam Gabbatt prepares to check out the other Brooklyn.Adam Gabbatt prepares to check out the other Brooklyn.
Is Brooklyn, Iowa, for Bernie? I'm about to find out pic.twitter.com/JCPG0OrU7EIs Brooklyn, Iowa, for Bernie? I'm about to find out pic.twitter.com/JCPG0OrU7E
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Clinton sends army of surrogates to IowaClinton sends army of surrogates to Iowa
Lauren GambinoLauren Gambino
There’s probably no one in the race who could (literally, not figuratively) win a shouting match against Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, whose trademark is a full-throated tirade against the billionaire class, writes the Guardian’s Lauren Gambino:There’s probably no one in the race who could (literally, not figuratively) win a shouting match against Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, whose trademark is a full-throated tirade against the billionaire class, writes the Guardian’s Lauren Gambino:
But locked in a tight race with just days to go before voting begins, Hillary Clinton is dispatching actors, athletes, musicians, politicians, activists and family members across the Hawkeye state to help her turn up the volume on the campaign trail.But locked in a tight race with just days to go before voting begins, Hillary Clinton is dispatching actors, athletes, musicians, politicians, activists and family members across the Hawkeye state to help her turn up the volume on the campaign trail.
In lieu of the former secretary of state, Iowans can catch Julián Castro, former mayor of San Antonio and secretary of Housing and Urban Development; actress and activists Jamie Lee Curtis; athlete and activist Billie Jean King; Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund; Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York; Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia; Stephanie Schriock, President of EMILY’s List; Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey; and Scandal actor Tony Goldwyn.In lieu of the former secretary of state, Iowans can catch Julián Castro, former mayor of San Antonio and secretary of Housing and Urban Development; actress and activists Jamie Lee Curtis; athlete and activist Billie Jean King; Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund; Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York; Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia; Stephanie Schriock, President of EMILY’s List; Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey; and Scandal actor Tony Goldwyn.
Clinton has even more politicians, entertainers and athletes – plus husband Bill and daughter Chelsea – fanning out across other key early-voting states, including New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada in the coming days and weeks.Clinton has even more politicians, entertainers and athletes – plus husband Bill and daughter Chelsea – fanning out across other key early-voting states, including New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada in the coming days and weeks.
A much smaller group of surrogates will hit the trail on Sanders’ behalf. They include rapper and activist Killer Mike; professor Cornel West; Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream; and climate activist Bill McKibben, to name a few.A much smaller group of surrogates will hit the trail on Sanders’ behalf. They include rapper and activist Killer Mike; professor Cornel West; Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream; and climate activist Bill McKibben, to name a few.
6.03pm GMT6.03pm GMT
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“People accuse me of playing the gender card,” Clinton says. “Well, if fighting for women’s health, and equal rights, and equal pay is paying the gender card – deal me in.”“People accuse me of playing the gender card,” Clinton says. “Well, if fighting for women’s health, and equal rights, and equal pay is paying the gender card – deal me in.”
5.57pm GMT5.57pm GMT
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Clinton attacks Sanders on health careClinton attacks Sanders on health care
Atop the blog, live now: Hillary Clinton on the stump in Indianola, Iowa. She’s taking it to Sanders on health care.Atop the blog, live now: Hillary Clinton on the stump in Indianola, Iowa. She’s taking it to Sanders on health care.
“Senator Sanders and I share many of the same goals,” Clinton says, but they have different ways of going about them.“Senator Sanders and I share many of the same goals,” Clinton says, but they have different ways of going about them.
“Take health care,” she says. “I want us to defend and build on the progress we have made under president Obama with the Affordable Care Act. ... I want to keep going, keep expanding coverage to more people.“Take health care,” she says. “I want us to defend and build on the progress we have made under president Obama with the Affordable Care Act. ... I want to keep going, keep expanding coverage to more people.
“We can get this done without another divisive debate about our entire health care system and without giving Republicans a window to tear down” what we’ve built.“We can get this done without another divisive debate about our entire health care system and without giving Republicans a window to tear down” what we’ve built.
“Rather than build on the progress we’ve made,” Clinton continues, “[Sanders] wants to start over from scratch with a whole new system.“Rather than build on the progress we’ve made,” Clinton continues, “[Sanders] wants to start over from scratch with a whole new system.
“In theory, there’s a lot to like about some of his ideas, but in theory isn’t enough. A president has to deliver in reality.”“In theory, there’s a lot to like about some of his ideas, but in theory isn’t enough. A president has to deliver in reality.”
New Clinton argument: Sanders has been in Washington for 25 years, hasn't gotten 1 vote on his health care plan.New Clinton argument: Sanders has been in Washington for 25 years, hasn't gotten 1 vote on his health care plan.
UpdatedUpdated
at 6.00pm GMTat 6.00pm GMT
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The campaign of former governor Mike Huckabee has announced that the Republican candidate will be performing with 80’s rock band FireHouse at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, tomorrow night.The campaign of former governor Mike Huckabee has announced that the Republican candidate will be performing with 80’s rock band FireHouse at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, tomorrow night.
“I’m thrilled about rocking-out with FireHouse in one of the coolest music venues in the world,” Huckabee says in a statement. “We want everyone to come out and join us for some great music and great times.”“I’m thrilled about rocking-out with FireHouse in one of the coolest music venues in the world,” Huckabee says in a statement. “We want everyone to come out and join us for some great music and great times.”
It’s strange that the Huckabee press release says the former governor will “shred base guitar” – as it’s properly a bass guitar and not shreddable so much as slappable. Anyway this is FireHouse:It’s strange that the Huckabee press release says the former governor will “shred base guitar” – as it’s properly a bass guitar and not shreddable so much as slappable. Anyway this is FireHouse:
(h/t: @bencjacobs)(h/t: @bencjacobs)
5.44pm GMT5.44pm GMT
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Adam GabbattAdam Gabbatt
The Guardian’s Adam Gabbatt is on the trail in Iowa, where he checks in with some Nurses for Bernie – and prepares himself for a Demi Lovato performance in support of Clinton.The Guardian’s Adam Gabbatt is on the trail in Iowa, where he checks in with some Nurses for Bernie – and prepares himself for a Demi Lovato performance in support of Clinton.
“I met up with some people from National Nurses United yesterday,” Adam writes:“I met up with some people from National Nurses United yesterday,” Adam writes:
They’ve got themselves a big bus and they have been following Bernie Sanders all over Iowa. They’ll be trekking across the state until the caucuses on February 1.They’ve got themselves a big bus and they have been following Bernie Sanders all over Iowa. They’ll be trekking across the state until the caucuses on February 1.
Jean Ross is one of the organisation’s co-chairs. She is from Minnesota. But she really likes Bernie so she has flown south for the winter.Jean Ross is one of the organisation’s co-chairs. She is from Minnesota. But she really likes Bernie so she has flown south for the winter.
She said the nurses have been signing people up for caucuses: “And basically explaining to them why the nation’s most trusted profession supports Bernie”.She said the nurses have been signing people up for caucuses: “And basically explaining to them why the nation’s most trusted profession supports Bernie”.
They’re averaging about four cities a day. I told Ross that the schedule sounded exhausting.They’re averaging about four cities a day. I told Ross that the schedule sounded exhausting.
“Have you every seen nurses work!?” she said.“Have you every seen nurses work!?” she said.
Here’s their bus, right behind Bernie’s:Here’s their bus, right behind Bernie’s:
Tonight I’ll be in Iowa City, where Demi Lovato is performing at a Hillary Clinton rally. It should be exciting. I have never seen Demi Lovato live before.Tonight I’ll be in Iowa City, where Demi Lovato is performing at a Hillary Clinton rally. It should be exciting. I have never seen Demi Lovato live before.
My favourite tune from her extensive back catalogue is “Give Your Heart A Break”. It’s really good.My favourite tune from her extensive back catalogue is “Give Your Heart A Break”. It’s really good.
5.23pm GMT5.23pm GMT
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The Clinton camp is out with a new video in which foreign policy adviser Jake Sullivan picks apart what he says are flaws in rival Bernie Sanders’ thinking on foreign policy.The Clinton camp is out with a new video in which foreign policy adviser Jake Sullivan picks apart what he says are flaws in rival Bernie Sanders’ thinking on foreign policy.
The video is a model of calm argumentation. Sullivan sits in a cubicle at what looks like campaign headquarters and speaks directly to camera. “I have the greatest respect for senator Sanders,” he says, “but when you look at the rest of his ideas, they just don’t make a lot of sense.”The video is a model of calm argumentation. Sullivan sits in a cubicle at what looks like campaign headquarters and speaks directly to camera. “I have the greatest respect for senator Sanders,” he says, “but when you look at the rest of his ideas, they just don’t make a lot of sense.”
The video follows the release on Tuesday of a letter sent by 10 former senior US diplomats and national security officials calling Sanders’s foreign policy agenda “troubling” and “puzzling.”The video follows the release on Tuesday of a letter sent by 10 former senior US diplomats and national security officials calling Sanders’s foreign policy agenda “troubling” and “puzzling.”
Sanders replied to the letter by pointing out that “on the crucial foreign policy issue of our time, it turns out that Secretary Clinton – with all of her experience – was wrong and I was right.”Sanders replied to the letter by pointing out that “on the crucial foreign policy issue of our time, it turns out that Secretary Clinton – with all of her experience – was wrong and I was right.”
(h/t: @jeneps)(h/t: @jeneps)
5.11pm GMT5.11pm GMT
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“You say funny ha-ha, I say Honey Boo-Boo, but I also say Honey Nut Cheerios, they’re great!”“You say funny ha-ha, I say Honey Boo-Boo, but I also say Honey Nut Cheerios, they’re great!”
Stephen Colbert turns in a pretty solid Sarah Palin impression, beginning at 4:10 in the clip below. Drawing on Allen Ginsberg’s Howl and Disney’s The Little Mermaid, among other sources for inspiration:Stephen Colbert turns in a pretty solid Sarah Palin impression, beginning at 4:10 in the clip below. Drawing on Allen Ginsberg’s Howl and Disney’s The Little Mermaid, among other sources for inspiration:
(h/t: @aaronblakewp)(h/t: @aaronblakewp)
5.00pm GMT5.00pm GMT
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Planned Parenthood: abortion will be 'defining issue'Planned Parenthood: abortion will be 'defining issue'
Lauren GambinoLauren Gambino
On the 43rd anniversary of Roe v Wade, Planned Parenthood president Cecile Richards said there has never been a more important election for women’s rights, writes the Guardian’s Lauren Gambino:On the 43rd anniversary of Roe v Wade, Planned Parenthood president Cecile Richards said there has never been a more important election for women’s rights, writes the Guardian’s Lauren Gambino:
“There’s never been an election in which Roe was more clearly on the ballot,” Richards told reporters on Thursday. “I do think it’s going to be a defining issue for voters all across the country.”“There’s never been an election in which Roe was more clearly on the ballot,” Richards told reporters on Thursday. “I do think it’s going to be a defining issue for voters all across the country.”
At least one and as many as four supreme court appointments are likely to fall to the next president. A conservative majority could overturn Roe V Wade, the 1973 decision protecting a woman’s right to choose.At least one and as many as four supreme court appointments are likely to fall to the next president. A conservative majority could overturn Roe V Wade, the 1973 decision protecting a woman’s right to choose.
“Young people in America cannot imagine, and are only now beginning to come to grips with the fact, that there are folks in this country who are either in elective office or are trying to get into elective office that would take away a right that has been the law of the land now for more than 40 years,” Richards said. “It’s been an enormous wake-up call.”“Young people in America cannot imagine, and are only now beginning to come to grips with the fact, that there are folks in this country who are either in elective office or are trying to get into elective office that would take away a right that has been the law of the land now for more than 40 years,” Richards said. “It’s been an enormous wake-up call.”
Planned Parenthood has endorsed Hillary Clinton for president, the organization’s first-ever primary endorsement in its century-long existence.Planned Parenthood has endorsed Hillary Clinton for president, the organization’s first-ever primary endorsement in its century-long existence.
On Wednesday, Clinton’s rival, Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, deemed Planned Parenthood and the host of other liberal organizations and labor unions backing Clinton part of the “establishment”.On Wednesday, Clinton’s rival, Vermont senator Bernie Sanders, deemed Planned Parenthood and the host of other liberal organizations and labor unions backing Clinton part of the “establishment”.
Sanders said on MSNBC that his campaign is not only taking on Wall Street and the economic elite, but the “political establishment” as well.Sanders said on MSNBC that his campaign is not only taking on Wall Street and the economic elite, but the “political establishment” as well.
“I have friends and supporters in the Human Rights Fund and Planned Parenthood,” Sanders said, referring to two organizations that have endorsed Clinton. “But you know what? Hillary Clinton has been around there for a very, very long time. Some of these groups are, in fact, part of the establishment.”“I have friends and supporters in the Human Rights Fund and Planned Parenthood,” Sanders said, referring to two organizations that have endorsed Clinton. “But you know what? Hillary Clinton has been around there for a very, very long time. Some of these groups are, in fact, part of the establishment.”
Clinton quickly hit back, defending Planned Parenthood: “I wish it were [establishment]. If it were part of the establishment, we wouldn’t have to work so hard to protect it.”Clinton quickly hit back, defending Planned Parenthood: “I wish it were [establishment]. If it were part of the establishment, we wouldn’t have to work so hard to protect it.”
Related: Planned Parenthood's Cecile Richards: 'In this election, Roe v Wade is on the ballot'Related: Planned Parenthood's Cecile Richards: 'In this election, Roe v Wade is on the ballot'