What Went Down At The January Democratic Debate

Sure, Nate, I think when talking about foreign policy, presidential candidates have to talk about that. It’s obviously not a singular defining force, but I’m marveling over its staying power (because we’re still in the Middle East). But I will say that I think Biden is something of a special case because being Obama’s VP helped perhaps launder some of his reputation in certain ways, something we’ve talked about throughout the primary.

CNN tried to set up a Klobuchar-Buttigieg conflict. In December’s debate, Klobuchar went after Buttigieg’s experience and electability. Tonight she pivoted away from attacking Buttigieg, saying she respects his military experience. Instead, she maneuvered to say her Senate experience has given her knowledge of a host of issues. Naturally, she also takes a shot at Trump’s handling of foreign policy.

Are we actually sure it’s defining elections, Clare? It doesn’t seem to have hurt Biden very much — although it may be a more salient issue now than it had been before.