In Democrats’ camp, Sanders, Clinton set tone for caucuses

Associated Press

DES MOINES, IOWA

Bernie Sanders sharpened the contrast with Hillary Rodham Clinton on a bevy of liberal causes Saturday, casting himself as a principled progressive before thousands of Iowa Democrats in an appearance that could set the tone for the leadoff presidential caucuses in February.

Sanders, the independent Vermont senator, never mentioned Clinton by name at the high-profile fundraising dinner but implicitly criticized her delayed opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership and Keystone XL pipeline as well as her vote in favor of the Iraq war and passage of the Defense of Marriage Act during her husband’s administration.

“I promise you tonight as your president I will govern based on principle not poll numbers,” Sanders said, eliciting roars from his supporters.

Clinton did not respond in kind, making the case that she would be best equipped to take on the Republicans. “I hear Donald Trump when he says we have to make America great again,” Clinton said. “America is great – we just have to make it fair and just.”

Clinton and Sanders sit atop a Democratic presidential field that was effectively pared down to two after Vice President Joe Biden announced this week he would not seek the nomination.

Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, who trails both by a wide margin, reached for a breakout performance at the dinner, presenting himself as a fresh face in the party, who got things done in his home state.