The Democratic party establishment is grappling with the increasing likelihood that Bernie Sanders, a self-proclaimed socialist, will be its presidential nominee after his victory in the Nevada caucuses. Sanders’ win showcased his popularity among a more representative chunk of the Democratic base, including Latinos, African-Americans and union members.
In the next eight days, 15 crucial elections will take place, with the nomination potentially secured after South Carolina votes on Saturday or after Super Tuesday on 3 March. Centrists have failed to coalesce around a moderate candidate, leaving the path open for Sanders.
However, Sanders faced criticism for comments made in a 60 Minutes interview broadcast on Sunday. He said Fidel Castro did some good things, such as a massive literacy program, despite opposing the “authoritarian nature” of Cuba. Florida Democrats Donna Shalala and Debbie Mucarsel-Powell were among those to criticise his muted praise for the deceased Cuban president.
Former New York mayor Mike Bloomberg, who has spent more than $460m of his own money on his campaign, also targeted Sanders on gun control. The Bloomberg campaign released a video highlighting Sanders’ mixed record, including past support from the National Rifle Association and votes against waiting periods and background checks. Bloomberg has poured money into the gun control movement but faces scrutiny over his own record on stop-and-frisk policing.
The favoured centrist candidate in South Carolina remains Joe Biden, who is popular with African American voters. A CBS News poll taken before Nevada showed Biden leading in South Carolina with 28% support, followed by Sanders on 23% and Tom Steyer on 18%. In 2016, Hillary Clinton dominated the state with 73% of the vote.
