Sen. Amy Klobuchar Shines in Atlanta Debate

At their debate in Atlanta last night the Democratic contenders toned down their attacks on one another and focused on policy questions. After a blockbuster day of testimony that shredded the President's last lines of defense, each of the candidates touched on the impeachment inquiry, but they didn't allow it to overshadow their plans for the future. Voters want to know what comes after Trump and how they will repair the damage. Bernie Sanders captured that sentiment well.

Bernie Sanders, Debate: Trump is “likely the most corrupt President in the modern history of America. But we cannot simply be consumed by Donald Trump. Because if we are, we are going to lose the election."

Mayor Pete Buttigieg handled his new front-runner status well, fending off attacks on his relative inexperience. Sen. Cory Booker had a solid debate, as usual, and Sen. Kamala Harris will be remembered for pointing out how badly Trump got “punked” in his negotiations with North Korea. But, of all the candidates, Sen. Amy Klobuchar probably had the best night. She has been slowly rising in the polls, but she hasn't had her break-though moment yet. Her comments about women in politics may change that.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar, Debate: “Women are held to a higher standard. Otherwise we could play a game called ‘name your favorite women president,’ which we can’t do because it has all been men. … And if you think a woman can’t beat Donald Trump, Nancy Pelosi does it every single day.”

Klobuchar has been solid throughout the debates, consistently demonstrating her grasp of the issues. Her strengths are electability and Senate experience, but she is perceived as rather bland and uninspiring. She has focused on what she believes are obtainable goals like expanding Obamacare and making college more affordable, rather than rolling out grander initiatives like "Medicare for All" and free tuition programs. Her reticence may still sink her campaign, but last night she shined and voters were paying attention. She was one of the most searched candidates on Google after the debate.

During the debate, long-time Democratic political strategist, Mo Elleithee, tweeted this:

Mo Elleithee, Twitter: "@amyklobuchar is the most underrated debater in the field. She has had standout moments in every single debate, delivering answers that are substantive, powerful and personal. And she knows how to draw contrast without coming across as negative. She’s very good in this format."

The question is whether enough Democratic voters in Iowa and New Hampshire agree.

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By: Don Lam & Curated Content