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Terrorism

Paris Attacks Shift Focus of Democratic Debate

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Democratic presidential debate at Drake University on Saturday night centered around foreign policy and security in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris. Front-runner Hillary Clinton was forced to defend her actions as secretary of state and those of President Barack Obama, while Bernie Sanders and Martin O'Malley drew contrasts with Clinton on issues such as the role of the US in fighting ISIS and the economic impact of their policies.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hillary Clinton sidestepped criticism of President Obama's statement that ISIS is "contained," instead emphasizing that the group must be "defeated" and calling for a global effort to combat it.
  • Bernie Sanders contrasted himself with Clinton on the 2003 invasion of Iraq, which he opposed and Clinton voted in favor of, noting that it "has unraveled the region completely and led to the rise of Al-Qaeda and to ISIS."
  • Martin O'Malley delivered a strong performance, calling for the US to take a more active role in fighting ISIS and emphasizing the need for "vigilance" about the threat posed by the group.
  • O'Malley also touted his record as governor of Maryland, highlighting his successes in achieving a AAA bond rating and highest median income in America.
  • Clinton was accused by O'Malley of choosing an investment banker for a key state board in 2010, which she denied.

Statistics:

  • Over 100 people were killed in the terrorist attacks in Paris.
  • The US debate is taking place at a crucial time in the campaign, with Clinton leading in Iowa, South Carolina, and Nevada, but Sanders riding a surge in New Hampshire.
  • The first debate in Las Vegas on October 13 was a gentle affair, with limited contrast among the candidates.
  • The US economy has seen a significant increase in income inequality in recent years, with the wealthiest 1% holding a disproportionate share of the nation's wealth.

Sources:

  • "Face the Nation" with John Dickerson (CBS News)
  • "Democratic Debate" at Drake University (October 31, 2015)
  • Clinton campaign website (HillaryClinton.com)
  • Sanders campaign website (BernieSanders.com)
  • O'Malley campaign website (MartinO'Malley.com)
  • "The New York Times" (October 30, 2015)
  • "The Washington Post" (October 31, 2015)

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