Bernie Sanders Wins Nevada Caucus Despite Pushback in Democratic Party

Sen. Bernie Sanders wins the Nevada Democratic caucuses, becoming the clear front-runner among 2020 Democratic presidential primary election candidates.

Why it matters: Nevada is the first state with a diverse population to hold a nominating contest, highlighting candidates’ abilities to connect with voters of color — particularly Latino voters.

• «We won the popular vote in Iowa,» Sanders said in a victory speech.
• «We won the New Hampshire primary. And according to three networks and the AP, we have now won the Nevada caucus.»

With 50% of precincts reporting just before 1 am on Sunday, Sanders at 46.% had a commanding lead over his nearest rival, Joe Biden (19.2%). Pete Buttigieg was placed next with 15.4%, Elizabeth Warren was in fourth with 10.3% and Amy Klobuchar fifth (4.5%).

• Mike Bloomberg did not make the ballot in Nevada.

The big picture: This is the third straight contest where Sanders has either won or finished in a virtual tie.