Bernie Sanders Absorbs Brunt of Rivals’ Attacks in Debate Free-for-All

Biden, Warren focused criticism on both Sanders and Bloomberg
Front-runner draws tougher scrutiny on stances, plans

Mike Bloomberg says Russia is trying to help Bernie Sanders win the Democratic nomination.(Source: Bloomberg)

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By Mark Niquette, Jennifer Epstein, and Tyler Pager

February 25, 2020 at 11:26 PM UTC

Updated on

February 26, 2020 at 3:52 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Bernie Sanders felt the burden of his front-runner status in the Democratic presidential race as all six of his rivals delivered an onslaught of attacks at Tuesday night’s debate aimed at stalling his momentum before the next crucial stage of the primary race.

Elizabeth Warren accused Sanders of stealing details of her health-care plan. Michael Bloomberg said Russia’s intelligence services favor the Vermont senator because Vladimir Putin wants President Donald Trump to be re-elected. Joe Biden criticized Sanders’ past stances on gun control. Pete Buttigieg accused him of living in the past.