Democrats: Front-runners

These top four Democratic candidates typically get the most news coverage and donations. This also means they are more likely to receive criticism from other candidates, whether on the debate stage or otherwise, due to their high standing: other candidates want to take them down. Biden, Warren and Sanders are the solid top three, with Buttigieg rising from the middle pack. 

Joe Biden, 77

Former Vice President for Barack Obama

NPA (National polling average): 27%

Important issue: 

He struggles to differentiate himself from the mistakes of the Obama administration while still using Obama’s successes to strengthen his campaign. 

Biden appeals to the moderate Democrat, which many say is necessary to defeat Trump. 

Fun fact: His middle name is Robinette. 

Elizabeth Warren, 70

Senator from Massachusetts 

NPA: 22%

Important issue: Her proposed wealth tax.

She has been criticized for her plans regarding America’s wealth inequality, especially looking at past wealth tax failures. 

Warren debates strongly, keeping a level head while showing the audience her position on certain issues. 

Fun fact: She was a law professor at many prestigious universities such as Harvard and University of Pennsylvania, specializing in bankruptcy and finance. 

Bernie Sanders, 78

Senator from Vermont

NPA: 18%

Important issue: Medicare for all and free public college. 

He was hospitalized for an emergency heart procedure in Oct., bringing questions about his health and age. 

Sanders stays consistent in the polls and manages to bring in many small individual donors for his campaign. 

Fun fact: After graduate school, he worked as a carpenter and a documentary filmmaker. 

Pete Buttigieg, 37

Mayor of South Bend, IN

NPA: 8%

Important issue: His proposed “Medicare for All Who Want it” plan.

He struggles to gain momentum in black communities and has been criticized for his political inexperience — his youth and inability to win a statewide election. 

He is currently a strong challenger to front-runner Biden in Iowa. 

Fun fact: Voted “most likely to be president” in high school.