In a First, Bernie Sanders Leads Clinton in Iowa

A Quinnipiac poll out today brings an unwelcome milestone for Hillary Clinton: She trails for the first time in Iowa to Bernie Sanders, 41% to 40%. That's within the poll's margin of error but still a notable shift from July, when she was way out in front 52% to 33%. Previous polls have shown that Sanders also is leading in New Hampshire, and with all the usual caveats about early-state polls, the two taken together should give the Clinton camp plenty to think about. Here's a sampling of reaction:

• Time: Sanders' "rapid gain on Clinton in Iowa and New Hampshire reflects broader concern among liberal Democrats with economic inequality, college affordability, healthcare and campaign finance reform, issues that Sanders has trumpeted throughout his campaign."

• Politico: The "shift is a significant one, coming on the heels of polls showing Sanders edging Clinton in New Hampshire, too. Together, the results suggest a candidate reeling from the controversy over her emails and struggling to put down a rebellion on her left flank."
• CNN: "For Clinton, the poll will come as a sharp reminder of her 2008 race, when she also faltered in Iowa despite her once-inevitable nominee status."

Click to read about a plan Clinton endorses—that could actually give Sanders a big edge. (More Bernie Sanders 2016 stories.)