Hillary Clinton asks Bernie Sanders to cut out a 'very artful smear'

Hillary Clinton asks Bernie Sanders to say it to her face

(Image credit: Getty Images)

last updated 5 February 2016

At Thursday night's debate, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) touted the fact that, unlike Hillary Clinton, he doesn't have a super PAC, especially one that has taken millions of dollars from Wall Street. When it was her turn, Clinton said that Sanders has been making these "attacks by insinuation" against her for a while, and that if he has something to say to her, he should just come out and say it. There is no evidence that any of Clinton's votes have been swayed by any speaking fees or campaign donations she has received, she said, and "it's time to end the very artful smear" against her.

The "artful smear" line drew a gasp from the audience, and a raised eyebrow from Sanders. But when it was Sanders turn to respond, he declined to attack Clinton directly, instead pointing out that money influences political outcomes in Washington.

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Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.