Sanders offers credible challenge to Clinton going into debate

U.S. TV & print news, October 1 - 12, 2015

New York, October 13, 2015. As the Democratic candidates get ready to debate, Hillary Clinton remains in the media visibility lead, but strong visibility and tonality from Sanders suggests there is actual competition in the race for the party’s nomination, according to new research from Media Tenor International.

“Hillary Clinton has been the presumptive Democratic nominee for some time,” says Racheline Maltese, a researcher at Media Tenor. “But Sanders is exceeding expectations, creating a positive cycle of strong media coverage.” There isn’t much other competition, however, Maltese notes, unless Biden gets into the race. “There’s been enthusiasm for Biden, but the moment may have passed. O’Malley has had little visibility, but does have a reputation as a strong debater. Other Democratic contenders, such as Jim Webb and Lincoln Chafee, haven’t achieved notable visibility in analyzed media.”

Media Tenor has found that key issues for the Democrats include financial regulation and gun control. However, Hillary Clinton’s email scandal and the Benghazi hearings have impacted the agenda.

This research examined all 1,369 reports on political figures on three U.S. TV news programs and in seven print publications from October 1 - 12, 2015.

For over 20 years Media Tenor’s mission has been to contribute to objective, diverse and newsworthy media content by bringing together the diverse parties. Media Tenor’s global research projects include analyses of election campaigns, investor relations, public diplomacy, corporate communications and other topics critical to news makers and news audiences. For more information, please contact Racheline Maltese at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or +1 212-935-0210.