New York Times Endorses Clinton & Kasich; Final Iowa Poll Released Tonight

The New York Times has endorsed former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination while giving the nod to Ohio Governor John Kasich for the Republican nomination.

The Times says that, in Clinton, the Democrats "have the chance to nominate one of the most broadly and deeply qualified presidential candidates in modern history." While complimentary of Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, the Times says that he "does not have the breadth of experience or policy ideas that Mrs. Clinton offers."

As might be expected, the paper was not as glowing about the Republican field, finding businessman Donald Trump and Texas Senator Ted Cruz "equally objectionable for different reasons." In a lesser-of-evils pick, the times gives the nod to Kasich: "...though a distinct underdog, is the only plausible choice for Republicans tired of the extremism and inexperience on display in this race."

Iowa Poll

The pre-caucus Des Moines Register Poll, conducted by the well-respected pollster Selzer & Company, will be released this evening at 6:45PM ET. This should be our final look at how Iowa is shaping up before the actual caucuses take place. Their last poll showed Ted Cruz with a three point lead over Donald Trump, down from ten points before Christmas.

More recent Iowa polls have shown Trump ahead, averaging a 6 point average lead over Cruz. Marco Rubio has been showing signs of strength as well, possibly helped by the Register's recent endorsement of him.