The final Democratic presidential debate before the first states begin voting was marked by heated exchanges between Hillary Clinton and Senator Bernie Sanders on Wall Street regulation, guns and who would best preserve the legacy of President Obama. Many commentators from across the web thought that a more aggressive Mr. Sanders gave himself a boost by taking Mrs. Clinton on more forcefully. She scored points on his shifting positions on guns and taxes, but was not seen as dealing any decisive blows. Martin O’Malley, meanwhile, was most notable for his unsuccessful efforts to get a word in.

“Bernie needed an overwhelming victory in tonight’s Democrat debate. At best, he got a narrow one. That won’t be enough to win the Dem nomination. Martin O’Malley’s biggest mistake tonight was not bringing his guitar to the podium.” — Frank Luntz, a prominent Republican pollster

“If Hillary hugged Obama any tighter tonight Michelle would’ve had to step in.” — Jason Johnson, political science professor at Hiram College and politics editor at The Root

“Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders offered the louder and bolder vision tonight in South Carolina, channeling some of the anger that’s blossoming in both parties in 2016.” — Rick Klein, political director of ABC News