WASHINGTON – DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz issued the following statement on tonight’s Democratic debate in New Hampshire:

“What a debate. This was a match-up not just for Democratic voters – it was worthy of every American who cares about moving our country forward — substantive, serious, and focused on issues that matter most to hardworking Americans.

“Yes, they drew sharp distinctions, but their differences were always about how to best serve the interests of the people they’re meeting on the campaign trail, in New Hampshire, Iowa and across the country.

“This was an exciting, high-energy debate. That’s what it should be, especially as more and more voters begin to focus on the issues and prepare to vote or caucus in every state and territory.

“Our Democratic candidates in this race have the right priorities — priorities that match the values, hopes and dreams of the American people.  Tonight gave us another glimpse into why these two Democrats were able to turn out nearly as many caucus goers on Monday as eleven Republican candidates.

“But the clearest message Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders delivered in their debate tonight was this: we must elect a Democrat as the 45th president of the United States.”