Iowa Democrats are wrestling with a conundrum:  They’re on board with Hillary Clinton this time, but are simultaneously drawn to the idea of a fresh face representing a new generation.

A new poll, commissioned by the Des Moines Register, finds likely caucus-goers divided over their preferred trait of a 2016 contender.

Whereas 49 percent chose “a fresh face who will represent a new generation with new ideas,” 48 percent selected “a candidate with decades of public service in the U.S. Senate and executive branch.”

This, of course, is a much different question than posing the horse race query, but it offers a sliver of evidence that there’s room for an outside, insurgent candidate.

The name on the tip of the punditry’s mouths who could fulfill that role . . . Elizabeth Warren.

See Larry Sabato, speaking to the Register:

“I’d save 10 percent of the betting pool and put it on your favorite long shot — Elizabeth Warren, Martin O’Malley or X.”

See Ron Brownstein of The National Journal:

“If Hillary Rodham Clinton runs in 2016, the most tempting opening against her would be for a populist offering sharper confrontation, not only against the GOP but also Wall Street, big business, and the rich.  Clinton would remain favored against any rival, but if Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts thundered into that role, she would likely give the front-runner some sleepless nights.”

See Isaac Chotiner of The New Republic:

“If there is a formidable challenger, it will have to be someone who is superb at raising money; and someone who takes advantage of the opening … (even if that opening isn’t so big); and someone who can minimize Hillary Clinton’s demographic advantages.  Someone, then, will have to be some woman.  And only one comes to mind.”

 

Follow Dave’s blog at TheRun2016.com