Booker criticizes debate for pitting Democrats against one another

Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) warned that pitting Democratic candidates against each other during Wednesday’s debate gives President Trump an advantage.

“The person that’s enjoying this debate most right now is Donald Trump, as we pit Democrats against each other while he is working right now to take away Americans’ health care,” Booker said onstage in Detroit.

Booker’s words came after his competitors clashed over health care. 

Trump’s campaign quickly took note, with communications director Tim Murtaugh tweeting Booker was correct.  

Cory Booker: “The person who is enjoying this debate the most right now is Donald Trump.”

Fact Check: TRUE

— Tim Murtaugh (@TimMurtaugh) August 1, 2019

{mosads}Booker seemed to call for unity among Democrats, which he has campaigned on throughout his presidential run. 

The senator is in need of a breakout moment as he continues to struggle to break out from the crowded Democratic pack.

Booker was widely expected to go on the offensive, particularly against front-runner former Vice President Joe Biden in an effort to gain more traction. 

The senator hit the former vice president on criminal justice earlier this month, targeting him specifically over his support of the 1994 crime bill in the senate.