Debate night ends honeymoon phase for Michael Bloomberg's presidential race

Mike Bloomberg remains a serious contender who moderate Democrats and skittish Republicans could still coalesce around. PHOTO: REUTERS
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WASHINGTON - Before Wednesday (Feb 19), former New York City mayor and presidential hopeful Michael Bloomberg's political fortunes had been improving and his steady rise in nationwide polls had been remarkable, aided by the fractured and unsettled Democratic race.

But the barrage of attacks he received from every other rival on stage in the opening minutes of Democratic debate debut on Wednesday ended that initial honeymoon phase.

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