With all of the attention focused on the 16 (Yes, there are still 16!) major Republican candidates for the 2016 presidential nomination, no one would be blamed for forgetting about the Democratic party and its candidates for president.

There are two major Democratic candidates who are running for president, each with specific strengths and potential weaknesses. Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders are the two currently running Democratic candidates who have the greatest shot at holding down the White House once Barack Obama leaves in 2017.

Clinton, who was the presumed nominee a few months ago, is no longer certain as the Democratic option. The wife of former President Bill Clinton has experience as both the first female senator from New York and more recently as secretary of state for President Obama.

Her political experience has allowed her to forge relationships in Washington D.C. that have resulted in endorsements from 24 past and present governors and 35 US senators among others. In addition to this, she has out-fundraised Sanders by over $52 million.

Clinton has stumbled along the way, however, as a scandal is raging over her use of a private email account. Her sending of classified information using a private email server and her response to the questions raised about it has led to concerns over her trustworthiness. Moreover, some voters question whether they want a potential political dynasty in place. A Monmouth University poll this month showed that her numbers have dropped to votes from 42% of Democratic voters, which is a drop of 18 points since April.

Although Bernie Sanders is rising in the polls, he faces a different set of challenges than Clinton. Sanders is a self-described “Democratic Socialist,” which means that he supports policies similar to those of Scandinavian democracies. These countries have a democratic system of government with higher taxes on the wealthy, more governmental regulation, and more welfare and social services. 

An advantage that Sanders holds is that the people whom his message seems to be reaching are passionate in their support, resulting in an energetic grassroots campaign. Over 10,000 people heard Sanders speak recently in Madison, Wisconsin, and $15 million has been raised in small contributions. This suggests that his followers are engaged in and enthusiastic about his campaign.

 While Clinton and Sanders have established themselves as the Democratic frontrunners, the race is further complicated by the potential for a run by Vice-President Joe Biden. His entry into the race would shake things up and create more of the diverse field that their Republican counterparts are currently experiencing.

It is easy to get caught up in the constant news about Donald Trump, but voters should not forget that America has two parties to choose from come November.