Lost in the many efforts to put a negative spin on a few of Hillary Clinton’s comments during the last debate was the fact that Bernie Sanders, for one, heartily approved and agreed with her on them:

In Saturday’s Democratic debate, Hillary briefly recalled her work as New York’s junior senator in the aftermath of the 9/11 attack: "I did spend a whole lot of time and effort helping them rebuild; that was good for New York, that was good for the economy and it was a way to rebuke the terrorists who had attacked our country.”

Later in the debate Bernie Sanders agreed: “I applaud Secretary Clinton. She did. She's the senator from New York. She worked – and many of us supported you – in trying to rebuild that devastation.”

Much as Al Franken surprised many observers by being a hardworking, no-nonsense senator, Hillary Clinton as senator made a very good impression on all kinds of persons.  New Yorker Tom Watson reports:

I was working as a consultant, and our firm was involved on a pro bono basis in various aspects of serving the families of the uniformed personnel killed at the Twin Towers. It was an emotional, grinding, exhausting time and in comparison to the sacrifice of those who literally gave their lives for fellow New Yorkers that day, our contribution was minimal and in many ways, the very least we could do. 

But I remember a meeting of officials late one evening. All Republicans – and if you recall that era, the New York firmament was dominated by the GOP (though in retrospect, a far more liberal brand than their current successors). The meeting included commissioners and key political figures. Names you would know. They were talking politics. This former Bronx political reporter was listening silently (always the best method of journalism) as they turned to gossiping about their Democratic counterparts. Who, someone asked, has been the biggest surprise? 

“Hillary.” 

“Really, why?” 

“She just works. She’s not trying to get into the photo. She’s completely briefed and knows the details.” 

“That surprises me.” 

“Also, she’s great with the families. She takes time. She’s not like she is on TV.” 

Res ipsa loquiter.