Updated Feb 23, 2020 - Politics & Policy

Joe Biden places second in Nevada caucuses, ahead of Pete Buttigieg

Rebecca Falconer

Democratic presidential hopeful and former Vice President Joe Biden gestures as he speaks at a Nevada Caucus watch party on February 22, 2020, in Las Vegas — Joe Biden at a Nevada Caucus watch party in Las Vegas on Saturday. Photo: Ronda Churchill/AFP via Getty Images

Former Vice President Joe Biden secured second place in the Nevada Democratic caucuses with former Southbend Mayor Pete Buttigieg third, according to NBC News projections Sunday.

Why it matters: It's a boost for Biden, who's expected to be endorsed by House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) on Wednesday, ahead of this week's South Carolina primary.

By the numbers: With almost 88% of precincts reporting, Sen. Bernie Sanders has gained 47.1% of Nevada votes, Biden has 20.9% and Buttigieg has 13.6%.

The big picture: Biden saw his national polling numbers plummet this month after his fourth-place finish in the Feb. 3 Iowa caucuses.

What he's saying: "The press is ready to declare people dead quickly," Biden told supporters on Saturday night. "But we're alive and we're coming back and we’re gonna win."

Flashback: Bernie Sanders wins Nevada caucuses

Editor's note: This article has been updated with new details throughout.

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Joe Biden places second in Nevada caucuses, ahead of Pete Buttigieg

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