Bernie Sanders attacks Trump’s ‘greed, corruption and lies’ after historic victory in Nevada

Vermont senator has now won popular vote in first three nominating states

Bernie Sanders is celebrating his win in the Nevada caucuses and setting his sights on Donald Trump as his main electoral foe.

At a rally in San Antonio, Texas, shortly after being announced as the winner in the Silver State, Mr Sanders delivered a stirring victory speech touching on a range of issues from healthcare reforms to fighting climate change to implementing stronger gun control measures.

And, taking the fight straight to the president and beyond, Mr Sanders cast Mr Trump as a corrupt politician and slammed him for his propensity for lies from the Oval Office.

“The American people are sick and tired of a government which is based on greed, corruption and lies. They want an Administration which is based on the principles of justice — economic justice, social justice, racial justice & environmental justice,” Mr Sanders said.

And, later, Mr Sanders cast the fight ahead as one of unity, and of transformation across the country.

“If we understand that we are all in this together. That my family has to care about your family. Your family has to care about my family. Brothers and sisters, if we come together, we will not only defeat Trump we will create a country an economy that works for all of us, not just the wealthy campaign contributors,” he said.

Mr Sanders had left Nevada early, even before voters in the Silver State had started caucusing in the first in the West contest.

Final results were still trickling in overnight but it became quickly apparent that Mr Sanders had won. It seems likely he will end up with twice as many votes as his nearest rival.

The first three states only award a tiny fraction of the delegates needed to capture the nomination so it remains to be seen if Mr Sanders can carry this early momentum to victory.

Trump gloated on social media and used the result to try to stoke tension between the frontrunners.

“Looks like Crazy Bernie is doing well in the Great State of Nevada. Biden & the rest look weak,” Trump tweeted. “Congratulations Bernie, & don’t let them take it away from you!”