Shermanesque statements about her own presidential ambitions in 2016.

The allure of Warren to the Democratic base is simple: she draws the starkest contrast possible between politicians who carefully calibrate their language so as not to offend any particular constituency and those who speak clearly and directly to the frustrations Americans of all stripes, from the Tea Party to Occupy Wall Street, feel about the special interests who hold our government hostage.

Last September, Warren addressed the AFL-CIO using the kind of stark, populist language that Americans on both sides of the aisle have been hungering for.

She spoke of a rigged system that benefits Wall Street to the detriment of Main Street.

She spoke of a Supreme Court held in thrall by corporate interests.

She spoke of legislation to limit the abilityClinton brand in 2008. Then, Hillary Clinton lost the Democratic primary to a newcomer from Illinois, who became an avatar for the frustration Democrats outside the Beltway felt towards the cautious approach Washington politicians have taken towards the entrenched, special interest establishment.

In 2016, Hillary Clinton may finally become the Democratic nominee – but not before the base forces her to throw some caution to the wind and pay attention to the Elizabeth Warrens of the party.