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Politics

James Carville ‘Doubling Down’ on Kamala Harris Victory Prediction

By Jake Beardslee · October 22, 2024

Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville has doubled down on his prediction of Vice President Harris's victory over former President Trump in the upcoming presidential election, despite tight polling numbers suggesting a close race.  GABY VELASQUEZ/ EL PASO TIMES / USA TODAY NETWORK

During a recent appearance on MSNBC's "The Beat with host Ari Melber," Carville stated, "I think that Harris is going to win," while acknowledging the possibility of being wrong.

“Let me just say that out front. I’m doubling down on that,” Carville added, but warned, “I could be wrong.”  Michael Blackshire/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

The former Clinton campaign architect, known for engineering the successful 1992 presidential campaign, has consistently expressed optimism about Harris's chances in recent weeks.  Adam Vander Kooy / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

This latest prediction follows Carville's earlier statements from September, when he shared his intuitive assessment with CNN's Anderson Cooper, saying, "I don't like to predict elections. I would just say, this just doesn't feel like a race that Harris is going to lose." However, he emphasized that this was "just a feeling."  Cheryl Evans/The Republic

In a more recent conversation with CNN's Michael Smerconish, Carville provided a more nuanced analysis of the electoral landscape.  Michael Blackshire/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

While noting Harris's slight lead, he emphasized the crucial role of battleground states in determining the ultimate victor.

"I think it will break at the end. I think someone will carry swing states 5-2 or 6-1," he explained, adding that the winner's success would likely extend to congressional races.  Audrey Richardson/Detroit Free Press / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Carville also raised concerns about Trump's campaign rhetoric, suggesting that the upcoming election has significant constitutional implications.  Angela Wilhelm/Citizen Times / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images