In American political jargon, an October surprise is a news event that may influence the outcome of an upcoming election (particularly one for the U.S. presidency), whether deliberately planned or spontaneously occurring. Because the date for national elections (as well as many state and local elections) is in early November, events that take place in October have greater potential to influence the decisions of prospective voters; thus, relatively last-minute news stories could either change the course of an election or reinforce the inevitable. The term "October surprise" was coined by William Casey when he served as campaign manager of Ronald Reagan's 1980 presidential campaign.
Trump has turned America into reality television with his October Suprise. He doesn't really have covid.
by @Transient_photography October 2, 2020
Get the october suprise mug.An unexpected, dramatic last-minute event which potentially alters the outcome of an election. The term dates to the 1980 presidential campaign, in which Jimmy Carter planned, for October of that year, an operation to rescue American hostages held in Iran. Carter was lagging behind in polls and a successful rescue, an "October surprise," would likely have shifted the momentum to his side. The attempt failed, however, and Carter lost the election. Some have suggested that the Reagan campaign deliberately sabotaged the effort in order to bolster his candidacy.
Before Osama bin Laden released his newest tape, some people thought the Bush campaign would produce him as an October surprise.
by Sam Sundquist November 1, 2004
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When, in a last minute effort to become re-elected, a political figure happens upon a bit of "lucky coincidence."
News from October 31: We found Osama!
... although we really had his ass in a cell under the Pentagon the last three years.
... although we really had his ass in a cell under the Pentagon the last three years.
by K Dawg Plus September 6, 2004
Get the October Surprise mug.An October Surprise can also mean a political challenger's orchestrated and delayed release of damaging information about an incumbent opponent just in time for an election.
Some political operatives had known about Mark Foley's pecadilloes for months in advance, but chose a timed release of the news as an October Surprise.
by NickB1967 November 9, 2006
Get the October Surprise mug.When doing a girl doggy style, just before you blow your load...You smash a pumpkin over her head! Similar to a donkey punch.
by jelly tug October 18, 2008
Get the october surprise mug.by Bubbaice July 13, 2012
Get the October Surprise mug.A sexual act usually preformed outside that involves two males. One lies on his back and covers his erect penis in leaves, hence the word October in the title, while the second participant takes a running start and takes a somersault to land on the erect penis.
James told me that those fags across the street did an October sunrise in my backyard while I was on vacation.
by MeatSlaughter May 9, 2011
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