This year's 'October surprise' may be no surprise at all

It is not uncommon for political commentators to call a late-breaking story during a presidential election an "October surprise" — even when there is little evidence that it mattered all that much.

This year's 'October surprise' may be no surprise at all
"I Voted Early" stickers are made available at the Minneapolis Elections & Voter Services building on Sept. 20 in Minneapolis, Minn., on the first day of early voting in the state.

It is not uncommon for political commentators to call a late-breaking story during a presidential election an "October surprise" — even when there is little evidence that it mattered all that much.

(Image credit: Stephen Maturen)