The history of the 'October surprise'

Here & Now Anytime · Oct 20, 2026 · 24m

An ‘October surprise’ is a scandal or newsmaking event that can influence voters just weeks before Election Day. Princeton University professor Julian Zelizer looks back at historic October surprises since the term was coined in the 1980s and before.

Then, the number of people receiving federal food assistance has hit its lowest point in nearly 20 years. Food policy journalist Helena Bottemiller Evich explains how need for assistance is still there, but policy changes have made it harder to access.

And, do you know the origins of phrases like “seize the day” and “let them eat cake”? Author…