October surprise
今回のOctober surpriseは，外交問題であるイランとの核開発に関する協議のうわさ（NYT, 0ct. 21）ではなく，ハリケーンにもっていかれそうです。
このOctober Surpriseとは，大統領選挙が実施される年の10月におこるとされている事件を示し，投票行動に少なからず影響を与えるような突発的な事件，出来事（"an unexpected, but popular, political act made just prior to a November election, in an attempt to win votes"）を総称した言い回しです。（UG）
EAST COAST STORM WREAKS HAVOC ON PRESIDENTIAL RACE
CELINA, Ohio (AP) -- Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama frantically sought to close the deal with voters with precious few days left in an incredibly close race as this year's October surprise - an unprecedented storm menacing the East Coast - wreaked havoc on their best-laid plans.
Ever mindful of his narrow path to the requisite 270 electoral votes, Romney looked to expand his map, weighing an intensified effort in traditionally left-leaning Minnesota. Obama sought to defend historically Democratic turf as the race tightened heading into the final week.
