TLDR:
• Trump advisers push premature victory
• Allies warn against misjudged declarations
• Harris campaign braces for Trump claims
PALM BEACH (The Thursday Times) — Donald Trump has been advised by some of his closest aides to declare victory early on election night if he appears to have an advantage in key battleground states. This strategy hinges on whether Trump gains a substantial lead, particularly in states like Pennsylvania, where a premature declaration could influence perceptions. However, the decision remains unclear, and whether Trump heeds this advice will be dictated by the unfolding dynamics of the evening.
Early victory declaration pressure
Trump’s campaign has faced mounting pressure from within, as advisers argue that the former president has little to lose by declaring victory if he is ahead by several hundred thousand votes. According to insiders, the thinking is to capitalise on momentum and create a narrative of success, even if the official results are not yet confirmed. This approach, however, has its critics within Trump’s own circle, with allies like former White House strategist Steve Bannon cautioning against making premature statements. Bannon and others have warned that such a move could backfire, especially if the margins narrow as counting continues, making the campaign appear desperate or out of touch with reality.
Despite these reservations, Trump and his team have maintained a confident front in the final days leading up to the election. This confidence has energised his supporters, some of whom are already prepared to question the legitimacy of the results if Vice President Kamala Harris emerges victorious. The spectre of 2020 looms large, as the groundwork for challenging a potential defeat has already been laid. The Harris campaign is reportedly bracing for any attempts by Trump to prematurely claim the presidency, well aware of the precedent set four years ago.
Trump’s unpredictability looms
The unpredictability of Trump’s behaviour remains a central concern. Advisers close to the campaign concede that the former president often follows his own instincts, which could override any carefully laid plans. If Trump decides to declare victory, he is likely to act on impulse, and the travel-weary nature of his campaign team may weaken their influence over his decisions. The scenario presents a stark reminder of Trump’s previous disregard for established norms in presidential politics, once again upending traditional expectations.
Whether Trump will address the nation from Mar-a-Lago or hold off until his campaign’s official event at a nearby convention centre remains uncertain. Sources say that if he does decide to make an early declaration, he will travel by motorcade to the public event. If he opts against declaring victory, it is possible he may not make an appearance at all. The lack of clarity reflects a more restrained, though still unpredictable, approach compared to 2020, when Trump had already telegraphed his intentions to his closest allies.
Harris campaign prepared
The Harris campaign has remained vigilant, preparing for the possibility of Trump claiming victory without waiting for a full count. The vice president’s team has closely studied Trump’s tactics from the previous election, readying a strategy to counter any unfounded claims. The campaign is also monitoring Trump’s private watch party at Mar-a-Lago, which is expected to draw a mix of family, friends, and prominent donors. This gathering is said to be an intense affair, with infighting over who will receive credentials to attend.
Trump himself has played coy when pressed about his plans. While casting his ballot on Tuesday, he spoke ambiguously about the possibility of declaring victory, saying, “It looks like we have a very substantial lead,” but hedging that “they have to call a winner.” His non-committal language has done little to dispel speculation about whether he will once again attempt to assert himself as the winner before votes are fully counted.
The possibility of a premature declaration has become a central storyline of this election night, underscoring the continued unpredictability and high stakes of Trump’s political theatre. His advisers, while divided, brace themselves for whatever decision the former president ultimately makes.