During election coverage, CNN’s Chris Wallace was surprised by the tight race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, especially given Trump’s gains in traditionally Democratic areas like Virginia. Wallace noted that despite Virginia’s blue trend since 2008, Trump was performing unexpectedly well, holding a narrow lead with 55% of the votes reported as of 9:45 Eastern Time.

In Northern Virginia’s Loudon County, a Democratic stronghold, Harris led by only 17 points—a significant eight-point swing toward Trump compared to 2020. Pollster Rich Baris suggested this could indicate a very close result statewide. Wallace also referenced exit polls showing widespread dissatisfaction, with 72% of voters feeling angry or dissatisfied with the current state of the country. He argued that winning under such conditions would be difficult for Harris.