Ava DuVernay: Trouble Awaits Regardless of Midterm Result

Ava DuVernay predicts a challenging political environment following the upcoming midterm elections, regardless of which party gains control of Congress.

The filmmaker, who is currently promoting her documentary '14th,' discussed the electoral outlook at the Airbnb.org Gala last week. She noted that the current administration will react strongly to the results in either scenario.

"I think either way we're in trouble," DuVernay said. "If the Democrats pull it out, I think you're going to see an outsized reaction from the administration and I think if they don't, you're going to see an outsized reaction from the administration."

Voting is underway with Election Day two days away. The Associated Press reported on October 30 that more than 43 million Americans have already cast ballots either in person or by mail. RealClearPolling data shows Democrats currently leading Republicans by 8.2 percentage points in the national congressional ballot average. The current average stands at 51.4 percent for Democrats and 43.2 percent for Republicans.

Analysts widely predict Democrats will regain control of the House of Representatives. The Senate remains a tighter contest, with no definitive outcome yet apparent. DuVernay's film '14th' examines the 14th Amendment, which establishes birthright citizenship, due process, and equal protection under the law.

DuVernay emphasized the importance of civic knowledge in the current climate. "Folks need to really understand what it means to be a citizen, what it means to fight and to really know your rights," she said. She added that there is no lack of material for her next project and that advocates must keep pushing forward.