Meghann Anderson
Staff writer
The University’s Presidential Lecture Series will feature the political power-couple James Carville and Mary Matalin at 7:30 p.m. Monday at Lovett Auditorium.
Their lecture, named “All’s Fair in Love, War and Politics,” is open and free to all students, faculty and the general public. Attendees will be allowed to ask Carville and Matalin questions after the discussion.
Carville, Democrat, and Matalin, Republican, have been married since 1993 in spite of their opposing political views.
Carville’s official website describes him as the man who has devised the most dramatic political victories of the generation.
Carville was the head strategist for Bill Clinton’s 1992 presidential campaign and was also an adviser to Hillary Rodham Clinton’s 2008 presidential campaign. He is often referred to as the “Ragin’ Cajun” for his energized debating style and his background ties to Louisiana.
Matalin was director of George W. Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign, and served as a counselor to Vice President Dick Cheney.
The duo wrote the political memoir, “All’s Fair: Love, War and Running for President”, which is for sale in the University Store.
Carville and Matalin were co-hosts for CNN’s debate program, “Crossfire” and are now political contributors for CNN.
Carville has managed more campaigns worldwide than anyone else in U.S. history.
University President Randy Dunn said the lecture should provide interesting insight to students, especially as it is another presidential election year.
Carville and Matalin live with their two daughters in New Orleans. Carville is also a professor at Tulane University.
The debate is sponsored by the Student Government Association, the Murray State Foundation, Racer Live Productions and the President’s Office.
Josh Jacobs, chief of staff, said the cost of the lecture is approximately $60,000. The Murray State Foundation paid $10,000 for the debate.
This is the first lecture in the Lecture Series’ history to host two people.
“James and Mary are internationally recognized political consultants,” Jacobs said. “Students can learn from their experiences, gain new insight into the political process and be entertained all at the same time. It is a win-win, not to mention they are married and this is the day before Valentine’s Day, sparks will fly.”
Previous Lecture Series speakers have been, Ben Stein, Desmond Tutu and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.