News In Brief

Carter says Democrats could win - if . . .

Jimmy Carter told reporters Tuesday that President Reagan would win if the 1984 election were held today but that the Democrats ''have a good chance'' in November if they can overcome his charm, dramatize the issues, and unite for the first time in 20 years.

The former President said Mr. Reagan has been ''highly successful in not taking responsibility'' for failures during his administration and in projecting a positive image of himself and the country's future.