Incumbents
An incumbent is a person who currently holds a seat in Congress. Come election time, most incumbents win reelection to their house.
To the left our the current Pennsylvania Senators, Pat Toomey and Bob Casey
To the left our the current Pennsylvania Senators, Pat Toomey and Bob Casey
Why?
*They already have a large enough budget that allows them to hire a sizable staff for their campaign.
*They also have money to use for trips to speak with their constituents.
*They have the ability to send postage-free letters or announcements to their constituents often.
*They have easier time campaigning, because some of the things they would do to campaign are part of their regular job.
*Incumbents are much more recognized in their districts than opposing candidates, and have more access to the media.
*The most significant advantage that incumbents have is the ability to raise much more money in campaign contributions than those running against them.
*They also have money to use for trips to speak with their constituents.
*They have the ability to send postage-free letters or announcements to their constituents often.
*They have easier time campaigning, because some of the things they would do to campaign are part of their regular job.
*Incumbents are much more recognized in their districts than opposing candidates, and have more access to the media.
*The most significant advantage that incumbents have is the ability to raise much more money in campaign contributions than those running against them.
This information was obtained from http://www.cusdi.org/reelection.htm