Incumbency refers to the status of holding a specific office or position, particularly in politics. An incumbent is someone who is currently in office and often seeks re-election. This status can provide advantages, such as name recognition, established donor networks, and a record of experience that can appeal to voters. In many elections, incumbents tend to have a higher chance of winning due to these advantages. For example, in the United States, incumbents in the U.S. Congress have historically enjoyed a significant edge over challengers, often benefiting from their established presence and resources during campaigns.