What does the term "incumbent" refer to in elections?

The term "incumbent" specifically refers to an individual who is currently holding a position in office. Incumbents often have advantages during elections, such as established name recognition, experience in their roles, and existing relationships with constituents. This status can make them more favorable candidates in many cases, as they have the opportunity to showcase their record while in office.

In contrast, candidates running for office for the first time are not incumbents, nor are individuals who may be running against the current officeholder. The definition does not encompass all candidates, as it is focused specifically on those who are presently in office. Therefore, "incumbent" is distinctly tied to the role of currently serving officeholders, which is a critical concept in understanding electoral dynamics and the political landscape.