As the redistricting commissions of states are often partisan, districts are often drawn which benefit incumbents.

The panel said that map intentionally packed black voters into one district to benefit incumbents.

The strong party allegiances found throughout much of the metropolitian region, though not unique to it, also benefit incumbents.

Officials in both parties are predicting a low turnout, which they say will benefit incumbents.

Federally financed conferences for religious leaders, he says, were adroitly arranged to benefit threatened Republican incumbents.

Low turnouts traditionally benefit incumbents and others who can draw on the resources of well-organized political groups.

All three factors benefit incumbents regardless of party affiliation.

Still, many critics contend that neither party actively favors the new laws, because the existing system tends to benefit incumbents.

Such partnerships could easily be used to benefit incumbents and to restrict potential entrants, a point made by Mr. Anderson.

Unlimited contributions benefit incumbents, not challengers, because money follows power.