Incumbency refers to the situation in which the current holder of the presidential office seeks re-election. The incumbent president often has significant advantages in the election, but there are also notable disadvantages that can come with the position.

• Example: George W. Bush benefited from media exposure post-9/11, using the narrative of national security and leadership in crisis to bolster his re-election campaign.

• Example: In the 2012 election, Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast just before the election, and President Obama's response was widely covered, portraying him as a capable leader in times of crisis. In contrast, George W. Bush's slow response to Hurricane Katrina damaged his public image.

• Current Example: Biden's campaign has emphasized the success of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 and the Inflation Reduction Act to maintain positive media coverage.

• Example: In 2012, Obama raised over $700 million, enabling a far-reaching and effective campaign.

• Current Example: Biden's fiery State of the Union address in 2023 led to an increase in individual donations to his campaign.

• Example: Obama's re-election campaign in 2012 was bolstered by a well-coordinated network that mobilized volunteers for door-to-door canvassing and phone banking, significantly boosting voter turnout.

• Example: Obama's 2012 campaign emphasized the passage of the ACA, recovery from the Great Recession, and the killing of Osama bin Laden.

• Example: Obama's initiatives on student loan reform, healthcare accessibility, and immigration reform resonated with key demographics like young voters, Hispanic communities, and LGBTQ+ rights advocates.

• Example: George H.W. Bush faced criticism for breaking his "no new taxes" pledge, which led to a loss of trust among voters.

• Example: Trump was heavily criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, which was seen as inadequate and reactive rather than proactive.

• Example: Jimmy Carter faced a public desire for change due to economic struggles and the Iran hostage crisis, which overshadowed his efforts and contributed to his defeat.

• Example: Trump became a focal point for dissatisfaction due to his handling of contemporary issues like the pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement.

• Example: Biden's 2020 victory was largely due to his ability to turn out his base and emphasize the importance of unseating Trump, rather than generating enthusiasm for his policies.

• Example: Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement damaged his popularity, as he was perceived as indifferent to significant issues affecting the nation.

• Example: George H.W. Bush's failure to address economic issues adequately led to his loss, encapsulated by the phrase "It's the economy, stupid" during Bill Clinton's campaign.

• Positive Example: George W. Bush's leadership post-9/11 and the initiation of the war on terror strengthened his re-election campaign.

• Example: Obama's successful passage of the ACA ("Obamacare") was a significant factor in his re-election.