Why do Americans continue to reelect the incumbents? Even while supporting the idea of term limits, American continue to reelect their Congressional representatives time and time again. William Jefferson was elected to a ninth two year term even while under federal investigation.

• Incumbents are known to the public
• Incumbents have supporting political machinery
  
• Incumbents attract money and have big war chests full of cash
  
• Incumbents have helped people and businesses in the past
• Incumbents have seniority and should be able to work the system better

Under what circumstances can an incumbent be defeated

• Scandal
• Association with a losing political party
• Voting record against voters interests

Voter apathy, ingnorance and willingness to be led by connected politicians strongly favors the incumbents. Political machines support incumbents because they get paid!