Fresh 535: Data Packet

The Great Disconnect: Approval vs. Reelection

The core of the problem lies in the disconnect between public sentiment and electoral outcomes. Americans overwhelmingly disapprove of Congress's performance, yet incumbents are almost never defeated.

The Financial Barrier: Incumbent Spending Advantage

A primary driver of the incumbency advantage is a massive, systemic fundraising gap. Challengers face an almost insurmountable financial wall, making true competition nearly impossible.

Data shows incumbents consistently out-raising and out-spending challengers by millions of dollars.