Controversy Over Term Limits
That some 90% of incumbents won reelection on Nov. 3 should come as no surprise. As a political consultant, I can tell you the term “anti-incumbent” was a misnomer from the start. As study after study indicates, incumbency is almost always perceived positively. In fact, in all fields, experience is highly valued.
What we did see this year was a definite “anti-politician” bias, something specific to politics. Politicians are often seen in a negative light for putting their own interests above the public interest. But smart candidates can overcome some of this bias by showing a recognition of it and a willingness to do things differently.
Being the incumbent and the politician in the race are not necessarily one in the same. That’s why, again and again, we see voters simultaneously rejecting politicians and electing incumbents.
JOSEPH TAYLOR
Los Angeles
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