A sizable majority of representatives and senators who run for election are successful. This refers to power of incumbency that is used the elected office for political gain. Depends on the office it can uninterrupted funds to projects that help supporters or chastise challengers. An example might be a man chosen to be street commissioner of a city or country can use the power of his office to pave the streets of supports over other streets that may need it more. A congressman might be able to use what is called an earmark to direct spending to a district he represents over another one he does not. A governor can appoint friends and allies to state job as rewards for political support.