Why does the incumbent candidate have an advantage?

Question

I’ve always read about the incumbent advantage, but I don’t understand why that would exist. Wouldn’t an incumbent have to demonstrate what s/he has accomplished in office versus a newcomer who could make any claim since the burden of proof won’t be on them?

In: Other

Answer 1

I believe the term often used for the advantage is bully pulpit. In other words, the idea that because you are already president you have the advantage because you have a greater opportunity for your speech to be listened to.