Question: What role does incumbency play in gubernatorial political races? It provides no significant advantage because around three-quarters of incumbent governors have lost their bids for reelection during the past twenty years. It is the deciding factor, far outweighing money and the strength of the candidate's political party in the state electorate. It is rarely a factor because so few sitting governors can legally run for a second term. It provides an important edge over an opponent, as reflected in the fact that during the past thirty-five years, around three-quarters of incumbents have retained their seats. Need Assignment Help?