Final answer:
A current US House member running for reelection is known as an incumbent, with a high rate of reelection due to the incumbent advantage. The two-year terms require constant campaigning to stay connected with their districts.
Step-by-step explanation:
When running for reelection, a current US House member is known as an incumbent. Incumbents in the House of Representatives serve two-year terms and are always campaigning for reelection to maintain a close connection with their constituents and to be able to act as their advocates in Washington.
The concept of the incumbency advantage highlights the historical tendency for sitting members to enjoy high rates of reelection due to factors such as name recognition, donor support, and past legislative success.
Significant figures such as Shirley Chisholm, who was not only the first African American woman to be elected to Congress but also a significant presidential candidate, reflect the changing dynamics of representation and the impact individuals can have on the political landscape.
Even though incumbents generally have a considerable advantage, there have been instances, such as the loss of House majority whip Eric Cantor in a primary election, illustrating that the end of incumbency advantage is possible under certain circumstances.