Final answer:
Incumbents may struggle to attract supporters and contributors between election cycles due to decreased media attention and public focus, along with contributors' cautious approach to donations during non-election periods. Option D is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Incumbents may have difficulty securing supporters and contributors between election cycles (D), when they are not in the immediate spotlight of an election season. During the time between elections, there may be less media attention and public focus on the incumbent, which can make fundraising more challenging.
Additionally, contributors might be more cautious with their donations, waiting to see the political climate and potential challengers as the next election cycle approaches.
Despite the incumbency advantage, which provides higher name recognition and a track record that often attracts political action committee and interest group donations, incumbents still need to maintain support throughout their term.
It’s important to note that while the primary system and party support can serve to protect incumbents within safe seats, they are not immune to shifts in voter sentiment and the emergence of strong challengers, especially from within their own party.
Hence, the correct option is D.