reelected

Reelected is the past tense of reelect, describing the act of being elected again to a political office after having previously served in that position. The term is commonly used for offices with defined terms, and it can refer to elected executives, legislators, or other officials. A related form, re-elected or re-elected, is used in some style guides, but reelected is widely accepted today.

In political usage, incumbents often seek reelection to extend their time in office. Success depends on voter support, party organization, and broader political and economic conditions. Some jurisdictions place limits on reelection through term-length restrictions or term limits, while others allow indefinite reelection.

The process generally includes campaigning, primaries or nominations, and participation in a general election. If the candidate wins, they are described as reelected and begin a new term. Reelection does not guarantee policy continuity, as administrations or legislatures may shift coalitions or priorities over time.

Examples and patterns vary by country and system. In the United States, several presidents have been reelected to a second term, such as Barack Obama in 2012 and Ronald Reagan in 1984. In other democracies, parties may renew their electoral mandate by winning another general election, potentially extending the tenure of its leaders within the government. Overall, reelection is a common mechanism by which political offices can be retained across successive terms.