For most political candidates, a cakewalk to re-election awaits

Qualifying week brought a cascade of candidates with their eyes on November. But despite hundreds of offices up for grabs, most candidates face no opposition. Redrawn political districts have etched out safe zones for most incumbents. And those who have managed to get elected wield an almost insurmountable financial advantage.

An Atlanta Journal-Constitution analysis found that incumbent state lawmakers together have roughly $11 million in campaign cash ready to unload against anyone with the temerity to mount a challenge. And Republicans have amassed nearly $8.5 million to maintain their grip on statewide offices.

All told, statewide and legislative incumbents have raised nearly $20 million to protect their offices. That may help explain why only about one-third of incumbents seeking re-election in the Legislature face opponents.