
FILE - In this June 7, 2012 file photo, Rep. Charlie Rangel, D-N.Y. speaks during a news conference on Capitol Hill. When the results are counted this Tuesday, Americans are poised to resoundingly rehire roughly 350 of the 535 members of the House and Senate despite railing for months about an ineffective, bitterly divided legislature. The once-in-a-decade redrawing of congressional districts is one of the main reasons why so many lawmakers will return to Washington _ and the first election after that politically driven process is typically a high point _ but redistricting isn t the only reason. The power of incumbency with its name recognition and cash advantage also is responsible.
Credit: AP