Front-runner

For other uses, see Frontrunner (disambiguation).

In American politics, a front-runner' or frontrunner is a leader in an electoral race. While the front-runner in athletic events (the namesake of the political concept) is generally clear, a political front-runner, particularly in the U.S. presidential primary process, is less so; a potential nominee may lead in the polls, have the most name recognition, the most funds raised, or a combination of these. The front-runner is most often declared by the media who are following the race, and is written about in a different style than his or her challengers.