In American politics, a '''front-runner''' (also spelled '''frontrunner''' or '''front runner''') 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 [[United States presidential primary|presidential primary]] process, is less so as 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 [[News media|media]] who are following the race and is written about in a different style than his or her challengers.