Why use "running against" in this sentence?

[Mickey]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #150 "Phrasal idioms with the verb 'run'", question 1

The Australian Labour Party doesn't currently have any politicians that would be capable of successfully ......... the Prime Minister at the next federal election.

(a) running away with
(b) running for
(c) running against
(d) running down

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #150 "Phrasal idioms with the verb 'run'", answer 1

The Australian Labour Party doesn't currently have any politicians that would be capable of successfully running against the Prime Minister at the next federal election.

Correct answer: (c) running against

Your answer was: correct
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Why use "running against" in this sentence?

[Kitosdad]

Good morning Mickey. It suggests that there is no-one who could run ( compete) against the present Prime Minister in ousting him from power, either by their policies or their popularity with the voting public.

Kitos.
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