Definition
A nominee becomes the party’s authorized candidate after winning a primary, convention, caucus, or other selection process.
Political Dictionary
Nominee
A nominee is the person officially selected by a party to run for office.
Why It Matters
Nomination determines which candidates represent parties in the general election.
How It Works
The candidate satisfies party and election rules and receives formal certification or convention approval.
History
Parties once relied mainly on caucuses and conventions, while direct primaries later became dominant for many offices.
Example
The winner of a party’s Senate primary becomes its general-election nominee.
Common Misconceptions
- A nominee has already won the office.
- Only major parties have nominees.
- The party may always replace a nominee without legal restrictions.
Related Terms
Related Topics
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