Nomination - Definition and Overview

Nomination is part of the process of selecting a candidate for either election to an office, or the bestowing of an honor or award.

In the context of elections for public office, a candidate who has been selected by a political party is normally said to be the nominee of that party. The party's selection (that is, the nomination) is typically accomplished either based on one or more primary elections or by means of a political party convention or caucus, according to the rules of the party and any applicable election laws.

Normally, the nominee of a recognized political party is entitled to appear on the general election ballot. Candidates who are unaffiliated with any political party are typically required to submit a nominating petition in order to gain ballot access.

Example Usage of Nomination