A "party nominee" refers to the person chosen by a political party to represent them in an election. They are the candidate that the party believes represents their values and who they hope will win the election. Full definition
However, in only one of these six races did the independent candidate beat major party nominees who were running. (thirdpartypolitics.us)
Four minor party nominees in 2012 partisan statewide races carried counties. (thirdpartypolitics.us)
Whenever there is a partisan election in which only one of the two major parties runs anyone, any minor party nominee on the ballot in that election typically polls at least 5 %. (thirdpartypolitics.us)