noun (n)

• a politician who is running for public office(noun.person)

  Synonym:
  campaigner, nominee
  

  source: wordnet30
• someone who is considered for something (for an office or prize or honor etc.)(noun.person)

  Synonym:
  prospect
  

  source: wordnet30
• One who offers himself, or is put forward by others, as a suitable person or an aspirant or contestant for an office, privilege, or honor; as, a candidate for the office of governor; a candidate for holy orders; a candidate for scholastic honors.(noun)

  source: webster1913