Star candidate

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A star candidate (French: candidat vedette) is high-profile individual who is entering or re-entering elected politics. In Canada and the United Kingdom, the recruitment of a star candidate often includes a guaranteed nomination in a winnable seat.

Star candidates come from several different worlds:

• Notable figures from outside of politics. (Journalists, broadcasters, athletes, celebrities, business executives, etc.)
• Figures who may not be personally notable, but who have achieved great credibility on a specific issue. (Leaders of advocacy groups, academics, former diplomats, former military leaders, union leaders, police chiefs, etc.)
• Popular and highly visible politicians from other levels of government.
• Former politicians who are returning to politics.
• Spouses, children, and other relations of deceased or retired politicians.

• Paper candidate