More free-floating,less outward-looking: How more inclusive candidate selection procedures (could) matter

Abstract

In the face of the trend toward more participatory candidate nomination methods, studies increasingly focus on its consequences for the selection outcome. Yet, this literature has brought to light some inconsistent findings. They do not surprise given the complexity of selection decisions and the dependence of nomination results on who is running for a candidacy. Drawing on representative survey data collected before the 2017 Bundestag election, this article looks at the potential implications of different procedures by examining how the selection criteria of membership and delegate conferences vary. It shows that both selectorate types differ as to process-related selection criteria but less regarding candidate-related features. More specifically, membership conferences can be associated with more open decisions as their participants attach less importance to coordination mechanisms like leadership proposals. At the same time, they take less account of the external consequences of their choices since criteria that increase a candidate’s chances to enter parliament play a smaller role than among delegates. The study points to implications of inclusive procedures which might not be desired by the party leadership and may not serve the party’s electoral interests in the worst case.