Party Nomination Strategies in List Proportional Representation Systems

In list proportional representation (PR) systems, parties shape political selection. We propose a theory of party choice and elections in PR systems. Our results describe how allocates candidates heterogeneous quality across ranks depending on (1) its policy goals (2) competitive environment. test our predictions the universe Swedish local politicians from 1991 to 2014. Although assign better higher at all ballot levels, pattern is most pronounced among electorally advantaged that have strongest prospect controlling executive. findings challenge conventional accounts candidate selection which prioritize their nomination strategies only when constrained by electoral incentives.