What does the term 'bracketing' refer to in an election context?

In the context of elections, 'bracketing' specifically refers to the practice of grouping candidates who share common designations or affiliations on the ballot. This method allows voters to easily identify candidates who belong to the same political party or who share similar platforms or ideologies. By organizing the ballot in this way, the process becomes more intuitive for voters, enhancing their ability to quickly find and select candidates that align with their preferences. This practice not only aids in voter decision-making but also highlights the political landscape during elections, showcasing the variety of choices available within specific groups.

The other options do not accurately reflect the term's established meaning within the electoral process. Choosing a running mate pertains to the selection of a partner in a political campaign, which is not the focus of bracketing. Submitting candidacy forms is a procedural step in the election process rather than a grouping strategy. Campaigning in pairs suggests a collaborative campaigning approach but does not relate to how candidates are displayed on ballots. Thus, bracketing serves a distinct and important function in organizing candidate information for voters.