Final answer:
The combination of self-starters and sponsored candidates refers to independent candidates and candidates sponsored by major political parties. Third-party candidates may face more challenges in terms of funding and support. Candidates with sufficient financial resources and media attention have a higher chance of becoming the nominee.
Step-by-step explanation:
The combination of self-starters and sponsored candidates refers to the presence of both independent candidates who are self-motivated and financially support their own campaigns, as well as candidates who are sponsored by major political parties and receive financial and organizational resources from them.
In elections, it is common to have candidates from each party on the ballot, but third-party candidates may face more difficulties in terms of funding and support. They have to work harder to raise money and gain support compared to candidates from major parties who have more resources at their disposal.
While in the past, getting the party's nomination required the backing of party leaders and a strong connection with the party's values, nowadays, anyone can run for a party's nomination. Candidates with sufficient financial resources and media attention tend to have a higher chance of becoming the nominee, regardless of the party leadership's preference.