The term 'CANDIDATES' goals' refers to the objectives that political CANDIDATES have when running for office. This can include a variety of things, such as enacting certain policies, improving the economy, or increasing public safety. The crossword solution for this term is 'SEATS, ' which is a reference to the seat in government that the candidate is running for. In other words, the goal of a candidate is to win the seat they are running for and take office.