What does the cryptic crossword clue "Votes against adopting explosive candidates (8)" mean?

The definition is "candidates". The wordplay uses a container (one word inside another). MINE (synonym="”explosive”") in NOES (synonym="”[the] Votes against”; around MINE=”explosive”") = NOMINEES; definition: "candidates" The answer is NOMINEES.

Votes against adopting explosive candidates (8)

Guardian Cryptic #29263 | 26 Across | 2023-12-27 flower

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