Not even remotely in the sense of the expression as its commonly used when discussing politics. Everyone who aspires to attend a military academy has to fight for an "appointment" first, from a senator or congressman, but the candidate's personal politics do not factor into the equation. Nor does the politician typically have anything to do with you if he or she gives you his or her nomination. It's just a process you go through when applying to a service academy.
I got John Kerry's nomination. I'm a Freeper. You do the math.
Repent, you must be the son of a devil if you are Kerry’s nominee.
LOL.
Liberal troll.
(Do I need to add a sarcasm tag?)