I was thinking about all of the presidential candidates in my lifetime (since 1976) and without an exception, and regardless of political party, character or policy ideas, the most charismatic candidate won.
Ford vs Carter: A stick is more charismatic than Ford
Reagan vs Carter: Reagan by a mile
Reagan vs Mondale: Ditto
Bush vs Dukakis: Bush was definitely not charismatic but Dukakis was worse
Bush vs Clinton: Clinton for sure
Clinton vs. Dole: Ditto
Bush vs Gore: Bush is only moderately charismatic but Gore was definitely not at all
Bush vs Kerry: Similar, although this one is almost a toss up
Obama vs McCain: Obama, although McCain wasn’t terrible
Obama vs Romney: Romney was a stiff
Trump vs Clinton: Trump is very charismatic to certain people, ex reality actor, years in the public eye etc.... Clinton was never very comfortable on camera
My point is that only a very charismatic person is going to excite the Democrats enough to beat trump. So far, the best bets are probably Bernie or Harris. Bernie might be the safer bet in that the real left wing won’t vote for a centrist candidate, but the centrist democrats will vote for whoever isn’t Trump. I personally think Sanders will be a terrible president though, but who knows.
After 2016, who knows anything anymore.
I agree, and this is my main problem with Warren.
These are interesting assessments! Just goes to show how subjective charisma can be. I thought Bush Jr was pretty charismatic in his trademark disarming aw shucks kind of way. His bullhorn speech on the rubble of the WTC was unforgettable and I can't think of another president who could deliver that speech as well and put his arm around a fire chief without giving off the feeling that he was using them as a prop.
Anyways, I find Beto to be the most charismatic. But he's a white man, and liberals would have to be completely convinced he's the only one who could beat Trump before they'd choose him over a woman or POC.
Warren shot herself in the foot with her DNA test results. The GOP primary should have taught her that the best thing to do is ignore bullies rather than responding to their ridiculous taunts as though they can be one-upped.
It's hard not to mention Cory Booker when talking about charisma, as he's got it, but is often accused of coming off as phony. I think he's genuine, but I get that his earnestness and profound language leave people feeling like he's selling something. I don't think he'll get the nomination.
Amy K has a quiet charisma that will probably get overlooked in this crowded field. But it might mean she'll be first in line as a VP choice.
My money's on Harris given that she's presidential, polished, and seems to be what the DNC is looking for. I don't think the far left economic progressives will get their Bernie or even Warren, but I think they have already been successful in getting things like medicare for all pushed into the official agenda.