As the 2024 U.S. Presidential election cycle unfolds, the spotlight remains predictably focused on familiar faces like Vice President Kamala Harris, who embodies the expectation that those in the second-highest office may naturally ascend to the presidency. This phenomenon, coupled with what some refer to as “box office elections,” where charisma and media presence trump substantive policy debates, has obscured key figures with significant potential to lead, like Robert Francis “Beto” O’Rourke and independent candidate Dr. Cornel West. These are individuals who possess both the capacity to lead and the charisma to rally support and raise funds, yet their contributions and possibilities are largely sidelined by the current media-driven, personality-centered political culture.

The Vice Presidential Pipeline

In American political history, the vice presidency has often served as a stepping stone to the presidency. The expectation that a vice president is a “natural” successor has gained momentum in the current political climate. Kamala Harris, serving as the first woman and person of color in the role, has drawn massive attention as a likely Democratic candidate, owing more to her position than her political record or vision. While Harris is a significant figure, the overwhelming focus on her potential candidacy reflects the limited scope through which political media and pundits assess leadership potential.

This “vice presidential pipeline” often creates a media narrative that blocks out other voices, narrowing the Democratic field before it even has a chance to fully form. Yet, history tells us that some of the most transformative leaders emerged from outside the established succession patterns, forcing a reconsideration of what truly makes a candidate fit to lead.

Box Office Elections: Style Over Substance?

The rise of “box office elections” in U.S. politics has turned campaigns into spectacles. Candidates are judged on their ability to generate media buzz, attract huge rallies, and trend on social media. The 2020 election and those preceding it showcased this trend, where image, performance, and viral moments often overshadowed substantive debate about policy and governance.

While charisma has always been an asset in politics, this new trend values spectacle over strategy. The rise of political personalities like Donald Trump emphasized how entertainment value could define a campaign. Consequently, important figures like Beto O’Rourke, who surged to national prominence during his 2018 Senate run in Texas, find themselves sidelined. Despite his ability to mobilize voters, generate significant fundraising, and inspire a new generation of activists, O’Rourke is now viewed by many through the narrow lens of his 2020 presidential loss, rather than his potential as a future leader.

Overlooked Leaders: Beto O’Rourke and Cornel West

Figures like Robert Francis “Beto” O’Rourke and Dr. Cornel West illustrate how superficial political narratives can eclipse genuine leadership potential. O’Rourke, with his passionate speeches, ability to inspire youth and grassroots support, and his ambitious political vision, has the hallmarks of a significant political figure. Yet, his prominence seems to have waned in the national discourse following his failed bids for Senate and the presidency.

Similarly, Dr. Cornel West, an independent candidate, philosopher, and activist, represents a deeply intellectual and morally rooted perspective in American politics. His critiques of corporate power, inequality, and the Democratic Party’s move toward centrism resonate with many voters who are disillusioned by the current political system. Yet, because his style lacks the “box office” quality of more media-friendly candidates, he is often cast aside as too radical or fringe to be seriously considered as a presidential candidate.

The Charisma to Lead—and the Capacity to Fundraise

Both O’Rourke and West possess a rare blend of charisma and the ability to rally people to their cause, with the added benefit of fundraising prowess. O’Rourke’s 2018 Senate campaign raised record amounts, thanks to a massive grassroots donor network, while West, though operating outside the traditional party structures, has a committed base of supporters who are energized by his commitment to progressive ideals.

The importance of fundraising in modern elections cannot be understated. The ability to generate financial support, especially from small donors, has become a vital metric for success. Candidates who excel at raising funds often demonstrate an ability to build a movement, which in turn indicates strong leadership skills. Despite this, figures like O’Rourke and West remain underappreciated because the narrative has become so centered on the most visible candidates, those who fit neatly into pre-existing molds or hold institutional power.

The Superficial Cornerstone of Our Society

Unfortunately, the emphasis on superficial values—image, sound bites, social media influence—has become the cornerstone of what determines political viability in the U.S. today. Leadership, vision, and the capacity to govern seem to take a back seat to a candidate’s ability to entertain, command attention, or simply be in the right place at the right time. While this trend continues, figures like O’Rourke, West, and others who do not fit the prevailing media narrative will continue to be overlooked, even though they may be exactly the kind of leaders needed in an era of growing disillusionment with traditional politics.

Conclusion: A Broader View of Leadership

As the 2024 elections draw closer, it’s essential that voters, political analysts, and the media broaden their view of who is fit to lead. Beyond the hype of vice presidential candidates and box office campaigns, there are leaders with the ability to unite, inspire, and govern effectively. Robert Francis “Beto” O’Rourke and Cornel West are just two examples of this overlooked talent. If we continue to allow superficial values to dominate our political discourse, we risk missing out on the deeper qualities that make for true leadership—and that could ultimately shape the future of the country in more meaningful ways.