Charismatic Leadership, and Its Detrimental Role in American Presidential Elections

Abstract

Presidential leadership in the U.S. is very much dependent on the seemingly rational support from voters, which can be obtained through the presentation of charisma. This paper delves into the compelling role of charismatic leadership in shaping the outcomes of American presidential elections, focusing on the charismatic appeals of John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, and Barack Obama. By analyzing their distinctive campaigns and contextualizing their charisma within historical and socio-political frameworks as well as pre-existing works on charismatic leadership cross the globe, the study illuminates the intricate interplay between individual magnetism, strategic messaging, and collective resonance. While charisma emerges as a potent campaign tool, its impact is multifaceted and contingent upon contextual factors, making it a complex force in the electoral process. Through this analysis of charismatic leadership, this paper aims to understand how presidents in the US can be re-evaluated. The paper conclude that charisma played a pivotal role in the campaigns and presidencies of Kennedy, Reagan, and Obama, each leveraging their unique charismatic qualities, such as physical attractiveness, authoritative aura, inspirational rhetoric, and the ability to provide collective coping mechanisms.