In the book "How Democracies Die" by Steven Levitsky, the author discusses the impact of fame and wealth on the political landscape, particularly after the 1972 primary system reforms. He argues that this new system allows certain individuals, specifically celebrities with substantial resources, to bypass traditional nomination processes. These outsiders can leverage their public recognition to gain traction without engaging in the conventional grassroots campaigning that lesser-known candidates must endure.

This vulnerability of the primary system to high-profile figures creates challenges for political equity and representation. By effectively avoiding the "invisible primary," celebrities can dominate the political arena, potentially undermining the democratic process by sidelining candidates who do not possess the same level of fame or financial backing. This shift raises critical questions about the nature of political competition and the accessibility of the political system to diverse voices.