Electing our leaders is at the core of American democracy. That includes electing a mayor, a governor, a senator, or a representative. It even includes electing the president.
Getting elected to any office is a hard process. That’s even more true of getting elected president. Elections involve political parties, primaries, conventions, campaigning, and money. And, of course, voting.
Most people who run for president have already served in government. They may have been the governor of a state, or a senator or representative. It’s not required, but it is common. Having already served in government is great job experience.
Most people who run are also pretty well known. If people know who you are, it’s much easier to get support and votes.