I think he appeals to the people who want him as a politician for the same reason Trump appealed to his supporters: they're dissatisfied with politics as usual, they want change at almost any cost, and he's a middle finger at the people they dislike. That's not good justification for a gamble with the whole country, but these people see it as time for a Hail Mary. Sometimes I feel that way too; then I put down my phone and take a walk.