Not always. There are occasionally people who want to make a point (Jay Inslee), or who have enough fame or money to force themselves onto the national stage.

Not always. There are occasionally people who want to make a point (Jay Inslee), or who have enough fame or money to force themselves onto the national stage. The latter strategy of using your fame doesn't usually get far, although occasionally you get a comedian or television personality who makes it far enough. I'm talking about Pat Paulsen, of course. Who were you thinking of? :)