I'd say the phenomenon is pretty unique to Trump and Sanders. In Trump's case, his speeches are largely stand-up comedy, and the parts that aren't played for laughs contain the kind of rah-rah patriotism that people come out to see at 4th of July parades and the like.
Most Americans are indifferent or hostile to their representatives, when they even know who they are.
Most Americans are indifferent or hostile to their representatives, when they even know who they are.