Why do people choose to run for political office?

Not a realistic question. There are too many variables to take into the equation that makes the motivation for running for a political office.

I think some people feel a very strong need to serve, such as in Obama's case. Some just want to be king of the hill and are motivated by sheer greed. Guess who?

Some people are encouraged by others to serve because they demonstrate views that people think are worthy. But that’s not enough, to lead - from a parents’ group at a school or as a company president. There has to be charisma and likeability - which OBAMA had - but also a need for competency and experience for the job ( or at least surround yourself with those more experienced) which he didn’t. He really was a disappointment. On the job training that backfired. He’s probably more qualified and ready today.

A healthy ego is a must - Trump’s is exaggerated, plus he’s verbally impulsive and physically non- attractive. The voter base was willing to forgive these non attributes because he convinced them that he had answers to their distrust and dislike of Washington. He has a “get done” personality but leaves people in his wake. He’s pretty manic and probably already bored with the job. Plus Hillary was her own worst enemy in conducting a disinterested campaign and she dressed dowdy and seemed not physically up to the job.

And the money and perks arnt to be sneezed at.

Yes. I agree.

Some people run for political office because they genuinely want to do good.
Some for their ego.
Some for the power.
Some for fame.
Some for influence
Some for the money
Some run to build a career.

To become millionaires
Millionaires run to become multimillionaires —sometimes by acquiring the ability to create laws to shelter their investments and/ or increase profits or decrease penalties for the businesses that drive their income.

Or to enrich themselves performing those services for others—hence lobbyists and campaign contributions.

Power.

I think there are a fair number of people who run for political office who wish to help improve the lot of average Americans, but the majority of them leave office once they find what it's really all about. The ones who stick around have been corrupted.

I can't think of even one multi-term politician who doesn't fit this description.