>

That’s my point - Trump’s “charisma” appealed to a lot of voters… and Biden won solely because he isn’t Trump. So maybe that’ll be the plan again in 2024
There’s lots of smart democrats who I would love to see as President.  Tammy Duckworth. Katie Porter.  Adam Schiff (which Reddit refused to allow me to spell correctly for 4 tries). >

A reasonable moderate would be good from either party for the country but I don’t see that happening. My bets for the outcome are Desantis vs Newsome. >

This isn't a perfect replacement IMO, but
PAUL RYAN VS STACEY ABRAMS 
YOU HEARD IT HERE FOLKS >

Ron Desantis ,  Nicki Haley 
On the left ……
Michelle Obama, maybe Buttigieg
I’m depressed writing this out, our country is fucked >

Yes, it’s depressing but I don’t know why you say that after writing Michelle. She’d be awesome but I doubt she’ll run. 
Otherwise, in no particular order, there’s Warnock, Newsom and half of those who ran in 2020. >

Buttigieg would probably be a very strong contender for Democrats. With Republicans, I don't see how anyone has as much clout right now as DeSantis, so we'd probably be looking at a Buttigieg vs. DeStantis matchup in 2024. >

Yeah - I don’t think someone whose resume reads Mayor and Transportation Secretary is going to give much confidence to independent voters.
Who do the Democrats have that actually appeals to Independents? >

Why wouldn't Buttigieg appeal to independents? He's more moderate than many candidates who ran in 2020 and he's a frequent presence on national TV arguing on behalf of the Biden administration which raises his credibility. >

Either you have to have political experience or charisma… he has neither >

Charisma is subjective, lots of people think Trump has charisma for example but I certainly don't, so that's not particularly relevant.
He's the current Transportation secretary, which is a top federal position. If that doesn't give him political experience in your eyes, I honestly don't know what will. If you want to name another valid Democratic candidate, feel free.