I commiserate, but I don't think that has to be the case. I'd like to think (maybe my naivete') that the little guy could come through in masses and drive a candidate to the finish line. After all, there are a lot more of us (and our dollars) than them. Maybe not? Did Reagan have mentors?
Certainly money does not guarantee success. Otherwise Meg Whitman should have won in CA. During Reagan’s period, there was no 24-7 cable TV. Today campaign cash is very helpful in spreading your message in expensive media markets in metro areas. Plus Reagan had a big advantage...he was running against Carter! Note that most candidates drop out from lack of money during primaries.