[papertyger]

I’m trying to think of a “celebrity” candidate that lost their first election and drawing a blank.

Thoughts?

[nopardons]

Reagan couldn't unseat Ford, but I doubt that that's what you meant. :-)

Other than that, nope, I can't think of one either.

[Albion Wilde]

I'm trying to think of a "celebrity" candidate that lost their first election and drawing a blank.

Ronald Reagan lost his first nomination, IIRC.