Formal:
* Demagogue: A political leader who appeals to the emotions and prejudices of people rather than to their rational side.
* Charlatan: A person who pretends to have more skill or knowledge than they actually do.
* Fraud: A person who deceives others, especially for their own gain.
Informal:
* Slickster: A smooth and cunning person, especially one who is dishonest.
* Rake: A person who is immoral or dissolute, especially one who leads a life of pleasure.
* Scoundrel: A dishonest or unscrupulous person.
* Sharper: A person who is skilled at cheating or swindling others.
Slang:
* Crook: A person who is dishonest and criminal.
* Con man: A person who cheats others out of money or possessions.
* Grifter: A person who makes a living by dishonest means.
Ultimately, the best synonym will depend on the specific context and the nuances of the situation.