Yeah there is definitely some vote-for-vote going on near the top, but the community can beat that if they so desired. Top witness votes carry some serious weight, but a bunch of minnows can eventually overpower it all the same.
It takes more work and effort of course.
(I self vote my own witness and I am still researching the other witnesses to give my votes to)
I have my doubts that minnows could generate enough power, but they could use social pressure, for what it’s worth.