Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the presidential race and endorse Kamala Harris as the presidential candidate showcases his political wisdom and maturity. With his extensive experience in government, Biden understands that competence and capability are key to leading a nation. With her solid track record as a senator and Vice President, Kamala Harris is more competent to continue the vision and mission that Biden has initiated.
Joe Biden: A Wise Decision for the Nation’s Future
Biden chose to support someone he believes is most capable of leading the United States into a better future. This move reflects his deep understanding of the importance of a competent and experienced leader. Biden resisted the temptation to maintain power through a political dynasty, even though he could have advanced his children or even grandchildren by changing the laws if necessary. Instead, he chose to enjoy his retirement peacefully, knowing that he had left the country in capable hands.
Joko Widodo: Concern for His Future
On the other hand, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) faces a different political reality in Indonesia. Jokowi appears more concerned about his future and that of his children after his term ends. This is evident from his efforts to promote his son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, who has been elected as Vice President for the 2024-2029 period. Additionally, his son-in-law, Bobby Nasution, is being prepared to become the Governor of North Sumatra, and his youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep, is also set to run in the Jakarta regional elections.
These moves indicate Jokowi’s concern for the future political stability of himself and his family. The political dynamics in Indonesia are often influenced by factors such as patronage, power, and family stability in politics. Jokowi may feel the need to secure his family’s political future to ensure their safety and stability once he is no longer in office. In this context, promoting his children can be seen as a strategic move to maintain influence and power.
Competence vs. Power
The main difference between Biden’s and Jokowi’s decisions lies in the emphasis on competence versus efforts to retain power. Biden chose to support Kamala Harris because he believes she is the most suitable person to lead the United States. He was not tempted to advance his family members, even though he had the opportunity to do so.
In contrast, Jokowi seems more focused on his family’s future in Indonesian politics. His efforts to promote his children indicate a concern for the future and an attempt to retain power within the family circle. While this is understandable within the context of Indonesian politics, it also highlights a fundamental difference in approaches to leadership and power management.
Conclusion
Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the U.S. presidential race and endorse Kamala Harris as the presidential candidate underscores his commitment to competence and capability in leadership. This is a move that reflects political maturity and an understanding of the importance of a competent leader for the nation’s future.
On the other hand, Jokowi faces a different political reality in Indonesia, where concerns about the family’s future and efforts to retain power through political dynasties are more prominent. This difference highlights the distinct political dynamics between the United States and Indonesia and the differing approaches to leadership and power management.
As both leaders face the future, their decisions reflect different values and priorities. While Biden can enjoy his retirement peacefully, Jokowi continues to ensure his family’s future in a complex political landscape.