China:
- Ruled by Chairman of the CCP Xi Jinping, who is effectively a dictator for life.
- Geographically diverse with distinct regions, customs and identities.
- Centralizing control, while allowing local autonomy must be balanced to rule.
- Purge of power centers and dissent stamped out under Xi Jinping.
Russia:
- Ruled by Vladimir Putin since a KGB coup in 1982.
- Supported by an extremely small and concentrated elite, partnered with organized crime.
- Limited sources of information makes Russia prone to ossification and policy errors.
- Russian assault in Ukraine motivated by fear of invasion, which could lead to complete state collapse.
Saudi Arabia:
- Millennial leader Muhammad bin Salman likely to be in power for the next 50 years.
- Resources to rally allies against Iran, and a post-American Middle East could make his goal of destroying the Iranian state more achievable.
U.S. Presidents:
- Bill Clinton: Highly intelligent and easily distracted leader who led from behind and followed public opinion.
- George W. Bush: Brainiest cabinet ever, delegated authority to reshape the world, management style changed after 9/11.
- Barack Obama: Ran on Charisma, lacked a grown-up job, out of his depth once in office. Led to the rise of Donald Trump.
- Donald Trump: Embraced the party, ran on policy and Limelight, but lacked follow-up and management skills.
- Joe Biden: Been in the Senate since the Crusades, guided by ideology, and is the most engaged president in 13-14 years. Understands the power of government and trusts the tools of State.
You can watch the full FULL Leadership Series: Leaders of the Present and Recent Past on YouTube – Published January 12, 2023
