The charismatic and genial two-time president of his country, Traian Băsescu remains the most powerful force in Romanian politics today. Born in the height of the Communist era, Traian and his large family grew up under the rigor and discipline of their father's military discipline. Fascinated as a young child by the ocean, he enrolled in the naval academy and soon rose to the rank of captain, overseeing the country's merchant marine service. After Romania's revolution, he successfully parleyed his long maritime experience into a political career, first serving as the Minister of Transportation under a succession of prime ministers and then as a deputy in the parliament. Seizing the opportunity, he successfully ran for and was elected as mayor of the capital, where his outgoing, affable style ran headlong into vocal criticism from his myriad opponents. Deciding to strike while the iron was hot, he stepped down from his position as mayor to run for president of Romania, narrowly winning the election in the second round. Fending off two recalls, he successfully finished two full terms in office. After more than a decade at the top of the heap in Romanian politics, Băsescu is now considering whether to step out of the limelight or to continue to involve himself in the country's affairs.