Matteo Renzi vs Olafur Ragnar Grimsson

Renzi was elected Secretary of the Democratic Party in a primary election, defeating the incumbent Pier Luigi Bersani. His victory signaled a shift towards a more centrist and reformist agenda within the party.

Renzi's government passed the Jobs Act, a major labor market reform that relaxed dismissal rules and expanded temporary contracts. The reform aimed to reduce unemployment but was criticized for increasing job precarity.

Renzi became the youngest Prime Minister in Italian history at age 39, succeeding Enrico Letta. He promised sweeping reforms and a new political style, initially enjoying high popularity and media attention.

Renzi staked his premiership on a constitutional referendum to reduce the Senate's power and streamline legislation. The proposal was rejected by 59% of voters, leading to his resignation and a political crisis.

Olafur Ragnar Grimsson was elected President of Iceland, succeeding Vigdis Finnbogadottir. He won with 41.4% of the vote. His presidency began a period of 20 years in office, making him one of Europe's longest-serving heads of state.

Grimsson refused to sign a media ownership bill passed by parliament, triggering a national referendum. The bill aimed to restrict media ownership. Voters rejected the bill in the referendum. This was the first time a president used the veto power since Iceland's independence.

Grimsson was re-elected President of Iceland unopposed as no other candidate qualified for the ballot. This occurred during the 2008 financial crisis that severely impacted Iceland. His unopposed re-election reflected political consensus during a national emergency.

Grimsson announced he would not seek re-election after 20 years as president. His decision followed the Panama Papers scandal, in which his wife was implicated. He left office in August 2016, ending the longest presidential tenure in Iceland's history.