Jokowi caught the attention of the nation with his Esemka, a local vehicle manufactured by a high school team in Solo.

In 2012, Jokowi contested for the mayor position of Jakarta and emerged victorious. Joko Widodo's pro-poor image helped him win the elections.
 
"For me, democracy means listening to the people, and doing what they want me to do," Joko Widodo had said during his presidential campaign. He espoused the cause of poor throughout his election campaign.

"That's why I visit the villages, traditional markets, meet the people in river banks, farmers and fisherman, because I want to hear what people want," added Joko Widodo.