Walking into Sueca at ten in the morning on a Tuesday makes the outside world feel far away. The wind brushes the streets, the sun warms the sidewalks, and neighbors go about their daily routines. An ambulance picks up a woman, shops greet shoppers with carts, and the town breathes in its own rhythm. It is also the home base for Joan Baldoví, the candidate for the Presidency of the Generalitat and former deputy in Congress.
Sueca serves as the anchor. One can always put in miles and still return to town. This is where his home, his family, and his people are. Those who know him describe it that way. The route begins at the municipal market. Step inside, and Salvador’s butcher greets visitors. Three women line up as the newspaper adds to the wait. The butcher cuts, wraps, and repeats. The sheep meat has just arrived, and the shopkeeper mentions how the inventory will change as the day goes on.
“Everybody Asks Him”
The market butcher has known Joan Baldoví for decades, nearly thirty years. He remembers that Baldoví even appeared on municipal election lists as an independent candidate. He describes Baldoví as a “great guy” who rode his bike across town when he was mayor and always showed patience when dealing with constituents as a member of parliament. The reason is obvious: everyone asks him questions, talks to him, and Baldoví takes care of everyone.
Typical fare includes sobrasada with putxeret and llaveretes, known locally as the “Sueca Easter sausage.” Lamb and duck are sourced from Sant Roc to be prepared with young garlic and potatoes for Christmas. He is remembered as a “good guy.” “Here, try some sobrasada; the tea has a special taste,” the shopkeeper jokes, and the moment finds its way into the magazine’s notes.
A few blocks away is Jordi Viñoles, the barber who sits around the corner and adapts to the rhythm of political life. He explains how he first met the candidate when she was a local, then notes she has been coming for a haircut for about a year and a half. Open and closed, humble and straightforward—a normal person, he says. He mentions that Baldoví visits the small shop roughly every two weeks. “She comes in often. She prefers very short hair; otherwise, she doesn’t feel comfortable in her daily political routine. It helps to keep things clear, and it’s something she takes seriously. It’s fine to want to be comfortable under the bright lights all day.” They discuss mountain and road bikes for their loved ones. Do you schedule with a calendar in hand? The barber laughs. “Sometimes you have to do him a favor now and then,” he teases, adding that the political tempo can be frantic and demands flexibility.
A little over two and a half kilometers away lies the small town of Riola. Very close to Sueca, Riola is a place with strong ties to the island. Baldoví taught at CEIP Miguel Hernández, ran for the Generalitat, and served as a member of Congress. On the doorstep of the training center lives Salvador Vendrell, a retired teacher, writer, and legal professional who is also Baldoví’s brother. “We met when she was nine, in high school, and we’ve remained friends ever since.” The family speaks of marriage, siblings, and a close circle.
They entered politics together at the age of 16. “He was more festero than me,” says Vendrell with a smile, explaining that Baldoví always jokes about him being the reason Baldoví stayed involved in politics. A copy of a 2017 book by Baldoví sits on the table in Valencia, a reminder of the early days. The two started in public life during the transition era in Sueca, learning much by visiting the home of Joan Fuster. Vendrell notes that Baldoví is always moving forward, returning home to a very close family. They all get along well and gather for any excuse, especially the day of reflection as a family unit.
They were watching football at Vendrell’s house last Sunday. He belongs to Valencia CF and says he is a Barça supporter, yet football is merely an excuse to bring the family together with their third brother-in-law, Manolo. Normally, Baldoví brings “panetes,” tuna ravioli, and “brossa,” spinach. If Baldoví is undertaking a project, it means he is working hard. Vendrell recalls knowing in advance that his brother-in-law would run for the Generalitat Presidency. He adds that leadership is not easy, and the role carries a weight that Baldoví willingly accepts. There is a sense that politics is a pressure, a spark that he deeply loves and to which he willingly devotes himself, even as the family keeps a steady, supportive presence.
Citation: This portrait combines anecdotes from Sueca and Riola residents who have observed Baldoví’s community involvement and family life over many years.