The upcoming European Parliament elections on June 8th and 9th have seen major Italian party leaders gearing up for the campaign. Among those absent from the electoral lists are Matteo Salvini of the League and Giuseppe Conte of the Five Star Movement, as well as Nicola Fratoianni and Angelo Bonelli of the Green-Left Alliance. However, many well-known figures from the national political scene will be running, including General Roberto Vannacci, teacher and anti-fascist activist Ilaria Salis, and former Undersecretary Vittorio Sgarbi. Forza Italia-Noi Moderati will feature the name of Vice Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, along with other candidates like ex-Mayor of Verona Flavio Tosi and ex-Mayor of Milan Letizia Moratti.
The Democratic Party will see Secretary Elly Schlein leading in two lists, while Cecilia Strada will head the North-West and Lucia Annunziata the South. Many incumbent MEPs will also be running, including delegation head Brando Benifei. The Five Star Movement will have five different lead candidates, including Maria Angela Danzì for the North-West and Sabrina Pignedoli for the North-East. Other candidates include former football player Carolina Morace, former Inps president Pasquale Tridico, and former president of the Nebrodi Park in Sicily, Giuseppe Antoci. Additionally, Michele Santoro’s Peace Earth Dignity and Cateno De Luca’s Freedom, leader of South Calls North, will be on the ballot in various constituencies.
These elections mark an important moment for Italy, with major party leaders and new faces stepping forward to represent their constituents in the European Parliament. Issues such as immigration, nationalism, and euro-skepticism are expected to feature prominently in the campaign. The absence of Salvini and Conte from the electoral lists is notable, as both have been prominent figures in Italian politics in recent years. The inclusion of well-known figures like Tajani, Schlein, and Meloni indicates the importance that parties are placing on these elections. It remains to be seen how these candidates will fare in the upcoming vote.
Overall, the upcoming European Parliament elections will be crucial for Italy, as its representatives will play a key role in shaping EU policies and decisions. With a diverse range of candidates from different parties and backgrounds, voters will have a variety of choices to consider when casting their ballots. The competition between established politicians and newcomers will be fierce, as each candidate seeks to make their mark in Brussels. The outcome of these elections will not only have an impact on the future of Italy within the European Union but also on the broader political landscape in Europe as a whole. It is an opportunity for Italian voters to make their voices heard on important issues facing the continent.
