Livorno is probably the reddest city in Italy: in fact the “Partito Comunista Italiano” (Italian Communist Party) was founded here in 1921 and, after the Fascist Era and the war, it has ruled the city until now. In 2007 the name was changed to Partito Democratico (
Democratic Party), but many older Livornese still call it “il partito” (the party).
In last Sunday's European Elections “the party” was boosted by the popularity of its secretary, the current Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, and a very low turnout. PD's national average was around 40%, reaching 52% in Livorno. The same day we also had elections for a new mayor and, until now, the party's candidate had always been elected at the first round.
Not this time: many disaffected voters snubbed the party lists to vote for a coalition led by a newly formed political group called “Buongiorno Livorno” (Good Morning Livorno). The PD's result fell locally to 40%, with the need of a runoff voting against the
Five Star Movement's candidate.
External links:
Democratic Party -
Five Star Movement (Wikipedia)
10 comments:
Very interesting post on local politics VP.
Sounds like there may be some changes in store for your city in the future.
I'm struck by how in these shots, facial hair in men in politics seems fine, whereas here it's a real rarity.
It seems like the economic struggles in many countries are turning politics upside down. Good male looks seem to be the key to success in Livorno politics.
These election posters are nice compared to what we have to put up with.
I hope Livorno gets good changes.
I always find it amazing that communist parties actually still existed after 1989.
Hopefully those that won are at least middle ground people. Extremes of any kind are no good, in my opinion.
Best wishes for Livorno.
Interesting posting.
I learned something new about Italy.
Here, people are so suspicious that "traditional" parties got the fewer votes ever and have voted in new parties but only one menaged to get one seat in the European Parliament.
Post a Comment