Elly Schlein Keeps Democratic Party Name in Symbol Despite Opposition

Elly Schlein, the leader of Italy's Democratic Party (PD), has decided to keep the party's name in its symbol for the upcoming 2024 European elections, despite facing opposition from some party leaders. Schlein initially considered including her own name in the party symbol, a proposal that provoked strong reactions from prominent figures like former Prime Minister Romano Prodi and journalist Lucia Annunziata.

In a recent announcement on social media, Schlein stated, "I will not put my name in the symbol, as it is a proposal that is more divisive than strengthening, and the party does not need it." She emphasized her commitment to running alongside the PD's candidates in the elections while remaining in Italy to maintain a confrontation with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Parliament and discuss the government's policies.

Schlein expressed appreciation to Stefano Bonaccini, the leading PD candidate in the North East, and Nicola Zingaretti, who agreed to run on the PD list in the Centre, for their support. However, disagreements within the party persist, with some leaders arguing that the value of leadership should not be measured by the name in the symbol.

The PD has submitted its electoral symbol to the Interior Ministry, which includes a reference to the Party of European Socialists (PSE) but does not feature Schlein's name. Other Italian parties, such as Forza Italia, the United States of Europe coalition, the League, and the Five-Star Movement, have also begun announcing their candidates and leading candidates for the European elections.

Why this matters: The decision by Elly Schlein to keep the Democratic Party's name in its symbol, despite internal opposition, highlights the ongoing disagreements within the party. As Italy prepares for the 2024 European elections, the stance taken by party leaders and the selection of candidates will play a vital role in shaping the political landscape and the country's representation in the European Parliament.

Former Prime Minister Romano Prodi strongly criticized Schlein, as well as Giorgia Meloni and Antonio Tajani, for running in the European elections while intending to remain in the Italian Parliament. Prodi believes this practice undermines democracy, stating, "The people don't count for anything, they vote for one and then someone else goes." Despite the criticism, Schlein remains determined to contribute to the PD's success in the elections and counter the policies of the Meloni government in Italy.

Key Takeaways

• Elly Schlein, leader of Italy's Democratic Party, will keep party name in 2024 EU election symbol.
• Schlein initially considered including her name in the party symbol, but faced opposition from party figures.
• Disagreements persist within the party over the value of leadership and the name in the symbol.
• Other Italian parties have also begun announcing their candidates and leading candidates for the EU elections.
• Former PM Prodi criticized Schlein, Meloni, and Tajani for running in EU elections while remaining in Italian Parliament.