IT
RADAR BRIEF · 44/100

Electoral law: center-right united on preferential voting, but runoff remains unresolved

Italy’s center-right has submitted unified amendments on preferential voting and other electoral rules, while leaving the issue of a possible runoff open. The reform is scheduled to reach the Senate chamber on September 9 and be approved on September 15.

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What is happening

An amendment on the runoff, presented by FdI senator Marcello Pera, would introduce a second round if no party or coalition reaches 48% in both chambers, provided the two leading coalitions each exceed 38%. Forza Italia chose not to submit its own amendments and said it remained open to dialogue. The center-right jointly submitted a text on preferential voting, allowing three preferences with gender alternation, while retaining blocked lead candidates without the same alternation requirement. The opposition announced amendments including open preferences, an end to blocked lists, gender parity, and raising the threshold for the majority premium to 45%. PD secretary Elly Schlein criticized the proposal and said the opposition would oppose it.

Why is it on the Radar?

The center-right has not reached a final decision on the runoff, and differing positions remain within the governing majority, including opposition from the League. The Senate examination is expected to be the main stage for deciding the amendments and the final structure of the electoral reform.

Sources and timeline