Draghi Isn’t Italy’s President. That’s a Good Thing
After a chaotic six-day political conclave, Italy sticks with the status quo. All of Europe should be relieved.
Italy's parliament applauding the final round of voting that resulted in Sergio Mattarella remaining president and Mario Draghi prime minister.
Photographer: Alessia Pierdomenico/BloombergMario Draghi is set to remain Italy’s prime minister. The country’s parliamentarians — in a secretive, conclave-like vote — decided against making him president, instead backing a second term for outgoing head of state Sergio Mattarella. While it may be a personal blow for Draghi, who was known to hanker after the role even if he did not openly campaign for the job, it’s good news for Italy and Europe.
Mattarella’s agreement to put off his retirement keeps Draghi at the helm of government. The pair have overseen a rare, nearly year-long period of unity and effective government and they will remain in office at least till the end of the legislature in spring 2023. That is a welcome guarantee of political stability and crucial for Italy and Europe. The country is receiving the biggest chunk of the bloc’s post-pandemic funds, which need to be spent well to boost overall European growth.