As the Italian Lega leader, Matthew Salvini is following in the footsteps of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Austrian FPO leader Heinz-Christian Strache, by forming a new group called ‘Patriots for Europe’ that aims to challenge the leftist dominance in Europe. The new group will be composed of parties such as the FPO, Chega from Portugal, and Salvini’s own Lega.
Salvini envisions a broader Eurogroup of Identity and Democracy that will include the French Rassemblement National and other like-minded parties. While awaiting a decision from the Brothers of Italy party, Salvini is also keeping an eye on Orban’s project to create a powerful alternative to the current political establishment.
Reactions to this move are mixed among FdI officials, with some expressing support for the idea of a new group while others remain skeptical about its potential success. Forza Italia is currently aligned with the European People’s Party (EPP) but has expressed support for collaboration with Meloni’s party in the European Parliament for the new commission.
The outcome of these negotiations will determine FdI’s position in the European Parliament and whether or not they join forces with other like-minded groups to challenge the current political order. Meloni is keeping all options open and seeking a prominent role for Italy in the new commission, possibly securing an economic portfolio and a vice presidency for Italian candidate Raffaele Fitto.
