Italian Senate commission approves electoral law preference compromise

The Italian Senate's Constitutional Affairs Commission has reached a compromise regarding the inclusion of candidate preferences in the proposed electoral law reform. The center-right majority, comprising Fratelli d'Italia, Lega, and Forza Italia, demonstrated unity on the issue, overcoming previous legislative setbacks.

Under the proposed compromise, while the lead candidate remains blocked, voters will be able to express up to three preferences for other candidates. Gender alternation rules will apply starting from the second name on the list, differing from the 60-40% rule used in the current Rosatellum system.

Opposition parties, including the Democratic Party (PD), Five Star Movement (M5S), Avs, and Italia Viva, have united in opposition to the measure, labeling the move a “coup” and describing the new system as “fake preferences.” While the preference issue has been addressed, sensitive topics such as the majority bonus and potential run-off elections remain unresolved as the reform moves toward the Senate floor.