Discontent Among Lega's Northern Members After Salvini's Remarks

Matteo Salvini's recent remarks in Milano Marittima, where he declared his intention to serve his full term as Lega party secretary, have caused ripples of discontent among some party members. While his statement was formally in order, its substance has surprised those who have been advocating for changes in the party's leadership and organization for weeks.

Concerns are particularly palpable among regional leaders, including governors like Massimiliano Fedriga and Attilio Fontana, along with former president Luca Zaia and Maurizio Fugatti. These figures are closely watching the party's performance in opinion polls, which, with few exceptions, show a consistent decline. With the next general election less than a year away, a recurring question among them is how Salvini can expect to remain leader if the Lega's support drops to 4% or lower.

Salvini, however, remains optimistic, projecting that the center-right coalition will win the next election and that the Lega will surpass 10% support. This outlook, expressed both publicly and in private conversations, appears to be at odds with current polling data, leading some within the party to view his optimism as excessive.

Despite the internal dissent, Salvini has solidified his position. The party's statutes and the unanimous re-election of Salvini as secretary at the previous congress a year ago in Florence, which also extended his mandate, create a challenging path for any internal opposition. Younger deputies aligned with Salvini are quick to question the timing and motives of those now voicing criticism.

Governor Fedriga of Friuli-Venezia Giulia responded to Salvini's subtle challenge to regional leaders, stating, "We have always been a team as Lega, working for the movement, each in our own role." This assertion underscores a commitment to the party's collective efforts, while acknowledging the underlying strategic differences and palpable discontent felt in various regions, often expressed through banners or social media posts.