Matteo Renzi: 'Congratulations to the Broad Field, but we are different. Without a reformist center, you cannot win'

Matteo Renzi, leader of Italia Viva, offered his congratulations to the nascent "Campo largo" coalition, an alliance of the Democratic Party (PD), the Five Star Movement (M5S), and the Greens and Left Alliance (Avs). However, Renzi was quick to clarify that his party stands apart from this bloc, which he believes, despite its 40% support, is not enough to secure victory.

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The broad field is the alliance between PD, M5S, and Avs. They define themselves as a "single bloc." Congratulations: we are not part of that bloc. They, all together, make 40% and it's not enough to win.

"We wish them well, but we are something else," Renzi stated, highlighting the necessity of a reformist center to complement the "Campo largo." He argued that such an area is crucial for winning elections and subsequently governing, advocating for a focus on concrete ideas ranging from judicial reform and the return of skilled expatriates to economic and cultural policies.

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For me yes. It's always better to let citizens decide. But while they decide the forms, we are more interested in characterizing ourselves by ideas on security, innovation, the cost of living. Not on names.

Renzi also addressed the potential for primaries within the center-left, asserting that citizens should decide. He indicated that Italia Viva would present its own candidate, expressing openness to figures like mayors but not explicitly naming anyone. The party plans to conclude its "primaries of ideas" at the Leopolda convention in early October, where it will also announce its chosen candidate.

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I led the country, I don't need to lead the reformist center. I simply want to help, because the idea of having Meloni at the Quirinale and Vannacci at Palazzo Chigi worries me.

Addressing concerns about a crowded center, Renzi acknowledged the presence of other centrist groups but maintained that Italia Viva cannot force alliances. He reiterated his commitment to contributing to a center-left victory, driven by a desire to prevent potential far-right leadership, but firmly stated he would not enter parliament with votes from the M5S or Avs, preferring to rely on his party's own strength and electoral support.

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I have already said that I will not enter the majority prize list. I will not go to Parliament with the votes of M5S and Avs, it would not be right for my history. My name is Matteo Renzi: if I enter, I enter with my votes and with my strength, not by begging for a seat from the coalition.