Renzi calls Meloni 'Lady Tax,' warns of Vannacci's threat to right-wing coalition

Matteo Renzi, leader of Italia Viva, has sharply criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's approach to taxation, accusing her of increasing the tax burden despite promises to cap it. Renzi labeled Meloni "Lady Tax" for her government's fiscal policies, pointing to increases in taxes on returning professionals, agriculture, excise duties, and VAT on children's products. He argued that while the wealthy should pay their share, excessive taxation drives them away, ultimately reducing state revenue.

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The rich pay a lot of taxes and that's right, but if they pay too many, the rich leave and we lose all the revenue.

Renzi also dismissed suggestions that he is collaborating with the far-right figure Roberto Vannacci against Meloni. He stated that Vannacci's views, particularly on LGBTQ+ rights, are diametrically opposed to his own. Instead, Renzi suggested that Meloni's party, Fratelli d'Italia, should be more concerned about Vannacci's growing influence, which he believes could threaten Meloni's electoral prospects. Renzi posited that if Vannacci runs independently, Meloni could lose the election, and that a coalition with Vannacci would force Meloni to compromise her liberal center values.

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Vannacci is the furthest thing from me: he says that gay people are not normal, I wanted civil unions, just to name one thing.

The interview touched upon the divisions within the Italian left regarding the war in Ukraine. Renzi acknowledged that both the center-left and the Five Star Movement are divided on the issue. He reiterated his own clear stance, supporting sanctions against Russia and the provision of weapons to Ukraine, while also advocating for diplomatic solutions.

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They are using human suffering for political gain.