Massimo Franco
Massimo Franco
contest decided minister prime result victory
The prime minister has decided to contest the result and to use a 'mutilated victory' as a long-term weapon.
elections footage george impressed issue italian italians overly promised television voted voters worse
Italian voters are not going to be overly impressed by television footage of Berlusconi with George Bush. The overriding issue in these elections is the economy. In 2001, Italians voted for Berlusconi because he promised they would be better off: actually they feel worse off.
ability admirable interpret
He still has an admirable ability to interpret the country.
era fears interests left magic problems remain seen social solve strong symbol wizard
The era of Berlusconi seen as a wizard who would solve the country's problems with a magic wand is over. But Berlusconi as the symbol of a social bloc, of interests and fears of the left that remain strong in this country, is not done.