Meloni pushes tough security agenda as poll backs measures and Milan mayoral race shifts

Two government sources disclosed that a confidential poll confirmed high voter approval—over 60%—for the “who breaks pays” rule and other stringent security measures, prompting Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to foreground safety in the upcoming election campaign. The poll also indicated moderate backing for granting soldiers on the streets limited judicial police powers, though this idea was abandoned after the Quirinale intervened, as Vice-premier Antonio Tajani explained.

Within Forza Italia, Tajani reiterated his support for stronger military arrest powers, while party secretary Guido Crosetto declined comment. The security debate intersects with the centre-right’s search for a Milan mayoral candidate; after internal talks, Meloni is reportedly considering ultra-Salvini, anti-Islam figure Silvia Sardone, who may appeal to disaffected Milan voters. The decision is expected by early November, pending the Lega’s internal meeting.

Meanwhile, Italy’s secret services and the cyber-security agency are investigating whether foreign, possibly Russian, actors are stoking recent street unrest, a suspicion echoed by Tajani and Crosetto. The head of Aisi, Bruno Valensise, is set to appear before Copasir, while Matteo Salvini dismissed claims of external manipulation.