Italy’s Tourism Minister Santanchè Resigns After Referendum Defeat, June 08

Italy’s Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè resigned on June 7, 2026, after the government lost a referendum on judicial reform. Her departure followed a series of resignations by other officials tied to the ruling Fratelli d’Italia party. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assumed the interim role, signaling political strain within the coalition government.

Resignation Follows Referendum Loss

Santanchè left her post after Italian voters rejected the government’s constitutional reform of the judiciary. The defeat prompted immediate resignations from Justice Undersecretary Andrea Delmastro and Giusi Bartolozzi, chief of staff to Justice Minister Nordio. All three officials belonged to Meloni’s Fratelli d’Italia party. Santanchè’s departure came one day after Meloni requested she follow the example of the other resignations.

Minister’s Departure Message

In her resignation letter, Santanchè expressed reluctance but compliance. She wrote that she wanted her resignation kept separate from the other officials’ departures and stated she was accustomed to paying her own debts. Santanchè emphasized her loyalty to Meloni and the party’s future over her ministerial role. She acknowledged some disappointment with her tenure’s outcome but prioritized the government’s stability.

Meloni Assumes Interim Control

President Mattarella signed off on Meloni’s assumption of the Tourism Ministry portfolio. The Prime Minister issued a brief statement thanking Santanchè for her dedication and contributions. Meloni’s interim role signals continuity while the government navigates the political fallout from the referendum defeat and the wave of resignations.

Political Context and Stability

Justice Minister Nordio reassured the public that he would not resign, suggesting the government intends to stabilize after the departures. The referendum loss on judicial reform represents a significant setback for Meloni’s administration. The resignations reflect internal pressure within Fratelli d’Italia to respond to voter rejection of the constitutional changes.

Final Thoughts

Santanchè’s resignation marks a political adjustment within Italy’s government following the judicial reform referendum defeat. With Meloni taking interim control of Tourism, the administration aims to restore stability after multiple high-level departures.

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