Meloni Government Becomes the Longest-Serving in Modern Italy

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made history on Friday when her government became the longest-serving in modern Italy. Her government has been in charge for 1,413 days, which is one day more than the old record. That record was set by Silvio Berlusconi, a rich media businessman who served as prime minister several times. Since Italy became a republic 80 years ago, it has had 68 different governments, with most lasting only about 13 months.

Meloni and her party, Brothers of Italy, celebrated the milestone with a big event in the southern city of Bari. Around 80 buses brought supporters to the gathering, where Meloni gave a speech in the evening. Two deputy prime ministers joined the event by video call. The celebration also served as an early campaign event for Italy's 2027 national election.

Meloni's supporters say her four years in power have brought real results for Italy. They credit her government with adding one million jobs, keeping unemployment below 6%, and cutting personal income taxes by about $24 billion. Her party is also proud of what they say is a big drop in the number of migrants arriving in Italy.

Meloni has said Italy has become more respected around the world during her time as leader. A famous moment came when U.S. President Donald Trump said Meloni had begged him for a photo together. She fired back with a short but strong reply: "Italy doesn't beg." Many Italians felt proud of her response.

Not everyone agrees that Meloni's government has been a success. Critics say everyday life is still tough, with rising prices, low wages, and a healthcare system that is not working well enough. Maurizio Landini, head of a major workers' union, said job insecurity has grown and that basic costs like gas have gone up. He argued that wages have not kept up with these rising costs.

While Meloni's supporters celebrated in Bari, her opponents held a rival gathering across the city. Some accused her government of creating a climate of hate toward migrants and running a "police state." Others on the far right think she has become too moderate and has moved away from her original promises. Retired general Roberto Vannacci, whose party holds more extreme views, has been gaining in the polls and has passed two parties already in Meloni's coalition.