ROME (Web Desk) – Sergio Mattarella was elected Italy’s new president in the third day of balloting by lawmakers, bagging the simple majority. New president is widely considered to be above the political fray.
He quickly set as priorities attention to his country’s moribund economy and the need for unity in Europe’s fight against a “new season of terror.”
Mattarella’s election as head of state was clinched when he amassed 505 votes – a simple majority. The former minister with center-left political roots went on to garner 665 votes from the 1,009 eligible electors.
Known as a man of few words, Mattarella, 73, cemented that reputation with his first remarks to the nation. “My thoughts go, above all, and before everything, to the difficulties and hopes of our fellow citizens. That’s enough,” he said at his court office.
