Democratic Party, 2024 European elections: candidates, lists, and polls

The Democratic Party prepares for the European elections in 2024

The Democratic Party is gearing up for the 2024 European elections, with polls in Italy set to open on Saturday, June 8th and Sunday, June 9th, coinciding with the first round of local elections and regional elections in Piedmont.

Elly Schlein leads the way

The main goal of the Democratic Party in the upcoming European elections is to outperform their previous results, aiming to surpass the 20% threshold.
Secretary Elly Schlein has recently announced her candidacy as the head of the list for the Centre and Islands, with her name also included in the party’s symbol.

Besides Schlein, several aspiring candidates are emerging within the Democratic Party, including incumbent mayors finishing their second terms, outgoing MEPs, and representatives from civil society.

Election dynamics and candidates

The electoral law for the European elections does not allow for coalitions, but parties and movements can join forces in a single list.
Italy will elect 73 Members of the European Parliament proportionally based on the national vote share exceeding 4%.

The country is divided into five constituencies (North-West, North-East, Centre, South, and Islands), with the Democratic Party required to present a list for each.
Voters can express up to three preferences, with the most voted candidates securing a seat.

Securing a seat in Europe won’t be easy, as candidates are estimated to spend between €50,000 and €200,000 on their electoral campaigns.

Composition of the Democratic Party lists

The Democratic Party lists for the 2024 European elections include prominent figures such as Elly Schlein, Piero Bartolo, Lucia Annunziata, Stefano Bonaccini, and a roster of other candidates representing various constituencies across Italy.

Polling data for the Democratic Party

Recent polls consistently indicate the Democratic Party as the second political force in Italy behind Fratelli d’Italia, with a projected vote share ranging between 19% and 20%.
If these numbers hold true on election day, the Democratic Party is likely to secure 17 seats in the European Parliament.