Italian Prime Minister and leader of the right-wing "Brothers of Italy" party, George Maloney, went from being a contemptible ultra-nationalist fanatic to being elected to high office in less than 10 years. Now she has become an influential figure in the political arena, for which Politico recognized her as "the most influential person in Europe."
Since Maloney's election as Italy's prime minister in 2022, she has introduced policies on issues such as migration and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. Other leaders of the European Union perceived it as a more radical zeitgeist.
Journalists recalled that Meloni became the first female prime minister in the history of Italy. At that time, few people believed that she would be able to stay in her position for a long time, but she proves the opposite.
Over the past two years, Maloni has consolidated her government as one of the most stable to exist in post-war Italy, the publication added. In addition, its carefully checked, businesslike appearance contributes to the formation of an image of stability.
Journalists recalled how once the president of the Campania region, Vincenzo De Luca, called the prime minister a "bitch". Afterwards, she appeared at an event in her region and greeted the opposition politician, saying: “President De Luca, I'm the same bitch, Meloni. How are you doing?
In addition to Maloney, winners in other categories were also announced. Among them is the head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, who topped the "Activists" rating.
German chancellor candidate Friedrich Mertz was placed first in the category of "Destroyers", and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte was recognized as the leader among "Dreamers", beating the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak.