Episode description

Last year, Giorgia Meloni, an Italian far-right politician, became prime minister on an agenda that many feared would mark a radical turn for the country. Now, her visit to the White House last week has bolstered her credentials on the international stage.

Jason Horowitz, the Rome bureau chief for The New York Times, explains how she got here and the path she has carved out for Europe’s far-right parties.

Guest: Jason Horowitz, the Rome bureau chief for The New York Times.

Background reading: 

• At the White House, President Biden embraced Ms. Meloni as a friend and cast aside initial doubts that her far-right party might prove to be troublesome for Washington.
• Ms. Meloni has surprised many by showing a pragmatic streak since coming to power, though some still fear an authoritarian turn.

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