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Ex-athlete harboring political aspirations, specializing in hammer throw competitions

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and opposition leader Elly Schlein encounter rivaledom from Silvia Salis, another significant figure in Italian politics

Previous athlete aiming for political career
Previous athlete aiming for political career

Ex-athlete harboring political aspirations, specializing in hammer throw competitions

In the political landscape of Italy, a new figure is emerging, challenging the status quo and capturing the attention of the nation. Silvia Salis, a former Olympic athlete and current mayor of Genoa, is making headlines for her bold moves and ambitious plans.

Salis, a ten-time champion in hammer throwing, has recently made a significant impact in Italian politics. As a political newcomer, she won the mayoral election in Genoa as the leading candidate of the previously divided left. Her victory marked a shift in the city's political landscape, with Salis appointing women to 7 of the 12 posts in the city government.

Salis's political journey began in her hometown of Genoa, where she trained at a sports facility. Her father, a communist who worked as a caretaker at the same facility, instilled in her a strong sense of determination and resilience. These qualities served her well in her athletic career, where she participated in the Olympics twice, and in her political career, where she has been making waves.

As mayor, Salis has been focusing on social issues and economic development. She has ensured that the city's contracts are only awarded to companies that guarantee a minimum wage of nine euros. This move has been praised for its potential to alleviate poverty and promote economic equality.

Salis's political future is currently a topic of much discussion. Reports suggest that Matteo Renzi, the former PD leader and ex-PM, is working on a new centre-left coalition that will contest the parliamentary election with Salis as its leading candidate and figurehead. However, Salis has remained silent on these speculations, preferring to focus on her duties as mayor.

Despite the ongoing discussions about her political future, Salis has not forgotten her social responsibilities. She has shown solidarity with various causes, such as the Gaza aid fleet led by Greta Thunberg, and has condemned the 'genocide' in the Gaza Strip.

The upcoming elections in seven regions - Marche, Calabria, Tuscany, Veneto, Campania, Apulia, and Aosta Valley - could potentially shape the future of Italian politics. If the elections turn out to be disappointing for the opposition, the authority of the PD leader Elly Schlein as opposition leader and challenger to Giorgia Meloni, the current prime minister, could be weakened.

As the political scene in Italy continues to evolve, one thing is certain - Silvia Salis is a force to be reckoned with. Her athletic background, combined with her political acumen, makes her a formidable contender in the world of Italian politics. Whether she decides to run for prime minister or continue her work as mayor, one thing is for sure - she is not afraid to challenge the status quo and fight for what she believes in.

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