Stefano Balleari has been elected as the President of the Regional Council of Liguria, becoming the twenty-second individual to hold this position. The inaugural session of the XII Legislature took place on Tuesday, November 26, in the “Sandro Pertini” Regional Council Chamber in Genoa. During the session, the President of the Regional Government, Marco Bucci, reaffirmed his commitment to the Constitution and the Statute of the Liguria Region.
The assembly was led by the oldest councilor, Giovanni Boitano, assisted by the youngest councilors, Federico Bogliolo and Federico Romeo, who served as secretaries. A key moment of the day was the formation of the Electoral Committee, tasked with verifying the eligibility of the regional councilors. The committee was comprised of five members elected through limited voting.
For the majority, Rocco Invernizzi proposed the candidatures of Sara Foscolo, Carlo Bagnasco, and Matteo Campora, while for the minority, Gianni Pastorino suggested Simone D’Angelo and Stefano Giordano. Following a secret ballot, Simone D’Angelo, Matteo Campora, Sara Foscolo, Carlo Bagnasco, and Stefano Giordano were elected.
Subsequently, the Election of the Office of the Presidency took place. Matteo Campora nominated Stefano Balleari as the presidential candidate for the majority, while Armando Sanna put forward Roberto Arboscello for the minority. Balleari was elected president with 17 votes, and Arboscello was chosen as vice president with 14 votes.
After the election of the president and vice president, Giovanni Boitano stepped aside for the new president, Stefano Balleari. Finally, the election of the Secretary Counselor of the Office of the Presidency was conducted. Matteo Campora recommended Angelo Vaccarezza, who was elected with 17 votes, while Selena Candia received 13 votes.
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Speech by the newly appointed President of the Regional Council Stefano Balleari
At the conclusion of the elections, the President of the Regional Council, Stefano Balleari, addressed the assembly. “I express my gratitude to the regional Assembly for the trust and great responsibility entrusted to me,” he began, “which I undertake with the awareness of being called to perform an important role to ensure the impartiality of the Chamber and the rights of individual Councilors, in the interest of the entire Ligurian community.”
The president continued: “Today’s vote grants me one of the most prestigious roles of my political journey. A path spanning almost twenty years, which has helped me grow both as a man and as a politician, always striving to lend ear and attention to the territory. If I have succeeded in this, I owe it to my family, whom I thank, and to all those who have believed in me: their support has been the cornerstone of my journey.”
Reflecting on his administrative experience in the City Council, the president emphasized: “The discussions and debates may at times be intense and heated; however, I hope that, even amidst the lively political dialogue, we do not exceed the boundaries of fairness and mutual respect. I will be the guarantor of this. Equally, I hope that pointless and instrumental controversies remain outside this chamber, allowing room for the practicality, seriousness, and pragmatism that the Ligurians demand of us.”
“I hope,” he expressed, “that this Legislature will be marked by communication aimed at listening, debate, dialogue, and the narration of outcomes, steering clear of sensationalism and using tones befitting the prestige of this Chamber. I am committed to moderating proceedings as a neutral figure: clearly, transparently, calmly, yet decisively, fully respecting the Regulations.”
President Balleari stated that the relationship between the Council and the Executive will be crucial, and “while respecting their respective roles and differences, both will need to interact continuously and be on equal footing. Only through dialogue and collaboration can we achieve the effective and timely responses the Ligurians expect.”
After greeting the citizens of Liguria, represented by the Legislative Assembly, he added: “I fully grasp the significant responsibility, which commits me to always prioritize the greater interest of the community, hoping that all administrators of Ligurian municipalities and local entities see the Regional Assembly as the ‘common home’ to refer to and identify with.”
The president concluded by wishing his fellow Councilors a productive term, especially those in their first term, encouraging them “to utilize all the tools the democratic system offers, to do so with enthusiasm, generosity, and dedication because political activity is and must remain, above all, a mission, a service.”
The oath of the President of the Regional Giunta Marco Bucci
Before the session concluded, the President of the Regional Executive Cabinet (Giunta), Marco Bucci, addressed the new Regional Council. “This significant occasion marks the beginning of a new journey for our Region. Every day, every evening, every night, we have the duty to connect with the Ligurian citizens because they are the ones who brought us here, and we serve them. We must not take this trust for granted.”
The president emphasized, “The Council is not just the place for political decisions but is the heart of regional democracy. We also aim to be a model for all citizens: a model of democracy, a model of behavior, a model for citizens who see us as those who, in some way, lead the system. We must remember this example every minute we are in this Hall, and especially when we are outside of it.”
The president of the executive cabinet expressed hope for debate and discussion: “However, in the end, we must make decisions, which is not only a right but a great duty we owe to the citizens.” “We are here because we have a common goal: to build a better Liguria. This is the objective of all of us, and there is no difference in opinion or ideology: we all want a better Liguria.”
“We are laying the foundations for a Liguria that will be home to future generations. Let us always remember that we have a duty to think of our children, our grandchildren, and those who will come after. We are here to make decisions, and it is our duty to decide. If we delay difficult decisions, we harm ourselves, but more importantly, we harm our children.”
At the end of his speech, the President of the Executive Cabinet, Marco Bucci, took the oath: “I swear to be faithful to the Constitution of the Republic, the Statute of the Liguria Region, and the laws, and to perform the duties of President of the Regional Executive Cabinet in the interest of the Region and the Ligurian Community.”
The Regional Council-Legislative Assembly, excluding the President of the Executive Cabinet, Marco Bucci, comprises 30 councilors, of whom 5 are women. The councilors elected for the first time are 16. Giovanni Boitano, Giovanni Battista Pastorino, and Angelo Vaccarezza are serving their third term. Marco Scajola returns to the Regional Council for the fourth time.
Profile of the Regional Councilors of the Twelfth Legislature
Marco Bucci
He is married and the father of Matteo and Francesca. Among his passions are hiking in the Genoese hinterland and a profound love for mountaineering and the sea. A native of Genoa, after earning his degree in Chemistry and Pharmacy, he lived across Europe and the United States, holding significant managerial roles in major companies. From the mid-1980s until the late 1990s, he worked for 3M in the chemical sector. Subsequently, from 1999 to 2016, he was engaged with Kodak and Carestream Health, focusing on global brand expansion strategies. From 2015 to 2017, he served as the sole administrator of Liguria Digitale. From 2017 to 2024, he was the Mayor of Genoa, re-elected for a second term in June 2022, and has been acting as the Extraordinary Commissioner for the Reconstruction of the Polcevera Viaduct since November 2018. Additionally, in November 2023, he was appointed commissioner for the construction of the new Outer Breakwater of the Port of Genoa and the sub-port tunnel. In October 2024, Marco Bucci was elected President of the Liguria Region for the twelfth legislature with 291,089 votes.
Roberto Arboscello
Born in Savona on August 8, 1973, he is a father of three. After earning a diploma as a Chemical Technician, he graduated in Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Technology from the University of Genoa. He began his career as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, later moving to Florence to take on the role of Product Manager for a pharmaceutical multinational. Returning to Liguria in 2007, he became the head of the galenic laboratory at a pharmacy in Savona and served as the technical director at wholesale drug distributors. Since 2021, he has been a co-owner of a rural pharmacy in Savona. In 2020, he became a board member of the Pharmacists’ Association in the province of Savona. His political journey began in 2009 when he was elected Councilor in the Municipality of Bergeggi, where he was elected Mayor in 2014 and re-elected in 2019 with a civic list. In 2014, he took on the role of President of the Protected Marine Area “Isola di Bergeggi”. He has been a member of the Democratic Party since 2017. In 2018, he became the city secretary in Savona and in 2019 was appointed deputy provincial secretary. As of 2023, he is part of the National Assembly. Elected in 2020 as a Regional Councilor for the Democratic Party in the Savona district, he became the vice-president of the III Commission. In 2023, he was appointed regional deputy group leader. In October 2024, he was re-elected as a Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature in the Savona constituency, with the “Democratic Party-Orlando President” list, obtaining 6,035 votes. On November 26, 2024, he was elected Deputy President of the Regional Council-Legislative Assembly of the Regional Council of Liguria.
Stefano Balleari
He graduated with a degree in Economics and Commerce from the University of Genoa. Between 1984 and 2007, he served as both CEO and Chairman of the Board for various family-owned companies involved in the wholesale and retail food sector. Since 2007, he has held the position of Administrative Director for a group in the earth-moving machinery sector, offering consultancy services to businesses. In 2008, he passed the exam to become a licensed real estate agent. Also in 2007, he was elected as a Municipal Councilor in Genoa for the Forza Italia list. Two years later, he became the Vice President of the Municipal Council, and in 2011, he joined the AICCRE regional board. In 2012, he was re-elected as a Municipal Councilor with the People of Freedom list. In 2015, he joined Brothers of Italy, and in 2017, he ran for Mayor of Genoa. From 2017 to 2020, he served as Deputy Mayor and Councilor of Genoa. Elected as a Regional Councilor in 2020 with Brothers of Italy, he became the group leader in the XI legislature. In October 2024, he was re-elected as a Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature for the Genoa constituency with the list “Giorgia Meloni for Bucci President-Brothers of Italy,” receiving 3,656 votes and becoming the most voted candidate in Liguria from the list. On November 26, 2024, he was elected as the President of the Regional Council-Legislative Assembly of Liguria.
Carlo Bagnasco
Born in Genoa on May 15, 1977, he holds a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Genoa. He is married and has two children. At the age of twenty, he joined the Forza Italia party. In 2007, he was elected as a city councilor in Rapallo, ranking second in terms of votes. He was re-elected as a city councilor in Rapallo in 2012 with the highest number of preferences. The following year, he became the Forza Italia group leader. In 2014, he was elected as the Mayor of Rapallo and was re-elected in 2019, serving until the end of the administrative term in June 2024. In 2017, he was elected as a councilor for the Metropolitan City of Genoa and became the Deputy Mayor of Genoa. Currently, he serves as the regional coordinator of Forza Italia. In October 2024, he was elected as a Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Genoa constituency with the “Forza Italia Berlusconi-Bucci President” list, receiving 4,745 preferences.
Carola Baruzzo
Born in Sarzana on February 18, 1980, she continues to reside there. She earned a Scientific High School Diploma. Since 2019, she has been the Head of the local office of Epasa-Itaco Patronato. Between 2017 and 2018, she worked with CNA La Spezia, an association for artisan employers, handling labor relations. From 2010 to 2012, she held various temporary positions at Elleuno Social Cooperative. From 2013 to 2015, she engaged in project-based collaborations with Val di Magra Formazione, coordinating and managing secretarial duties for projects supporting vulnerable individuals. From 2002 to 2006, she collaborated with ARCA Enel as an international tour leader and tutor for the Arca Cinema Giovani project. Between 2012 and 2022, she served as a Municipal Councilor and Assessor for Social Services, Culture, and Public Education in the Municipality of Luni. From 2014 to 2017, she was a Provincial Councilor for La Spezia Province. Since 2021, she has been the President of the Audiovisual Museum of Resistance in the provinces of Massa Carrara and La Spezia. In October 2024, she was elected Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature for the La Spezia constituency, running on the “Partito Democratico-Orlando Presidente” list and receiving 3,581 votes.
Federico Bogliolo
Born in Milan on December 19, 1992, he graduated from the Giandomenico Cassini Scientific High School. On October 20, 2016, he earned his Law degree from the University of Genoa with highest honors (110/110 with distinction). He began his legal practice at a renowned criminal law firm in Genoa. Simultaneously, in February 2017, he won a competitive selection allowing him to undertake an 18-month internship at the Judges’ Office of the Genoa Tribunal. Here, he participated in deliberations, hearings, and the drafting of judgments. In December 2018, he passed the State Examination for admission to the bar. A few months later, in December 2019, after excelling in the oral exam, he was recognized by the Genoa Bar Association as the youngest lawyer in the Genoese Bar. During his academic years, he held significant roles in international institutions, also engaging in internships and training meetings. While at university, he was dedicated to social and political activities: in 2012, he ran for the position of Councillor of Municipality IX Levante (Genoa) and was elected with 200 votes. In 2017, he ran again for the same position and was elected with 340 votes, soon becoming Vice President and Councillor for Maintenance, Roads, Urban Planning, and Sports. In 2020, he ran for the Regional Council of Liguria, finishing as the first runner-up with 1,707 votes. In 2022, he was elected President of the Levante Municipality, a position he currently holds. In October 2024, he was elected Councillor for the XII Legislature in the Genoa constituency with the “Bucci President-Vince Liguria” list, receiving 2,070 votes.
Giovanni Boitano
Born in 1950 in Favale di Malvaro, he is married with two children. He graduated in mechanical engineering and worked until retirement at a prominent international electromechanical and nuclear company. He served as a provincial councillor from 1985 to 1993, and as Mayor of Favale from 1994 to 2004 and again from 2009 to 2010, when he stepped down to take on the role of Assessor for Housing, Construction, and Public Works in the IX Legislature. For over 15 years, he was an Assessor in the Mountain Community Fontanabuona and President of the Rio Marsiglia Consortium. He also served as the territorial secretary for Levante with the Christian Democracy, later becoming the provincial secretary of Forza Italia in Genoa before joining the UDC in 2009. For more than twenty years, he has been a member of the ANCI Liguria board. In the X Legislature, he joined the Regional Council in April 2018. Re-elected in the XI Legislature, he was confirmed for the third time as a Regional Councillor in the XII Legislature in October 2024 for the Genoa constituency, with the list “Pride Liguria-Bucci President,” receiving 1710 votes.
Alessandro Bozzano
Born on June 17, 1967, residing in Varazze, he is married and a father of one daughter. He earned his degree in Law from the University of Pavia and practices as an independent lawyer. He has served as a city councilor in Varazze, with roles as the Deputy Mayor, and as an Assessor for budget, financial planning, property, and public works. In 2014, he was elected Mayor of Varazze and was re-elected in 2019. He served as a Provincial Councilor in Savona for two terms, handling delegations for environment and hunting and fishing. Elected as a Regional Councilor in 2020, he was the Vice President of the VI Antimafia Commission until January 2024. From January 2024, he led as the President of the “Cambiamo con Toti presidente” group. In October 2024, he was re-elected as Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Savona constituency, with the list “Bucci Presidente-Vince Liguria,” securing 1,889 votes.
Matteo Campora
Born in Genoa on January 5, 1971, he graduated in Law from the University of Genoa in 1995. He practices as a civil lawyer independently with a multidisciplinary law firm. He holds the title of Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. From 1997 to 2007, he served as Councillor and Group Leader of the District Council III Bassa Val Bisagno in the Municipality of Genoa. During the same period, he provided legal assistance at the Vicarial Listening Center. From 2007 to 2017, he was a Councillor for the Municipality of Genoa. From 2007 to 2012, he served as Vice President of the Institutional Affairs Committee. Since 2007, he has been the President of the Santa Margherita Catholic Workers’ Society in Marassi, Genoa. Between 2009 and 2012, he was the Group Leader in the Municipal Council. From 2002 to 2012, he was a part of the Building Commission for the Municipality of Rovegno (GE). Since 2012, he has been the Vice President of the Council Committee for Productive Activities. From 2013, he has served as Vice President of the Municipal Consultation for the prevention of Gambling. In 2014, he became a founding member of the Observatory on Civil Justice at the Genoa Court. Since 2015, he has been a full member of the Regional Consultation for the Protection of Consumer and User Rights (Region of Liguria), representing ANCI. From 2016, he has served as Vice President of the Ligurian Catholic Workers’ Federation (FOCL). Since 2017, he has been the President of the Consortium Assembly Villa Serra Comago, President of the Electoral Commission, and Assessor for Civic Services, Environment, and Waste Cycle. Since 2019, he has been the Assessor for Ecological Transition, Transport, Mobility, Environment, and Waste Cycle. In 2022, he took on the role of Assessor for Ecological Transition, Integrated Mobility, Environment, Waste, Energy, and Smart City; and became the Coordinator of the Environment Commission for Anci Liguria. In October 2024, he was elected Regional Councillor in the XII Legislature in the Genoa District, with the list “Bucci President-Win Liguria,” obtaining 1,933 preferences.
Selena Candia
Born in Genoa on August 30, 1987, she graduated in Civil Engineering from the University of Genoa and is certified to practice as an architect. From 2019 to 2024, she pursued a PhD at the Department of Civil, Chemical, and Environmental Engineering, focusing on a research project about sustainable tourism in territorial planning. Since 2013, she has been involved in academic research at the Department of Civil, Chemical, and Environmental Engineering at the University of Genoa (DICCA). She has developed and participated in European projects promoting sustainable territorial development and has published over 25 articles in Italian and international scientific journals. Her main areas of focus include sustainable mobility, the circular economy, and tourism. In 2020, she was elected as a Regional Councillor for the “Ferruccio Sansa President” list. In October 2024, she was re-elected as a Regional Councillor for the XII Legislature in the Genoa constituency with the “Green Left Alliance (AVS)-Sansa List-Possible-Green Europe-Italian Left” list, securing 4,141 votes.
Jan Casella
Born in Albenga on May 2, 1989, he currently resides in Alassio. After graduating from the Agricultural Institute of Albenga, he earned a master’s degree in Historical, Archival, and Library Sciences from the University of Genoa. Between June 2005 and September 2018, he worked as a waiter at a renowned local restaurant. In July 2007, he was employed at CESED (Educational Services Center) as a solar camp educator. From November 2017 to September 2018, he served as a social care worker at the Jobel Cooperative. Between May and June 2018, he was a substitute teacher at the Boselli-Alberti Institute for Surveyors. Since 2019, he has been an insurance consultant for a prominent company in the field. From November 2021 to November 2024, he worked at E.L.Fo (Ligurian Training Entity) as an educator/trainer/teacher specializing in youth fragility. From May 2011 to January 2013, he was the Group Leader in the City Council for Sinistra Alassina. Between June 2018 and May 2023, he served as a City Councilor for Alassio Volta Pagina, and since May 2023, he has been the Group Leader in the City Council for Alassio di Tutti. In October 2024, he was elected Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Savona constituency with the list Alleanza Verdi Sinistra (AVS)-Lista Sansa-Possibile-Europa Verde-Sinistra Italiana, securing 1931 votes.
Simone D’Angelo
Born in Genoa on November 4, 1987, he lives with his partner and has a son named Pietro. Raised in the Oregina neighborhood, he discovered civic engagement through the missionary passion of Don Prospero Bonzani. His political journey began in the student movement at the Convitto Nazionale Cristoforo Colombo of Genoa, where he earned his scientific high school diploma. He later joined the Democratic Party. A port worker, since 2019 he has been employed at Santa Barbara Srl with responsibilities in accounting and administration. Since 2021, he has served as the Metropolitan Secretary of the Democratic Party in Genoa. In 2023, he was part of the movement that led Elly Schlein to be elected Secretary of the Democratic Party, becoming a member of the National Directorate. From 2022 to 2024, he was a City Councilor in Genoa. At Palazzo Tursi, he held the position of Group Leader for the Democratic Party, focusing on labor, rights, environment, health, youth, and marginalization. In October 2024, he was elected Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature for the Genoa constituency with the “Democratic Party-Orlando President” list, receiving 4,124 votes.
Simona Ferro
Born in Genoa in 1969, she graduated from the Arecco Private Institute of Genoa and earned her degree from the Faculty of Law at the University of Genoa. She is a freelance lawyer specializing in both judicial activities and out-of-court consultancy, serving individuals, multinational corporations, leading companies, and organizations across various fields. During the XI Legislature, she served as a Regional Councilor with responsibilities for sports, education, university, equal opportunities, childhood values protection, and pet welfare. In October 2024, she was elected as a Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Genoa constituency with the list “Giorgia Meloni for Bucci President – Brothers of Italy,” receiving 3,212 votes.
Sara Foscolo
Born in Loano (Sv) on September 3, 1973, she served as a volunteer for the Italian Red Cross in the local committee of Genoa from 1999 to 2006. Between 2011 and 2013, she was a member of the Women’s Council of the Province of Savona. From June 2013 to October 2014, she held the position of Councillor for Tourism, Culture, Sport, and Coordination of Community Policies in the Province of Savona. From June 2014 to June 2024, she served as a Councillor for the Municipality of Pietra Ligure (Sv). Between June 2014 and February 2018, she was the Deputy Mayor of Pietra Ligure (Sv). From June 2014 to January 2015, she was the Councillor for Tourism and Entertainment in Pietra Ligure, and from January 2015 to July 2017, she acted as the Councillor for Social Policies, Youth Affairs, and Productive Activities of the same municipality. From March 2017 to October 2020, she was part of the Provincial Board of Savona for Lega Nord. Between July 2017 and February 2018, she held the position of Councillor for Social Policies, Youth Affairs, Productive Activities, Municipal Police, and Traffic in Pietra Ligure. From March 2018 to October 2022, she served as a Member of Parliament during the XVIII Legislature, part of the XII Standing Committee on Social Affairs of the Chamber of Deputies, and a member of the Parliamentary Committee for Regional Issues, while also leading the “Lega Salvini Premier” group.
Between June 2019 and June 2022, she was the local representative for the Pietra Ligure and Valmaremola (Sv) section of “Lega Salvini Premier”. Since March 2022, she has been the Head of the Department for Disability for Liguria Lega Salvini Premier. From June 2024 to now, she has served as a Councillor for the Municipality of Massimino (Sv) with responsibilities for Social Policies and Relations with Entities. Since November 2022, she has been the Provincial Secretary of Savona for Lega Salvini Premier. In October 2024, she was elected as a Regional Councillor in the XII Legislature for the Savona constituency, with the list “Lega Liguria- Bucci Presidente,” receiving 2,187 votes.
Marco Frascatore
Born on November 20, 1973, he graduated in Political Science with a historical-political focus from the University of Florence “Cesare Alfieri” and earned a specialized degree in History of Journalism. Since 2016, he has been registered in the Unified Register of Financial Advisors. He has completed additional masters and specializations in the financial sector and has held operational roles in several national credit institutions. In January 2021, he achieved the title of Managed Savings Product Specialist at Banca Carige for the Tigullio and La Spezia area. In June 2017, he was elected City Councilor of La Spezia, serving as Vice President of the City Council and President of the IV Permanent Commission on Health, Public Education, Social and Youth Policies, Childhood, Training, Culture, University, and Workplace Safety. In July 2022, he was appointed Assessor of Finance, Budget, Taxes, Commerce, Productive Activities, Sports, and Sports Facilities of La Spezia. In October 2024, he was elected Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the La Spezia district with the “Pride Liguria-Bucci President” list, receiving 568 preferences.
Stefano Giordano
Graduated from the Palazzi Institute in Genoa with a high school diploma, currently serving as a Fire Brigade Team Leader since January 2017. Responsible for the maintenance and management of fire department vehicles in the Province of Genoa, he has been a USB Union Leader since 1999. From 2017 to 2022, he was a city councilor in the Municipality of Genoa, focusing on urban planning, community engagement, social inclusion policies, environmental protection initiatives, cultural event organization, and emergency management. During his tenure, he submitted and debated over 500 motions. Since 2022, he has been a Councilor for the Central East Municipality of Genoa. In 2023, he became the Provincial Coordinator of the Five Star Movement, organizing the formation of local groups across the Province of Genoa. In October 2024, he was elected as a Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature for the Genoa district, with the “Five Star Movement 2050” list, securing 1,497 votes.
Rocco Invernizzi
Born on April 12, 1971, in Albenga (SV), he resides in Alassio (SV) and is the father of a son. He graduated in Law from the University of Genoa and worked as a financial advisor for a major bank from 2001 to 2015 after passing the necessary exam. He is currently a freelance professional in the field of property management. From 2001 to 2006, he served as a municipal councilor in Alassio with a focus on Maritime Property and IT. Between 2006 and 2011, he was an Assessor in the Alassio municipality with the same responsibilities. From 2013 to 2018, he held the position of President of the City Council of Alassio and was in charge of budget, taxes, and participated companies, also participating as a member of the C.A.L. Since 2018, he has been the Assessor for Public Works, Maritime Property, Environment, and IT, a position he held until November 2024. Following his election as a Regional Councilor on the Brothers of Italy list, he resumed his role in Public Works and Maritime Property as a City Councilor. He is a member of the Board of Directors of the Consorzio Energia Liguria IRE. In October 2024, he was elected as a Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Savona district with the list “Giorgia Meloni for Bucci president-Fratelli d’Italia,” receiving 1,493 votes.
Enrico Ioculano
Born on July 2, 1985, and residing in Ventimiglia, he graduated with honors in Political Science from the University of Genoa. In 2006, he participated in the Erasmus program at the Universidad Complutense in Madrid. In 2012, he obtained a master’s degree in Political Economy from the University of Genoa in collaboration with the Edoardo Garrone Foundation. In 2024, he earned a second-level university master’s diploma in Health Economics and Management and subsequently received a certification in managerial training for top healthcare management, in accordance with Legislative Decree n.502/92 of December 30, 1992, and the State-Regions Agreement of July 10, 2003, and the DGR n.1192 of October 5, 2012. From 2010 to 2014, he collaborated with the Democratic Party Group of the Liguria Region. In 2010, he worked with the “Política Internacional y Cooperación” office at the PSOE in Madrid. In 2014, he was elected Mayor of Ventimiglia, serving until 2019. From 2015 to 2017, and again starting in 2019, he has been a councilor for the Province of Imperia, focusing on European Funds. He is a member of the National Council of ANCI and the National Presidency Office of ALI – LegAutonomie. He was elected as a Regional Councilor of Liguria for the Imperia constituency in the elections on September 20 and 21, 2020. In October 2024, he was re-elected as a Regional Councilor in the XII legislature in the Imperia constituency, with the list “Partito Democratico-Orlando Presidente,” obtaining 4,508 votes.
Luca Lombardi
Born in Sanremo in 1969, he resides there with his wife and son. After graduating as a surveyor from the Cristoforo Colombo Institute in Sanremo, he established himself since 1989 as an entrepreneur and executive in the retail and wholesale clothing sector. From 2004 to 2007, he served as a councilor for Confcommercio Sanremo, and from 2008 to 2011, he was a councilor for the province of Imperia with Federmoda Italia. Since 2017, he has been a member of the executive board of Anci Liguria, contributing to the development of local policies. Since 2014, he has been the group leader for Fratelli d’Italia in the Sanremo City Council. In October 2024, he was elected as a Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Imperia constituency, with the list “Giorgia Meloni for Bucci President-Fratelli d’Italia”, earning 3090 votes.
Gianmarco Medusei
Born on April 17, 1978, and residing in La Spezia, he is the father of four children. He earned a degree in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Parma. Since 2004, he has served as a medical officer in the Italian Navy. Four years later, he obtained a specialization in Otorhinolaryngology from the San Martino University Clinic in Genoa. He ran in the municipal elections of La Spezia in 2012 and 2017, and in the political elections of 2013. In 2017, he was appointed Assessor of the Municipality of La Spezia, overseeing Security, Municipal Police, Health, IT Services, Demographics, and Cemeteries. In September 2020, during the regional elections in Liguria, he was elected to the Regional Council with 4,573 votes, making him the most voted candidate in the Spezzino district and the most voted for the Lega in Liguria. On October 27, 2020, he was elected President of the Legislative Assembly of Liguria’s Regional Council. On April 19, 2021, he was appointed by the Conference of Presidents of the Legislative Assemblies of the Regions and Autonomous Provinces as the national coordinator of the Health Commissions of the Regional Councils. In October 2024, he was re-elected as a Regional Councilor in the Twelfth Legislature in the La Spezia constituency, with the list “Giorgia Meloni per Bucci presidente-Fratelli d’Italia,” obtaining 2,758 votes and emerging as the top vote-getter of the list in the Spezzino district.
Davide Natale
Born on October 21, 1971, and residing in La Spezia, he graduated with a degree in Law from the University of Parma and obtained a Master’s in Port, Maritime, and Logistics Law from the University of Bologna. Since 2005, he has worked in the Legal Affairs Department at LSCT S.p.A. (La Spezia Container Terminal). From July 2019 to 2020, he served as the Sole Director of Industriale Canaletto. Between 1997 and 2007, he was a City Councilor in La Spezia. From March to October 2007, he was the Provincial Secretary of the Democrats of the Left in La Spezia. From October 2007 to June 2010, he was the Territorial Coordinator for the Democratic Party in La Spezia. From May 2008 to June 2010, he served as a Provincial Councilor in La Spezia. From May 2010 to March 2016, he was an Assessor in the Municipality of La Spezia. From 2016 to June 2021, he served as a City Councilor in Brugnato and from June 2017 to August 2019 as a Provincial Councilor in La Spezia. Elected as a Regional Councilor for the Democratic Party in 2020, he took on the role of Vice President of the IV Commission. From 2021 to 2022, he was the President of the Special Commission for Next Generation EU (PNRR) – Environment Territory. Since 2023, he has been the Regional Secretary for the Democratic Party in Liguria. In October 2024, he was re-elected as a Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature in the La Spezia district with the list “Democratic Party-Orlando President,” earning 5,067 preferences.
Andrea Orlando
Born on February 8, 1969, in La Spezia, where he currently resides. He holds a diploma in scientific studies. Since November 1995, he has served as a leader, initially for PDS and DS, and later for the PD, taking a leave of absence in March 2018. He was a City Councilor in Spezia from 1990 to 1997 and again from 2002 to 2007. From 1993 to 1997, he led the Democratic Party of the Left in the Spezia City Council. Between 1997 and 2002, he was the Councilor for Productive Activities and Urban Planning in the municipality of La Spezia. Since April 2006, spanning from the XV to the XIX Legislature, he has been a member of the Chamber of Deputies, participating in various committees including Budget, Environment, Justice, Anti-Mafia, and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. From April 2013 to February 22, 2014, he served as Minister of Environment and Protection of Land and Sea in the Letta Government. From February 2014 to June 10, 2018, he was the Minister of Justice in both the Renzi and Gentiloni Silveri governments. Between February 2021 and October 22, 2022, he held the position of Minister of Labor and Social Policies in the Draghi Government. He also served as deputy secretary of the Democratic Party from April 2019 to March 17, 2021. In October 2024, he ran for president of the regional council in the XII Legislature, garnering 282,671 votes and was elected as a Regional Councilor.
Giovanni Battista Pastorino
Born in Genoa on July 26, 1959, he has a 21-year-old daughter. While studying at the Faculty of Law, he was hired by the Customs Agency as a tax officer at the Ponte Chiasso Customs Office. In 1988, he returned to the Customs Office in Genoa and began his union activities, initially as a delegate for CGIL Public Function, later joining the national leadership group of the CGIL Public Function with a focus on the Customs Agency, becoming its national coordinator in 2002. He remained in the category for about 11 years, also dealing with other strategic sectors such as the Municipality of Genoa. In March 2012, he was elected General Secretary of SLC CGIL Genoa, a category concerned with Post, Telecommunications, Theaters, RAI, private broadcasting, and all productive activities related to the paper supply chain. He served on the Executive Committee of the Genoa Chamber of Labor and the national SLC CGIL Board. During the 10th Legislature, he was elected regional Councilor, serving as the group leader for Rete a Sinistra and later for Linea Condivisa, and as Vice President of the II Health and Social Security Commission. He was re-elected as a regional Councilor in the 11th Legislature, again holding the position of Vice President of the II Health and Social Security Commission. In October 2024, he was re-elected for the third time as a regional Councilor in the 12th Legislature in the Genoa district, with the “Lista Andrea Orlando Presidente,” receiving 3,277 votes.
Alessandro Piana
Born on May 9, 1972, he graduated as an agrotechnician and is an agricultural entrepreneur. From 2006 to 2011, he was a Municipal Councilor in Pontedassio. Between 2005 and 2010, he served as the Lega Nord Group Leader in the Provincial Council of Imperia. From 2009 to 2011, he was an Assessor in Pontedassio and Deputy Mayor from 2014 to 2015. He was the President of the Provincial Council of Imperia from 2010 to 2015. Elected as a Regional Councilor on the Lega Nord list in 2015, he was re-elected on the “Lega Liguria Salvini” list in the September 2020 elections. In the Region, he served as President of the Regional Council from 2018 to 2020, and as Assessor and Deputy President of the Regional Executive from 2020 to 2024. From May 2024 to October 2024, he was the acting President of the Regional Executive. In October 2024, he was re-elected for the third time as a Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature for the Imperia constituency, on the “Lega Liguria- Bucci Presidente” list, with 3,500 votes.
Alessio Piana
Born in Genoa on October 24, 1976, he collaborated with the Agriculture and Environment Department of the Liguria Region from 2000 to 2005. Since 2002, he has been employed by the Regional Council Legislative Assembly of Liguria in the Secretariat of the Presidency Office. From 2007 to 2012 and again from 2015 to 2017, he served as the Lega group leader in the Genoa City Council. Between 2011 and 2013, he held the position of provincial secretary for the Genoa Lega, and from 2017 to 2020, he was the President of the Genoa City Council and a member of the ANCI Liguria Presidency Office. From 2018 to 2020, he was the Genoa City Commissioner for Lega. From 2021 to 2023, he served as the President of the CAL (Council of Local Autonomies of the Liguria Region). In 2020, he was elected Regional Councilor in the Legislative Assembly of Liguria (Lega Liguria-Salvini Group) and became the President of the III Commission for Productive Activities. In November 2023, he was appointed Economic Development Assessor in the regional government, a role he held until the end of the XII Legislature. In October 2024, he was re-elected as a Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature in the Genoa constituency, with the list “Lega Liguria-Bucci President,” receiving 2,767 votes.
Katia Piccardo
Born in Genoa on March 13, 1984, she resides in Rossiglione and has a 7-year-old daughter named Marta. She graduated with a degree in Jurisprudence from the University of Genoa – Faculty of Law, achieving a grade of 110/110 cum laude. Since March 2009, she has been a credit analyst. From November 2023 to the present, she has served as a Health Representative in the Secretary of the Democratic Party of Liguria; from November 2021 to November 2023, she was the Deputy Secretary of the Democratic Party of Genoa; since September 2017, she has been a member of the ANCI Liguria Board; since July 2020, she has been a National Councillor of the National Association of Local Authorities; since October 2020, she has been the Regional Coordinator of UNCEM; since May 2014, she has held the position of Mayor in the Municipality of Rossiglione; from June 2004 to June 2014, she was a Councillor and Assessor in the Municipality of Rossiglione; since September 2024, she has been the Vice President of the Union of Municipalities of Stura Orba and Leira; from July 2015 to July 2024, she served as President of the Union of Municipalities of Stura Orba and Leira. In October 2024, she was elected Regional Councillor in the XII Legislature in the Genoa constituency, with the list “Democratic Party-Orlando President,” receiving 7,641 votes.
Federico Romeo
Born in Genoa on April 18, 1992, he resides in Genoa. He earned a Master’s Degree in Law with a score of 110 with honors, focusing his research thesis on Administrative Law at the University of Genoa, School of Social Sciences. Since February 2021, he has been employed at a financial institution. He has served as the President of the Valpolcevera District since 2017. From 2012 to 2017, he was a Municipal Councilor and Chairman of the Municipal Commission for the Valpolcevera District in the Genoa Municipality. In October 2024, he was elected as a Regional Councilor for the twelfth legislature in the Genoa constituency, representing the “Democratic Party-Orlando President” list, receiving 6,181 votes.
Armando Sanna
Born in Genoa on November 7, 1981, he has been employed at Santagata 1907 Spa since 2000 as a Sales Manager, responsible for sales planning. In 2009, he joined the municipal administration of Sant’Olcese as a municipal councilor with a sports portfolio. In 2014, he was elected Mayor of Sant’Olcese. In 2019, he was re-elected with an impressive 92.24% of the vote. He began practicing athletics, specifically running, at the age of 11, achieving notable successes at both regional and national levels, along with personal records. In January 2009, he was awarded the Sporting Knighthood for being a “Champion Long-Distance Runner who has always engaged ethically with activities for both youth and the elderly.” Since 2004, he has served as the President of the Sant’Olcese Municipal Sports Group. Elected to the Regional Council in 2020, he served as Vice President of the Regional Council and participated in the I, III, and IV Commissions. Since 2021, he has also been the President of the Sant’Olcese Municipal Council. He was re-elected as a Regional Councilor for the XII Legislature in the Genoa district with the “Democratic Party-Orlando President” list, receiving 8,041 votes.
Marco Scajola
Born in Imperia on April 24, 1970, he is married and has three children. A psychologist, psychotherapist, and specialist in general and clinical psychology, he works as a freelancer. He is listed among the experts of the Imperia Court. Elected as a Councilor of Imperia in 1999, he served as the group leader; re-elected in 2004, he became an Assessor with responsibilities for Events, Tourism, and Sports, including sports facilities and maintenance, communication, and relations with entities and associations. Reaffirmed in the Imperia City Council in 2009, he was appointed Deputy Mayor with responsibilities for Tourism, Events, Culture, Sports, communication, and relations with entities and associations. Elected to the Ligurian Region for the first time in 2010, he served as Vice President of the VIII Commission and Deputy Group Leader. In 2015, he was re-elected as a regional councilor and appointed as Assessor for Urban Planning, Territorial Planning, VAS, State Property, Landscape Protection, Extractive Activities, Housing Policies, and Building, relations with cross-border workers. Re-elected for a third time as a regional councilor in September 2020, he was appointed Assessor for relations with the regional council, urban planning, territorial planning, maritime state property, landscape protection, housing policies and building, extractive activities, training, orientation, and Community Programs of competence. In October 2024, he was re-elected for the fourth time as a regional councilor in the XII Legislature in the Imperia district with the “Forza Italia Berlusconi-Bucci President” list, receiving 6308 preferences, making him the most voted candidate in the center-right ranks.
Walter Sorriento
Born on August 12, 1977, he holds a diploma as a commercial expert-accountant and has completed a specialization diploma for security services. He also attended advanced university courses in police services. From June 2018 to May 2023, he served as a city councilor in the Municipality of Bordighera. Since May 2023, he has been an Assessor at the Municipality of Bordighera, focusing on healthcare, maintenance and urban decor, sports, and legal affairs. In October 2024, he was elected Regional Councilor in the XII Legislature for the Imperia constituency, representing the “Orgoglio Liguria-Bucci Presidente” list, securing 441 votes.
Angelo Vaccarezza
Born in Albenga on July 30, 1965, he resides in Loano. With a diploma in accounting, he has been registered as a publicist journalist and a financial promoter. From 1988 to 2001, he served in the municipal administration of Loano, holding positions as a councilor, assessor, and deputy mayor. In 2001, he was elected mayor of Loano, a role he held until 2011. Between 1990 and 1997, he was a provincial councilor, and in 2009, he became president of the Province of Savona, completing his term in October 2014. Following his presidency, he worked in Brussels at the European Parliament, as a delegate for the implementation of the Bolkestein directive. From 2012 to 2014, he was also the deputy vice president of the Union of Italian Provinces. Between 2010 and 2014, he served as a special delegate for tourism on the board of Arco Latino, an association of second-level local administrations in the Western Mediterranean arc: Italy, France, and Spain. In 2007, he was the last provincial coordinator of Forza Italia, which later became PdL. He retained his position in the People of Freedom until 2009, when he was elected president of the province. He has also been a national councilor of ANCI and vice president of CAL Liguria. He served as a Regional Councilor from 2015 to 2020, during which he chaired the First Commission for Budget and General Affairs. He was re-elected as a regional councilor in 2020. In October 2024, he was re-elected for the third time as a regional councilor in the XII Legislature for the Savona constituency with the list “Forza Italia Berlusconi-Bucci President,” receiving 2,325 preferences. On November 26, 2024, he was elected Secretary Councilor of the presidency office of the Regional Council-Legislative Assembly of Liguria.
PRESIDENTS OF THE LIGURIA REGIONAL COUNCIL 1970-2024
| Enrico Ghio | Democrazia cristiana | July –September 1970 |
| Paolo Macchiavelli | Partito socialista italiano | September 1970-July 1975 |
| Paolo Macchiavelli | Partito socialista italiano | July 1975-May 1976 |
| Angelo Landi | Partito socialista italiano | May 1976-July 1980 |
| Angelo Landi | Partito socialista italiano | July -November 1980 |
| Armando Magliotto | Partito comunista italiano | November 1980-September 1981 |
| Fausto Cuocolo | Democrazia cristiana | September 1981-June 1985 |
| Fausto Cuocolo | Democrazia cristiana | June -November 1985 |
| Luciano Verda | Democrazia cristiana | November 1985-June 1990 |
| Rosavio Bellasio | Democrazia cristiana | June -September 1990 |
| Giovanni Persico | Partito repubblicano italiano | September 1990-May 1995 |
| Giuliano Gallanti | Partito democratico della sinistra | May 1995-January 1997 |
| Fulvio Cerofolini | Partito democratico della sinistra | January 1997-May 2000 |
| Vincenzo Gianni Plinio | Alleanza nazionale | May 2000-August 2002 |
| Francesco Bruzzone | Lega Nord | August 2002-May 2005 |
| Giacomo Ronzitti | Unione a sinistra | May 2005-May 2010 |
| Rosario Monteleone | Unione di centro | May 2010-November 2013 |
| Michele Boffa | Partito democratico | November 2013-June 2015 |
| Francesco Bruzzone | Lega Nord Liguria-Salvini | July 2015-March 2018 |
| Alessandro Piana | Lega Nord Liguria-Salvini | March 2018-October 2020 |
| Gianmarco Medusei | Lega Nord Liguria-Salvini | October2020-November2024 |
| Stefano Balleari | Giorgia Meloni per Bucci presidente-Fratelli d’Italia | November 2024- |