How do you vote on the ballot? The question does not concern only the voters of Rome, Turin and Trieste. In all, there are 65 Italian Municipalities (including 10 provincial capitals) where the second round for the election of the mayor will be held on Sunday 17 and Monday 18 October. About five million Italians are called to the polls and the turnout could prove to be a decisive factor, above all considering the high level of abstention registered in the first round. Two weeks ago, in fact, only 54,69% of those entitled went to vote: a new negative record (so far, since 2010 the worst figure had been in 2017, with 60,07%).
1) WHAT ARE THE OPENING HOURS OF THE Polling Stations?
In the Regions with ordinary statute, polling stations will be open on Sunday 17 October from 7 to 23 and on Monday 18 October from 7 to 15.
However, the situation changes for the Regions with special statutes and for the autonomous provinces. In Sicily (Canicattì, Favara, Porto Empedocle, San Cataldo, Adrano, Vittoria, Lentini, Rosolini) and Sardinia (Capoterra) the ballot round will be held on Sunday 24 and Monday 25 October, while in Trentino-Alto Adige (Merano and Brentonico) the date is only one, October 24th. Hours are always the same: from 7 to 23 on Sunday and from 7 to 15 on Monday.
2) IN WHICH CITY LOCATIONS DO YOU VOTE?
In addition to Rome, Turin and Trieste, the provincial capitals where the ballot is held to elect the mayor are Varese, Savona, Latina, Benevento, Caserta, Isernia and Cosenza.
A Milan, Bologna and Naples, however, the centre-left candidates won in the first round.
3) WHAT DOCUMENTS DO I NEED TO VOTE?
A valid identity document (passport or identity card) and your electoral card.
4) HOW DO YOU VOTE IN THE BALLOT?
Compared to the first round, there will be less chaos (especially in Rome, where the number of lists was stellar). The electoral ballot will contain only the names of the two candidates who arrived on the ballot, each with their own linked lists. To vote, just trace a mark on the rectangle with the name of the chosen mayoral candidate written with a copying pencil.
Separate voting is not permitted, ie it is not possible to vote for a candidate for the office of mayor and for a list not connected to him.
5) WHAT ARE THE ANTI-COVID MEASURES?
Voters are required not to go to vote in case of flu symptoms or temperatures above 37,5 degrees. It is mandatory to wear a mask, sanitize your hands and be careful to avoid gatherings in polling stations. During the voting operations, there will be periodic cleaning of the premises and disinfection of the contact surfaces, including tables, voting booths and toilets.
For further clarification consult the FAQ on the website of the Ministry of the Interior.
