Giorgia Meloni, the leader of Italy's right-wing party, has expressed her support for comedian Pucci following his departure from the Sanremo music festival amid controversy. Meloni argues that the criticism surrounding Pucci reflects an illiberal drift in the political left, which she believes is stifling free expression and creativity. The comments reveal a clear alignment among right-wing politicians in Italy, who are rallying behind Pucci against what they perceive as unjust attacks from their left-wing counterparts.

In a gesture of solidarity, Ignazio La Russa, a prominent member of Meloni's party, reached out to Pucci via phone, urging him to reconsider his decision to withdraw from the prestigious festival. This situation exemplifies the ongoing tensions between the political right and left in Italy, where comedic expression has turned into a battleground for broader ideological conflicts. The issue is not solely about Pucci's performance but speaks to the cultural and political climate under which artists operate in Italy today.

Former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi's response to the controversy has been pointed; he criticized Meloni for diverting attention from more pressing issues such as taxation and the economy. Renzi's remarks highlight the ongoing challenge for Italian politicians to balance cultural discussions with tangible policy concerns, a balance that is increasingly difficult in an era characterized by partisan rhetoric and polarization.