The editorial board’s statement

Matteo Salvini barred journalists from entering the Lega (League)’s conference hall and, in his speech from the stage, repeatedly attacked the correspondents from *Repubblica* and *Corriere della Sera*, calling them “servants”. In doing so, he not only prevented our colleagues from carrying out their work but also violated the sacred right of the press to inform the public and the public’s right to be informed about what happens in the corridors of power. The editorial board of *Repubblica* expressed its solidarity with the reporters and its outrage at the actions and words of the Lega leader. It reminded Salvini that *Repubblica*’s journalism would never bow to intimidation by those in power or to crude attempts to silence those who report on them.