On that occasion Rosy Bindi was elected president of the party (with Marina Sereni and Ivan Scalfarotto vice-presidents), while Enrico Letta and Antonio Misiani were nominated deputy-secretary and treasurer, respectively.

[23] Mario Adinolfi, a former Christian Democrat, journalist and blogger who ran also in 2007 (gaining a mere 0.2%), announced his candidacy on 30 June, proposing "direct democracy" and a "radical renewal",[24] but finally withdrew in favour of Franceschini.

Beppe Grillo, popular comedian and blogger, announced his bid on 12 July,[27] but its candidacy was rejected by the party's electoral commission.

[29] Another poll by IPR Marketing, published on 11 August, put Bersani largely ahead with 54%, Franceschini distant second with 35% and Marino third with 11%.

[32] Source: Democratic Party Electoral Commission On 25 October 2009 more than 3 million voters turned out to vote in an open primary.