Italians throw PM Renzi out, and shock EU-Brussels

Italians have rejected constitutional changes, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and unsettling an already shaky E.U.

Sunday, December 4, 2016 6:27 PM EST

After months of ubiquitous, bitter and incessant campaigning, Italians voted on Sunday on key constitutional changes that have taken on broader significance as both a referendum on Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and a test of strength for anti-establishment forces in Europe.

In a continent that has for years seemed on the verge of financial crisis and political upheaval, Italy’s referendum on whether to streamline its baroque legislative process has become the latest flash point. Mr. Renzi has said he might resign if his reforms are rejected, a step that could provide yet another shock to an already unsteady European Union.

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