Italy votes in center-left primary amid recession

Monti has ruled out running for premier but has left the door open for a second term if no party wins a clear majority and he is tapped to head another government.

"I will reflect on all the possibilities — none excluded — in which I could possibly be able to contribute to the best interests of Italy and Europe," Monti said on a primetime talk show on RAI state television Sunday.

President Giorgio Napolitano made clear last week that Monti couldn't run for office heading a party ticket, since he's currently a senator-for-life. Newspaper analysts suggested Napolitano's aim in keeping Monti out of the campaign, on a potentially unelectable centrist ticket, was to ensure he remained a viable alternative for premier if neither of Italy's main parties wins a clear majority — or to be named his successor as president.

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