Information use by regional politicians: functions, timing and role-related differences

Purpose This study aims to provide an empirical analysis of the use of information by Italian regional politicians, examining the functions and timing of information use while highlighting role-based differences. Design/methodology/approach Forty interviews of regional politicians, including members of regional cabinets and councils from both majority and opposition parties, were conducted and analyzed through a thematic analysis. Findings The study identified distinct patterns: all politicians use information with purposeful and legitimation functions, yet only councilors, primarily those in opposition, use it for delegitimation and blaming. While majority councilors and cabinet members concentrate their information use in specific periods of the year, opposition councilors tend to use information continuously throughout the year. Originality/value The study contributes to the literature by offering a comprehensive framework of the different functions and timings of information use according to politicians’ roles within Italian regional governments.