Before revision: On the `semantic ' side, instead, the networks of hashtags are characterized by a mesoscale structure which appears to be core-periphery - a seemingly recurrent pattern that is present also in the semantic networks characterizing the online debate in the run up of the 2018 Italian elections .
After revision: On the `semantic ' side, instead, the networks of hashtags are characterized by a mesoscale structure which appears to be core-periphery fashion, across the entire observation period. Taken altogether, our results point at different, yet overlapping, trajectories of conflict played out using migration issues as a backdrop. A first line opposes communities discussing substantively of migration to communities approaching this issue just to fuel hostility against political opponents; within the second line, a mechanism of distancing between partisan communities reflects shifting political alliances within the governmental coalition. Ultimately, our results contribute to shed light on the complexity of the Italian political context characterized by multiple poles of partisan alignment .