MADRID (AP) — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced early elections set for November 29 after facing a significant legislative defeat concerning emergency measures to address the country’s housing crisis. Last week, the Spanish government failed to secure support for crucial decrees aimed at preventing evictions and curbing real estate speculation.
Recent protests across Spain have highlighted public discontent over housing affordability, intensified by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid. Opposition parties have thwarted government efforts, leading Sánchez to propose advancing the national election schedule, initially slated for next year.
In a televised address, Sánchez emphasized the need for a broader progressive coalition in Parliament to confront Spain’s major challenges. “The time has come for the Spanish people to decide on your future and the future of your country,” he stated.
Sánchez, aged 54, has held the office of Prime Minister since 2018, establishing himself as a prominent figure among Europe’s progressive leaders. He advocates for migration and engages in diplomatic dialogues supporting the Palestinians while critiquing the American and Israeli stance on Iran. Under his leadership, Spain has witnessed one of the fastest-growing economies among developed nations in recent years.
Domestically, Sánchez faces legal issues involving his Socialist party and personal accusations against his wife and brother, although both have denied wrongdoing. Furthermore, he manages the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Spain’s North African territory of Ceuta, following a massive border crossing by predominantly Moroccan nationals over the summer.
Since 2023, Sánchez’s coalition minority government, in partnership with the left-wing junior party Sumar, has struggled with legislative limitations due to dependency on smaller parties. Despite challenges, Sánchez has been known for his political acumen, often succeeding in elections when odds seem unfavorable. He prepares to contest against the conservative Popular Party, which currently holds the majority of parliamentary seats.
The Cabinet’s approval is necessary for the formal dissolution of Parliament, with Sánchez having scheduled a Cabinet meeting for later Monday.