The Diminishing Threat of Right-Wing Spain: An Analysis of the Inconclusive Election

Political Gridlock in Spain: A Victory for the Left

Overview

Spain‘s recent general election has resulted in a political gridlock and the possibility of a new election. However, there is one result that will be welcomed across Europe: the far-right party, Vox, was thwarted in its attempt to gain power. This election marked the first time since Francisco Franco’s dictatorship that the far right was denied a share of power in Spain. While the mainstream conservative Popular Party won the election, it fell short of expectations and performed below polling data. Meanwhile, the Socialist Party led by Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, although finishing second, celebrated the outcome as a victory.

Potential Gridlock and Uncertainty

The divided results of the election have placed a question mark over Spain‘s future leadership and the possibility of horse-trading among political parties in the coming weeks. The smaller regional parties could play a crucial role in forming a government, potentially demanding concessions in exchange for their support. Dr. Jason Xidias, a lecturer in Political Science, anticipates that this process will be “very complicated.”

The Popular Party’s Claim to Form a Government

The Popular Party, despite winning the election, fell seven seats short of a majority. Nonetheless, the party’s deputy secretary, Miguel Tellado, asserted that it should not be denied its opportunity to form a government, arguing that it would be incomprehensible if other parties prevented the winner of the election from assuming power. This statement sets the stage for further negotiations and political maneuvering in the coming months.

The Challenges for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who put together Spain‘s first-ever coalition government in January 2020, faces significant challenges in securing the support of the 176 lawmakers needed for an absolute majority. The divided results make the Catalan separatist party, Junts, crucial in Sánchez’s efforts to form a government. However, if Junts demands a referendum on independence for Catalonia, it would likely be a costly price for Sánchez to pay.