Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for early elections on November 29 amid mounting public anger over the housing crisis. The decision comes after his government's housing measures were rejected in parliament, weakening his minority government.
Sanchez's move follows a defeat in parliament over housing measures and a defeat in an attempt to stem nationwide protests. The Socialist leader faces a tough campaign with his government weakened, as opinion polls show his party trailing.
The election could result in a far-right government with the conservative People's Party and Vox, marking the first time a far-right party has entered central government since democracy was restored after Franco's death. Sanchez's government has faced challenges, including corruption allegations and failed legislation, but he has maintained power through fragile coalitions.
Sanchez's housing measures provided a chance to position himself as a left-leaning leader, but his government's inability to pass a budget since 2023 and ongoing corruption scandals remain unresolved.