MADRID – Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called an early election for Nov. 29, following a damaging parliamentary defeat over emergency measures aimed at addressing the country’s housing crisis.
The snap vote will take place next year, months ahead of the national election originally expected.
Pressure on the government has intensified in recent weeks as Spaniards have taken to the streets in cities across the country, demanding action on housing affordability. Public anger grew after the televised eviction last month of an 87-year-old woman in Madrid.
Right-wing opposition parties joined forces in Parliament to defeat two emergency decrees containing measures to limit evictions and curb real estate speculation. The setback fueled speculation that Sánchez might bring the national election forward.
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In a televised address, Sánchez said a broader progressive majority in Parliament would give Spain a stronger chance of confronting the country’s most pressing challenges.
“The time has come, therefore, for the Spanish people to decide what future you want for yourselves and for your country,” Sánchez said.
Sánchez, 54, has served as Spain’s prime minister since 2018, making him one of Europe’s longest-serving national leaders.
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