Spain’s Sanchez calls snap election after housing protests

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Monday that he is calling an early election for November 29, in response to ongoing protests over housing costs. His minority government has been facing a series of challenges, including deadly floods, a migration crisis, and nationwide demonstrations. The situation escalated after an 87-year-old woman with a disability was evicted from her apartment, leading to widespread outrage.

The government attempted to address the housing crisis with an emergency package of measures, but these initiatives failed to gain enough support in parliament. Sanchez addressed the nation, urging Spaniards to decide on their future and role in the country's future. According to recent polls, the center-right People's Party (PP) and the radical-right Vox led in support, with 33.9% and 18% respectively.

Sanchez's Socialists garnered 25.7% support. Despite Spain's strong economic performance, with the fastest growth among Europe's major economies and low unemployment, the lack of parliamentary support for Sanchez's government contrasts with the country's economic success.