Spain’s Sánchez calls snap election amid protests over housing crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced a snap election for November 29, following his minority government's decisive loss in a parliamentary vote on two decrees intended to address Spain's housing crisis. The announcement came during a live television address on Monday, in the wake of escalating protests over the issue.

In his speech, Sánchez emphasized the need for a broader majority in parliament to continue his government's work. He warned that Spain must choose between joining a far-right movement or maintaining its reputation as a bastion of social justice. Sánchez's minority coalition, comprising his Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) and the left-wing Sumar alliance, has been without a parliamentary majority for nearly a year.

This situation arose after the conservative Catalan separatist party Junts per Catalunya, led by Carles Puigdemont, joined the opposition.

Since then, Sánchez has faced significant challenges in getting legislation passed through parliament. The last regular budget was approved in 2023 due to a lack of majorities. A regular election was scheduled for the middle of next year. However, Sánchez's decision to call a snap election is a risky move, carrying potential consequences.