Spanish PM Pedro Sanchez calls snap November election as far-right looms and polling lags

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Monday that he will hold an early election on November 29. This move comes after his fragmented parliament rejected key housing decrees, which sparked widespread protests. In a televised address, Sanchez emphasized the need to regain public support and form a larger progressive majority in parliament to overcome opposition and continue Spain's social advancements.

He also acknowledged past mistakes and pledged to deliver on campaign promises. Sanchez's decision comes at a disadvantage, as his Socialist Party is trailing in opinion polls. However, the proposal to tackle a housing crisis has gained some support but was rejected by right-wing MPs, leading to planned protests. An election defeat would mark the end of Europe's last left-leaning government and allow a far-right coalition, led by the conservative People's Party and Vox, to take power for the first time since the return of democracy after Franco's dictatorship.

Despite facing fragmentation and scandals, Sanchez has successfully maintained power for three terms, implementing progressive policies and addressing key issues like unemployment and immigration.