Spain Calls Early Election as Housing Crisis Fuels Nationwide Protests
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called an early election for November 29 after parliament rejected key housing measures amid growing protests over affordability.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called an early general election for November 29 after his minority government suffered a parliamentary defeat over emergency housing measures. The decision comes after weeks of protests over rising housing costs, rents and evictions across the country.
Parliament rejected two government housing decrees last week. The measures were aimed at addressing issues including evictions and housing speculation, but opposition parties and the Catalan party Junts opposed them.
Sánchez said the election was needed to seek stronger public support and a broader progressive majority in parliament. His government has struggled to pass legislation because it relies on support from several smaller parties.
The housing crisis has become a major political issue, with tens of thousands of people taking part in demonstrations across Spain on October 3. In Madrid alone, around 70,000 protesters reportedly gathered.
The election also comes as Sánchez's Socialist Party faces a challenging political environment, while the conservative People's Party and Vox are seeking greater influence.
For Sánchez, the November 29 vote will determine whether voters give his government a stronger mandate—or force another change in Spain's political balance.
