Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez Calls Snap Election for Late November

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced on Monday that he will dissolve parliament and hold early general elections on Nov. 29. The move follows the defeat of key housing legislation in the lower house three days earlier.

In a televised speech, Sanchez stated that he wants voters to deliver a larger progressive majority in parliament. He said the country faces complex changes and argued that citizens must choose between his progressive coalition and right-wing parties. He added that his government accepts its mistakes but wants voters to decide Spain's direction.

The announcement came after the minority government failed to pass two emergency decrees aimed at housing affordability. The proposals included a ban on evictions until 2030 and regulations covering room rentals and short-term lettings. The conservative People's Party, the far-right Vox party, and the Catalan pro-independence party Junts joined together to reject the decrees.

Housing costs have prompted demonstrations across Spain in recent weeks. Protests gained momentum following the eviction of an 87-year-old resident from her long-term Madrid home. Sanchez had previously insisted he would complete his mandate through 2027, but the legislative defeat underscored his coalition's dependence on unstable alliances.

Sanchez has served as prime minister since 2018 and formed a new minority government following the 2023 elections. His administration has expanded social programs, adjusted migration policies, and supported green transition initiatives. However, his administration has struggled to secure majorities without backing from regional parties.

Recent opinion surveys show the People's Party leading the governing Socialists in voter support. The polls suggest the conservatives could potentially form a government if they partner with Vox.

Parliament will formally dissolve ahead of the official campaign period leading to the nationwide vote on Nov. 29.