Spanish PM faces fresh blow in key Andalusia vote
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's Socialist party faces another electoral setback as Andalusia holds a key regional vote, seen as a precursor to the 2027 national election. Corruption scandals involving his inner circle have weakened his domestic support, despite his higher international profile. The conservative Popular Party is favored to win, potentially relying on far-right Vox to form a government.
- ▪The Andalusian regional election is significant due to the region's size and decentralized powers in health, education, and housing.
- ▪Polls suggest the conservative Popular Party will defeat the Socialists in their historic stronghold of Andalusia.
- ▪The far-right Vox party could become a kingmaker if the Popular Party fails to secure a majority, similar to recent outcomes in other Spanish regions.
- ▪Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's popularity has been damaged by corruption investigations involving his family and allies.
- ▪The Popular Party has not ruled out national-level cooperation with Vox following the expected 2027 general election.
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Spanish PM faces fresh blow in key Andalusia voteSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxSpain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez delivers a speech during a campaign rally ahead of the Andalusian regional elections, in Seville, Spain, on May 15. PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 17, 2026, 04:19 PMUpdated May 17, 2026, 04:19 PMSEVILLE, Spain - Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s Socialists appeared headed for another setback as a key regional election in Andalusia began on May 17, a possible dress rehearsal for the national vote in 2027.Corruption investigations into his family and former top political allies have eroded Mr Sanchez’s popularity at home, even as clashes with US President Donald Trump and Israel increase his standing abroad.Regions wield wide-ranging powers in…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.