Spain's prime minister set an early election for 29 November after parliament rejected housing decrees. He said he needs a broader progressive majority to pass reforms.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called an early general election for 29 November after his minority government lost two parliamentary votes on housing measures.
The BBC reported that speculation built over the weekend after parliament rejected two decree laws meant to protect tenants. The eviction of an 87-year-old woman who could not afford a sharp rent rise had sparked nationwide protests and added pressure for housing reform.
In a televised address on Monday, Sanchez said he needed a broader progressive majority that can overcome the resistance of the elites if reforms are to pass. He has been prime minister since June 2018, and his Socialists finished second in the 2023 election. Spain was not due to hold a general election until the summer of 2027 at the latest.
Housing is not the only strain. The BBC noted corruption cases around his party and pressure on the cost of living and immigration. The Guardian's Europe live blog also led with the election call and the housing votes.
The 29 November date is the next formal step. Candidate lists and coalition arithmetic were not settled in Monday's announcement.