Sánchez Calls Snap Election After Housing Defeat

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called a snap general election for November 29 after parliament rejected his government’s housing measures amid anger over soaring rents and home prices. The defeat followed demonstrations in Madrid and about 50 other cities demanding affordable housing, and exposed the fragility of Sánchez’s minority coalition, which relies on support from other parties, including Catalan separatists. Sánchez is seeking a stronger mandate and hopes housing will mobilize progressive voters, while opponents argue the proposals could worsen housing supply and affordability. His campaign also faces corruption investigations involving people close to him, criticism over the migration crisis in Ceuta, and polls showing gains for the conservative Popular Party and far-right Vox. The election will determine whether Sánchez can rebuild a governing majority or the right can take power.