Mariló Montero: "I boast a lot of the flag of Spain, I carry it between my teeth, but do not confuse me with one of Vox"

Mariló Montero, a well-known Spanish television presenter and commentator, has made headlines with her recent remarks expressing pride in Spain’s flag while clarifying her stance against being associated with the far-right political party Vox. Speaking in a candid tone during an interview, she stated, “I take great pride in the flag of Spain, I carry it between my teeth, but don’t confuse me with one of Vox.” The statement came amid broader discussions around national identity and political polarization in Spain. The conversation took place during an interview that was initially framed as a discussion rather than a formal debate. Montero, known for her sharp wit and direct manner, emphasized the need for more measured dialogue in public discourse. She expressed frustration over the increasing tension in political conversations, suggesting that such hostility could lead to a breakdown in civil discourse. “It’s not recommended to have debates in the middle of shouting,” she remarked, arguing that constructive dialogue requires listening to opposing viewpoints. Montero, born in Estella in 1965, has built a career spanning decades in media, transitioning from a local figure to a prominent voice in national politics. Her comments reflect a lifelong engagement with issues of identity, family, and societal values. In the interview, she spoke about how her upbringing in Estella shaped her views on political activism and community life. She described growing up in an environment where political demonstrations were common, often involving police presence and even playful protests using rubber balls. Despite these experiences, she noted that her family always found ways to protect itself, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. She also touched upon the role of family in shaping political perspectives. Montero mentioned that her household rarely discussed politics directly, preferring instead to focus on personal matters such as raising children and maintaining close-knit relationships. This approach contrasts with the more contentious political climate she observes in other parts of Spain, particularly in Catalonia, where political differences can strain familial bonds. “We don’t talk about politics because it can exhaust the conversation,” she explained, highlighting the importance of emotional connection over ideological confrontation. In addressing the current state of Spanish politics, Montero voiced concerns about the erosion of institutional stability. She suggested that the country is witnessing a slow but steady undermining of democratic norms, which she attributes to a creeping authoritarianism. “This is a form of progress,” she said, referring to the gradual dismantling of institutions without overt violence. She pointed to corruption scandals and the weakening of state authority as signs of this trend, warning that it could ultimately lead to a collapse of the system. Her critique extended to the political left, noting that even some remaining socialist leaders appear complicit in the decline of democratic governance. “There is a sense that the state is being taken hostage,” she observed, citing ongoing cases of active corruption as evidence. While she acknowledged the complexity of the situation, she stressed that the path forward must involve greater respect for diverse ideologies and a return to calm, reasoned debate. Montero concluded her remarks by reflecting on the deeper motivations behind her statements. She emphasized that her passion for Spain’s heritage and its people drives her advocacy for measured political discourse. “I am not loud in my speech,” she said, “but I am fierce in my convictions.” Her words underscored a commitment to preserving the nation’s cultural and historical roots while resisting the divisive forces threatening to fracture its unity.