Vlada povečuje svoje gibanje, da bi legislativi dala vsebino z proračunom, dekretom o stanovanjih in protivojno zakonodajo

The Spanish government has intensified its efforts to provide substance to the remaining months of the current legislative term, launching a series of initiatives aimed at both economic policy and housing reform. This comes amid growing speculation about potential early elections, though such discussions remain largely unconfirmed. The government's strategy appears to revolve around three main pillars: the preparation of the state budget, a comprehensive housing decree, and the broader political narrative surrounding the end of the legislature.

In recent weeks, the administration has sought to regain momentum after facing criticism over internal scandals involving former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero and other high-profile figures. The government’s attempt to restore its political standing was evident during a meeting of the Council of Ministers, where several proposals were put forward. These included the presentation of new macroeconomic forecasts, which predict a growth rate of 2.6% for the year, slightly higher than previously anticipated. This forecast marks the beginning of the complex process required to draft and approve the annual budget, which involves negotiations with regional governments represented in the Council of Fiscal and Financial Policy.

This council, dominated by opposition parties including the Popular Party (PP), Vox, and Junts, will play a crucial role in determining the spending ceiling and deficit trajectory. The upcoming discussions are expected to spark significant debate between left-wing and right-wing factions, particularly as the approval of the deficit path in both the Congress of Deputies and the Senate could face rejection from these groups. According to government sources, the aim is to have the budget ready for submission to the Congress before the end of September, although past experiences suggest this deadline might be extended due to the complexity of negotiations.

Despite these efforts, the government faces considerable challenges in securing support for its proposed measures. At least two key groups, Junts and Podemos, have openly stated their belief that the current legislative period is effectively over and that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez should consider calling early elections. Junts has even called on Sánchez to resign and allow their party to select a new president, a scenario that seems unlikely given the internal cohesion within the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE).

In addition to the budgetary challenge, the government also aims to address the housing crisis through a broad decree that includes provisions for extending existing rental contracts to prevent uncontrolled rent increases. This measure, considered a flagship policy by the coalition partner Sumar, had been previously rejected by Junts but is now being reintroduced as part of a larger package designed to appeal to both leftist and nationalist interests. The government hopes this approach will help build a majority consensus necessary for passing the legislation.

Meanwhile, the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV) has reiterated its concerns regarding the length of the current legislative term, urging Sánchez to move beyond the deadlock and submit the 2027 budget proposal. The PNV leader, Iñigo Urkullu, emphasized the need for the government to act decisively, warning that the situation is becoming increasingly critical. The PNV has also expressed interest in coordinating with Sánchez on the timing of potential early elections, aiming to avoid overlap with municipal elections scheduled for 2027. This coordination reflects the strategic alliance between the PNV and the PSOE, despite recent tensions and criticisms from the PNV regarding alleged corruption within the socialist party.

The relationship between the PNV and the PSOE remains complex, shaped by mutual interests in maintaining stability in the Basque Country and Navarre. While the PNV seeks to influence the timing of any potential early elections to align with its political goals, the PSOE appears willing to accommodate these considerations, albeit cautiously. The recent meetings between PNV leaders and PSOE officials indicate a willingness to find common ground, even as both sides navigate the delicate balance of power and responsibility in shaping Spain’s future.