SEVILLE – The PP caused a political earthquake in Andalucia in the municipal elections on May 28th. The party can claim a wave of victories in the eight Andalucian provincial capitals and major cities.
With 1.4 million votes (38%), the PP has taken the lead, with a margin of 180,000 votes over the PSOE (33.3%). At the PP, they are now celebrating the “Juanma effect”: the party has been doing exceptionally well since Juanma Moreno became the regional president. This effect has now extended to these local elections. Just like in the regional elections on June 19th last year, the PP has won in all provincial capitals except Jaén, where the situation is still uncertain.
Related post: Partido Popular emerges victorious in autonomous and local elections at the expense of PSOE
PSOE has grown by 31% of the votes
Despite this success, the PSOE’s general secretary, Juan Espadas, emphasised that Moreno has lost 11% of the votes, while the PSOE has grown by 31% compared to the results on June 19th. The socialists have won in a total of 46% of the municipalities in Andalucia, while the PP has done so in 37% of the municipalities. In the capital, Jaén, the PSOE obtained 11 seats, equal to the PP. Therefore, this means both parties may be able to reach an agreement with Jaén Merece Más, a regional party that has won three seats.
Absolute majority in these cities for the PP
The PP will govern with an absolute majority in five capitals, namely Málaga, Almería, Córdoba, Granada, and Cádiz. Whereas, in cities like Seville and Huelva, they can govern in a minority position without the support of Vox, or only for specific projects.
This overwhelming victory of the PP in Andalucia is seen as a triumph that paves the way for the possible arrival of Feijóo in Moncloa, the national government centre in Madrid.
Most notable turnaround
The most notable turnaround occurred in Seville, where the PP candidate and former mayor of Tomares, José Luis Sanz, defeated the socialist mayor Antonio Muñoz. Seville was a highly coveted spot in these elections as it is the largest city where both the PP and the PSOE have governed. Moreover, Seville is also a symbol of survival for the socialists. The campaign in Seville also received special attention from Pedro Sánchez.
Surprise in Cádiz
There was also a major surprise in Cádiz. The PP put an end to the rule of the socialist José María González, better known as Kichi, and won with an absolute majority. There has also been a notable shift from the socialists to the PP in Huelva.
Córdoba and Málaga
The PP retains control in Córdoba, where José María Bellido will continue his role as mayor for another four years. In Málaga, Francisco de la Torre, despite his 80 years of age, remains in power as mayor after leading the city for 23 years.
Granada
There was also a remarkable change in Granada, where Marifrán Carazo, former Secretary of Housing, won as the lead candidate. This term in Granada has not been without challenges, with political shifts and changes in coalitions. Nevertheless, the PP has managed to regain control of the city.
Almería
Almería remains under the leadership of the PP, with María del Mar Vázquez Agüero as mayor, who took over from Ramón Fernández-Pacheco.
Political map of Andalusia turns blue
Therefore, the victory of the PP in Andalucia has once again painted the political map of the region blue, making it the most chosen party in the area. Moreover, this victory will also have implications for the composition of the provincial councils.
The PP’s triumph in Andalucia is being hailed as a significant achievement, consolidating its position as a dominant political force in the region. With a strong showing in the provincial capitals and major cities, the PP has demonstrated its ability to connect with voters and secure their trust.
Sevilla
One of the most notable turnarounds occurred in Sevilla, where the PP candidate José Luis Sanz defeated the incumbent socialist mayor Antonio Muñoz. This victory is particularly significant as Sevilla is not only a symbol of political power but also a key battleground for the PP and the PSOE. Consequently, the PP’s success in Sevilla sends a clear message that their support base is expanding and resonating with the electorate.
Cádiz
In Cádiz, the PP put an end to the socialist rule of José María González, known as Kichi, and secured an absolute majority. This outcome demonstrates the PP’s ability to mobilise voters and achieve a decisive victory in a traditionally left-leaning stronghold.
Córdoba and Málaga
In terms of regional presence, the PP has also maintained control in Córdoba and Málaga, where José María Bellido and Francisco de la Torre will continue their respective mayoral roles. These victories highlight the party’s ability to maintain its strong foothold in these cities despite challenges and changing political landscapes.
Granada
The city of Granada witnessed an intriguing political shift, with Marifrán Carazo, a former Secretary of Housing, leading the PP to victory. The PP’s success in Granada represents a significant comeback after a challenging term, showcasing their ability to regain control and garner support from the electorate.
Almería
Furthermore, Almería remains firmly under the leadership of the PP, with María del Mar Vázquez Agüero assuming the role of mayor. This continuity ensures a stable governance structure in the city and reflects the trust placed in the PP by the residents.
Absolute majorities
Overall, the PP’s resounding success in Andalucia’s municipal elections showcases its growing influence and popularity in the region. The party’s ability to secure absolute majorities in multiple provincial capitals and major cities demonstrates their strong mandate and the support they have garnered from voters. As the PP takes charge, it is expected that their policies and agenda will shape the future of Andalucia’s local governance.
Related post: Left electoral debacle leads to early national elections in Spain
