On Sunday in Cáceres, a campaign rally was held where Pedro Sánchez, head of the government and the Socialist Party, publicly endorsed PSOE’s candidate for the regional elections in Extremadura, Miguel Ángel Gallardo. This marked Sánchez’s third visit to the region in recent weeks, highlighting the importance of the campaign for the Socialists amid challenging circumstances.
The event took place at the San Francisco cultural complex, gathering party supporters and local activists. In the wake of recent scandals involving allegations of sexual harassment and corruption within the PSOE, the atmosphere was tense. Sánchez did not shy away from the tough issues, openly acknowledging that the party had made serious mistakes.
“Governing a country is worth it, even when you have to do it under such conditions,” Sánchez stated. He noted that everyone makes mistakes but stressed that corruption is a betrayal of the party’s principles. According to him, Socialists always act decisively when faced with such situations, unlike the opposition, which, in Sánchez’s view, prefers to turn a blind eye to problems.
Political accusations
Sánchez also addressed the leader of the Partido Popular (PP), Alberto Núñez Feijóo, who has been actively calling for new elections in recent times. The Prime Minister expressed his surprise at Feijóo’s constant demands for a vote, reminding everyone that Feijóo already had the chance to lead the country but did not take it. Sánchez added that neither he nor Feijóo wishes to see the other as Prime Minister.
In his speech, Sánchez also commented on the statements made by the president of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, Luis Argüello García, who suggested considering options such as early elections or a vote of no confidence. Sánchez noted that such remarks are made only when the Socialists are in power and reminded that the Church should not interfere in politics. According to him, respecting election results is the only path for democracy.
Gallardo’s response
Miguel Ángel Gallardo, speaking to those gathered, did not hide his disappointment over recent events within the party. He admitted that it had been a tough week and brought considerable shame to all members of the PSOE. However, he stressed that situations like this demonstrate the party’s commitment to the principles of equality and feminism, tolerating neither violence nor humiliation.
Gallardo sharply criticized those he believes are unworthy of being called socialists, stressing that the party will not tolerate abusers or anyone who violates its values. He also accused the current regional president and PP candidate María Guardiola of avoiding open debates and preferring to act behind the scenes, following directions from Madrid.
Criticism of the opposition
During his speech, Gallardo highlighted the close ties between the PP and the far-right Vox party, noting that decisions within the People’s Party are influenced by both Feijóo and Vox leader Santiago Abascal. In his view, this shows a dependence of regional politicians on central figures and a lack of autonomy in decision-making.
At the end of the meeting, the secretary of the local PSOE branch in Cáceres, Belén Fernández, took the floor and expressed confidence that the party will overcome any difficulties and maintain voters’ trust. The rally was part of the socialists’ active election campaign, marked by numerous meetings across Extremadura in recent weeks.
Sánchez’s third visit
This is Sánchez’s third visit to the region in a short time. Previously, he attended events in Mérida and Plasencia, also supporting his party’s candidates. The PSOE leader’s active presence in Extremadura is explained by the high level of competition in the upcoming elections and the need to mobilize supporters amid scandals that could affect the voting outcome.
This time, the Socialists have focused on openness and direct dialogue with voters, openly addressing difficult topics. The party still has several important meetings ahead, which could be decisive for the future of the regional branch of PSOE.
