On Sunday, June 21, Estremadura is holding a vote in early regional parliamentary elections. By 2:00 PM, turnout stood at 35.76%, which is almost 6% lower compared to the same time in 2023. These figures were announced at the press center in Mérida, where regional government officials are monitoring the voting process.
In the province of Badajoz, as of this hour, 35.52% of voters have cast their ballots—a decrease of 6.42% compared to last year. In Cáceres, turnout is at 36.16%, down 5.02% from the previous year. Despite lower participation, polling stations are operating normally, and the atmosphere remains calm.
Voting process
Nearly 891,000 residents of the region are eligible to vote today. The early elections were called after the parliament failed to pass the budget and the coalition supporting the government collapsed. President of Estremadura, María Guardiola, decided to hold new elections to give citizens the chance to determine the region’s future direction.
There are 1,400 polling stations open across the region, all of which began operating on time and without incident. According to officials, election commission staff, law enforcement, and other involved parties are ensuring order and the transparency of the voting process. Authorities are urging citizens not to postpone their visit to the polls and to exercise their right to vote by 8:00 PM.
Outlook and plans
Several official briefings are scheduled throughout the day to provide interim voter turnout data. The next update is expected at 18:15, and after the polls close, around 21:15–21:30, the first vote count results will begin to be published.
Organizers note that despite reduced activity, local residents remain interested in the elections and are determined to participate. Authorities expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the process and emphasized the importance of a calm and fair electoral campaign.
Reasons for low turnout
The decline in turnout compared to last year has been attributed to voter fatigue from frequent political changes and disappointment with the parliament’s performance. Some experts also point to the summer season and high temperatures as factors affecting voter activity. However, there are still several hours left before the polls close, and the situation could change.
Authorities continue to monitor the voting process and urge residents of Extremadura not to miss the chance to influence the region’s future. All necessary security and transparency measures are being observed to ensure every vote is counted.
