European Elections: Conservative Popular Party Leads Poll in Spain
The conservative Popular Party (PP) would emerge as the most voted option in the European elections in Spain, set to secure between 21 and 23 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), according to Sigma Dos survey data for public television RTVE and regional network FORTA. The PSOE, Spain's Socialist Workers' Party, would obtain between 20 and 22 MEPs, creating a possibility of a tie with PP. The survey, made public at the close of polling stations, indicates that the final difference in seats between PP and PSOE will remain uncertain until the last moment.
According to the survey, PP is projected to gain 32.4% of the votes, while PSOE is expected to receive 30.2%. The far-right party Vox would be the third most voted with 10.4%, potentially obtaining between 6 and 7 MEPs. In fourth place, the left-wing Sumar platform, with 6.3% of votes, could secure 3 or 4 seats, followed by Podemos with 4.4%, likely to win 2 or 3 representatives.
Other notable parties include Ahora Repúblicas, which could obtain 2 or 3 MEPs with 4.3% of votes, and Se Acabó la Fiesta, possibly securing 2 or 3 seats. Former Catalan president Carles Puigdemont's pro-independence Junts might secure one MEP with 2.1% of votes. The CEUS, a coalition of Basque Nationalist Party and Canary Coalition, is also projected to gain one MEP with 1.6% of votes. The liberal party Ciudadanos, with 1% of votes, would not achieve any representation.
Throughout Spain, voter turnout was notably high, reaching 38.35 percent two hours before the closing of polling stations, marking the highest participation in a European Parliament vote not coinciding with local or regional elections. This and other factors indicate an anticipated increase in ultra-conservative and far-right forces in the new Eurochamber.
Main Concerns of Spanish Voters
Spanish voters, guided by the upcoming priority issues highlighted in various barometers, have shown a keen interest in the economy, employment, social protection, and the rule of law. With over 38 million citizens called to polls by Spain's National Institute of Statistics (INE), the outcomes of this election will significantly impact the country's representation in the European Union. The election process operates on a closed list system, meaning voters select their preferred party without modifying candidate order.
Political parties have tailored their campaigns to address these concerns. Center-left and left-wing parties like PSOE and Sumar encouraged support to prevent a conservative ascendancy. PSOE focused on fostering a 'social, feminist, and Green' Europe, emphasizing climate change and social equity. Sumar prioritizes reformation of the Migration and Asylum Pact and European economic governance.
On the flip side, center-right PP and far-right Vox targeted their strategies on mobilizing voters against recent legislative changes and augmenting economic competitiveness. PP denounced the Amnesty Law and pledged to continue this stance in European institutions. Vox focused on repealing the European Green Deal and tightening immigration policies.
- Polling data suggests a diverse range of political ideologies will shape the composition of Spain's representation in the European Parliament. This ebb and flow of political leanings underscore the nuanced dynamics in voter preferences and party strategies, particularly concerning critical social, economic, and environmental policies.
- The high voter turnout reflects a robust engagement and consequential decision-making by the electorate, evidencing a substantial societal investment in the future direction of European political and socio-economic discourse.
