Spain's Divisive Election: Culture Wars and Conservative Challenges

Spain is holding a general election with a stark left-right divide. Incumbent Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez of the Socialist Party hopes his government's social reforms and economic performance will secure his re-election, but he faces strong competition from conservative leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo of the People's Party. Feijóo may need support from the far-right Vox party to form a majority in parliament. The election is taking place during the summer, and issues such as pandemic management and economic growth have taken a backseat to criticism of Sánchez's reliance on separatist parties. The left-wing parties have formed a new platform, Sumar, to secure third place and potentially form a coalition government with Sánchez, while warning against the far-right's influence.