The leader of the Partido Popular, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, has not ruled out working with Vox after the forthcoming parliamentary elections. On the programme Hoy por Hoy on Cadena SER he said on 23 October that he was prepared to “complete a majority with Vox” if the election result required it. At the same time, he set out his main aim: to replace Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez .
In the interview, Feijóo also outlined policy plans in the event of taking office. He would abolish the Ministry of Equality and transfer its responsibilities to other departments. He also announced a review of the rules on abortion and euthanasia. These points were reported on Thursday by RTVE and Europa Press .
By opening the door to Vox, Feijóo is clarifying his strategy ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary elections. The move is intended to preserve the option of a conservative change of government if the Partido Popular cannot secure a workable majority on its own. At the same time, the PP is seeking not to alienate voters in the political centre by presenting cooperation with Vox as a consequence of the election result rather than as a preferred coalition.
Reactions came swiftly. Representatives of the PSOE and other left-wing alliances warned that a conservative majority backed by Vox would roll back protections for minorities and equality concerns, and call into question key liberal reforms such as the euthanasia law. Voices in the conservative camp argue, by contrast, that the issue is the ability to govern in a fragmented parliament; an agreement with Vox could deliver a stable majority, provided there is sufficient overlap between their programmes.
It remains unclear how firmly Feijóo will draw his red lines with Vox. In several Spanish regions, the PP and Vox already govern together or under specific agreements; national talks, however, would be under greater scrutiny and judged against higher expectations. Which arrangements are realistic will only become clear once the seats have been allocated after the election. The parliamentary groups will then explore whether minority governments with support from other parties, formal coalitions or shifting majorities can work. One thing is clear: room for manoeuvre ends when negotiations officially begin; from then on, what counts are credible commitments and compromises that can command parliamentary support.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).