The Battle for Catalan Votes
As Catalonia prepares for the crucial regional elections on May 12, the upcoming European elections on June 9 take on importance. Political parties have presented their star candidates, including Dolors Montserrat of the PP, Teresa Ribera of the PSOE, Diana Riba of ERC and Toni Comín of Junts per Catalunya.
The Return of Puigdemont: A Polarizing Factor?
The European electoral campaign will coincide with the negotiations for the Catalan elections and the possible return of former president Carles Puigdemont to Catalonia. His return could further stir political waters and polarize the electoral landscape.
The PP Leads the Polls, Vox Gains Ground
According to a recent survey, the PP led by Montserrat is emerging as the clear favorite, surpassing Teresa Ribera’s PSOE. The popular parties could obtain up to 39.2% of the votes, which would translate into 26 MEPs. Together with Vox, which is expected to obtain 10.3% of the votes and 7 MEPs, the Spanish right could reach 49.5% of support.
The PSOE Loses Ground, the Left Divided
The PSOE faces a decrease in its support, projecting to obtain only 18 MEPs. The division within the left does not appear to benefit Sumar and Podemos, which are expected to retain their current six MEPs.
Catalonia, Basque Country and Other Regions
In the single constituencies of Catalonia, the Basque Country, Galicia and the Balearic Islands, obtaining representation is more challenging. Now Repúblicas, the coalition of ERC, BNG, Bildu and MÉS, plans to obtain three MEPs. Junts per Catalunya, led by Toni Comín, would lose two MEPs, leaving only one. The PNV, Canarian Coalition and Geroa Bai could be left without representation in the European Parliament.