Feijóo's Strategy: Aligning with Vox for Stable Regional Governments

On Monday night, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, the leader of the Popular Party (PP), clearly outlined his objective to forge agreements with Vox in order to establish stable governments in regions where the PP has not achieved an absolute majority. As he put it, the door remains open for negotiations in regions like Aragon and Extremadura, as well as wherever necessary within Spain. In an interview for the program La Brújula on Onda Cero, Feijóo revealed that he had an extensive and productive conversation with Vox's president, Santiago Abascal, the previous Sunday. This communication has crystallized into a strategic move: the PP has publicly released a framework document outlining the parameters for regional negotiations. The document aims to create a coherent political and programmatic foundation to guide the PP and Vox in cementing agreements that will ensure stability throughout the legislative term. The goal extends beyond merely investing regional presidents; it is crucial to see that budgets receive approval for the full four-year term. This maneuver serves as a warning to political observers as Spain is now in an electoral cycle. Among the proposed conditions by the PP are adherence to the proportional representation resulting from the polls, a commitment to regional institutions, and the defense of the Head of State. These stipulations set forth clear non-negotiable lines for partnership. Feijóo emphasized that while he aims to govern independently wherever possible, the reality in some areas dictates that cooperation with the third largest political force, Vox, is essential to prevent political deadlock. Notably, he stated there are "no red lines" established with Vox, contrasting sharply with his firm stance against potential partnerships with Bildu and any group that operates outside the constitutional framework. He made it clear that he will refuse to enter into agreements that undermine the Constitution or the unity of Spain, underscoring a key distinction between his approach and what he describes as the alliances made by the current government. Feijóo also addressed pressing issues such as immigration policy. He voiced opposition to the government's recent announcement regarding the regularization of immigrants, arguing that it diverges from European principles outlined in the immigration and asylum pact. He posited that this governmental initiative could have significant repercussions on the electoral landscape. Additionally, he criticized Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska about the sexual assault allegations involving the DAO of the Police, stating that the Interior Minister bears political responsibility for the circumstances surrounding the incident. As the elections in Castilla y León approach, the political stakes extend beyond the immediate regional context; the implications could set a precedent for alliance models on a national scale. While Feijóo's ultimate ambition is to govern independently from La Moncloa, he remains open to the possibility of securing support for an investiture from parties like Vox. His strategic gameplay appears to be long-term, but the road ahead for both him and his party remains challenging. The initial test for this new alliance model will unfold in Aragon and Extremadura, with the next critical date set for March 15. If the PP and Vox can successfully finalize their agreements, this new coalition scheme could pave the way for similar arrangements wherever absolute majorities are not attained. This outcome was not unexpected, but the real negotiation phase has now commenced. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2