• Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announces a snap election on November 29.
• The decision follows public outrage and parliamentary defeat over housing policies.
• Protests erupted after the eviction of an 87-year-old woman highlighted the housing crisis.
• Sanchez aims to secure a broader progressive majority to advance housing reforms.
• Over 70,000 people protested in Madrid demanding government action on affordable housing.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called for a snap election on November 29 following a significant parliamentary setback where housing relief measures proposed by his minority government were rejected. This political move comes amidst widespread protests across Spain demanding affordable housing solutions, triggered by the eviction of an 87-year-old woman from her long-time residence in Madrid. The government reported that over 70,000 protesters participated in a major demonstration in Madrid on Saturday, which underscored public frustration over rising housing costs, according to Al Jazeera and India Times.

In a televised address, Sanchez emphasized the need to "renew and broaden the support of the people," and stated that a broader progressive coalition in parliament would be essential to tackle major issues, including the housing crisis. The government's housing measures aimed at preventing evictions and regulating the rental market had been rejected by right-wing opposition parties, highlighting the legislative challenges he faces. Activists have criticized these political setbacks, as they are seen to exacerbate the ongoing housing crisis, according to Le Monde and NPR.

The housing crisis in Spain has reached a critical point, with calls for drastic reforms echoing throughout the country. The eviction of Maricarmen Abascal, which saw her forced out of her home due to a sharp rent increase, has become a rallying point for protesters demanding government intervention. This incident has intensified protests across multiple cities, reflecting a growing public discontent toward skyrocketing housing costs, as reported by BBC and Los Angeles Times.

Amidst this backdrop, Sanchez has called for early elections in the hopes of galvanizing support and solidifying a mandate to pursue his housing agenda, as polls suggest rising support for his party among voters concerned about housing affordability. The election will serve not only as a referendum on his government’s policies but also potentially shift the political landscape in favor of a coalition with left-leaning parties to combat the influence of conservative opposition, reported Los Angeles Times and BBC.