Catalonia Regional Election

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Catalonia is holding a regional election with implications for Spain's national politics. Separatist movement strength and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's policies will be tested. Former regional president Carles Puigdemont, a fugitive, is running despite legal troubles. Amnesty efforts and party dynamics make this a crucial election.

Key Points

  • More than 5.7 million voters eligible
  • Separatist support has slightly decreased since 2017
  • Deal-making crucial due to multiple parties running

Pros

  • Test for separatist movement strength
  • Test for Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's policies
  • Potential for reducing tensions in Catalonia

Cons

  • Legal troubles of former regional president Carles Puigdemont
  • Risk of blow to Prime Minister Sánchez if voters don't validate his efforts
  • Potential for increased division within the separatist camp