Ceuta migrant influx fuels criticism of Sanchez ahead of November election
Two months after more than 70,000 migrants entered Ceuta, residents remain angry and opposition parties are using the crisis to attack Prime Minister Sanchez before the November vote.
More than 70,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta on July 30-31, and while most were returned within hours, thousands have remained for weeks in difficult conditions. Residents, including a nursing assistant and a civil servant, say they feel deserted by the central government and are now leaning toward the right for the upcoming November 29 election. The Popular Party, which has governed Ceuta for over 25 years, and far-right Vox have both campaigned in the city, accusing Prime Minister Sanchez of softness on immigration and of allowing a "hybrid attack" by Morocco, an allegation both governments reject.
Political scientist Cristina Monge echoed the criticism, while a September poll found 63 % of Spaniards view Sanchez's response as poor. Meanwhile, the eviction of pensioner Maricarmen Abascal has shifted public debate toward Spain's housing crisis, offering a potential boost to the incumbent. Opposition leaders continue to frame the election around immigration, Morocco, and corruption, though analysts warn the issue may soon be eclipsed by broader social concerns.
Why it matters
The Ceuta migrant surge is shaping voter sentiment and could influence the outcome of Spain's upcoming national election.
How this story developed
- Oct 5 Spain's housing crisis fuels massive protests and pushes early elections
- Oct 8 The Sánchez government delivered two housing decree‑laws to the Permanent Deputation for review.
- Oct 13 Vélez Viola’s international holdings include two firms in Panama and a domestic portfolio managed through Nest Capital Homes, which rents out a minimum of 30 apartments and studios. The family business also has ties to Argentina and past involvement in a company previously led by his father, José Luis Vélez Burrell. Recent government measures target large landlords, while the couple defends the stricter rules despite their own interests. Eviction proceedings have been recorded against several of the rental units. Montse Mínguez has framed criticism of the business as a personal attack.
- Oct 16 The tenant union announced a nationwide strike aimed at the PSOE over the partner’s rental holdings.
- Oct 19 President Pedro Sánchez used a rally in Valladolid to caution voters that the PP and Vox plan to govern with a “chainsaw” approach, while Argentine President Javier Milei arrived in Madrid for meetings with regional leaders.
- Oct 21 A closed‑door meeting between Ayuso and Milei was announced for Wednesday afternoon.
- Oct 22 Ayuso’s meeting with Milei was held at the Canal de Isabel II facilities and photographed, confirming the location.
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