Government suffers double defeat on housing bills as coalition partner rebels

On Friday, Spain's Congress annulled two housing decrees that the cabinet had passed three days earlier, after Junts cast a dissenting vote alongside the PP, Vox and UPN. The government was aware from the previous day that Carles Puigdemont's party would call for the withdrawal of the proposals, but proceeded with the vote regardless. The defeat underscores the difficulty the Sánchez administration faces in gathering sufficient parliamentary support, even on issues central to its agenda.

Commentators note that the episode may push Sánchez to contemplate an early election, though opinions differ on that option. The outcome also means the executive must restart negotiations on housing policy, a sector under intense social and political pressure. Overall, the episode reflects a broader confidence challenge for one outlet government.