In the Valencian Community, the recent elections revealed both the potential and the challenges of the progressive coalition Sumar - Compromís. Winning four out of 31 seats for Sumar, the coalition played a pivotal role in supporting Spain's progressive national government and fending off the rise of the far right. Yet, locally, the progressive front suffered significant setbacks.
Election Results and Political Shifts
On July 23, 2023, voters had the chance to choose a united progressive option, merging left-wing, Valencianist, and ecological voices under the Sumar - Compromís banner. The coalition secured three deputies from Valencia and one from Alicante, narrowly missing an additional seat in Castellón. These four deputies were crucial for maintaining Spain's coalition government and preventing an extreme right takeover.
However, just a month earlier, the Botànic coalition lost control of the Generalitat to the Popular Party (PP) and Vox, after leftist forces failed to meet the 5% threshold needed for representation. This defeat was partly linked to the fragmentation among progressives and underscored the difficulty of consolidating the left vote.
Challenges Amid Corruption and Governance Issues
Recent corruption scandals involving former PSOE officials have further strained the progressive camp. Without a clear majority in Congress, passing key agreements between Sumar and PSOE has become slower, though advances like raising the minimum wage and enhancing fiscal progressivity have continued.
Locally, the PP-led Valencian government has faced criticism over its response to the deadly flash floods (DANA) that caused 228 deaths, and ethical concerns surrounding the Ventorro case. These controversies fuel calls for the government's resignation, though political realities suggest change is unlikely soon.
Renewing Progressive Alliances for a Brighter Future
Given these developments, there is a growing demand among Valencian citizens for a unified left-wing and green alliance. The goal: to stop the current right-wing government's course and advance social progress with a focus on justice, environmental issues, and a plurinational public perspective.
Moviment Sumar País Valencià leaders Xavier López and Carmen Padilla emphasize the need to revive the successful cooperation seen in July 23 elections, despite past tensions. They call on all political and social organizations involved to collaborate once more and "turn the light back on" in the Valencian Community.
As new electoral cycles approach, the challenge is clear: building a cohesive progressive front that can confront rising authoritarianism and deliver meaningful, inclusive change in the region.