The far-right Vox party has emerged as a decisive force in Spain’s Andalusia regional elections, positioning itself as a key player in the formation of the next government. The elections, held this week in Spain’s most populous region, marked a setback for Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s Socialist party, which recorded its poorest showing since regional elections began in 1982.

The conservative People’s Party (PP) secured the largest share of votes, but without an outright majority. Vox’s increased support has made it a necessary coalition partner for the PP to establish a governing majority. This coalition arrangement follows similar agreements forged between the two parties in other Spanish regions over the past six months.

Vox’s campaign capitalized on opposition to the Socialist government’s recent policy granting amnesty to approximately 500,000 undocumented immigrants. The party also advocated for prioritizing native-born Spaniards in access to public housing and social services, which resonated with a portion of the electorate and boosted its electoral performance.

The shift in Andalusia reflects broader political dynamics ahead of Spain’s national elections scheduled for next year, where the right-wing bloc appears to be consolidating influence. The Socialists’ decline in the region underscores challenges facing the party amid rising populist sentiments and debates over immigration and social policy.

As the PP and Vox move forward with coalition talks, the outcome is likely to reshape the political landscape in Andalusia, with potential implications for governance and policy direction in Spain’s most populous autonomous community.