Alberto Núñez Feijóo began the year 2025 differently from the previous year. While in 2024, the Popular Party distributed a recording of the leader’s New Year message, this year, they only shared written words from Feijóo through social media alongside a video showcasing highlights of the past 12 months. Feijóo emphasized the party’s ambition to provide an alternative that restores prosperity, dignity, and value to Spanish politics. He also hinted at the possibility of general or regional elections in the coming months, highlighting the intense year ahead for the party.
The focus shifted to the New Year speeches of the regional presidents, with 11 of them being governed by the PP. These speeches highlighted the divide between different factions within the party, especially between Feijóo and Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the president of Madrid. Ayuso continued her battle against the central government, emphasizing her refusal to yield to “indignity” and “abuse”. Meanwhile, Juan Manuel Moreno, the president of Andalusia, underscored the importance of economic development and cooperation in resolving issues like the Gibraltar negotiations.
The New Year messages also addressed pressing issues like immigration, with Juanma Moreno advocating for a more compassionate approach. Carlos Mazón, the president of Valencia, called for unity in the face of challenges like the recent storm damage. Barons of the PP reiterated their demand for a reform of the autonomous financing system, with differing opinions on how to address this issue across regions. The leaders highlighted the need for effective dialogue, cooperation, and support from the central government.
As the 50th anniversary of Franco’s death approaches in 2025, tensions between the PSOE and the PP are also on the rise. Emiliano García-Page, the president of Castilla-La Mancha, warned against using historical events like this anniversary to divide rather than unite. He called for unity, urging a departure from polarization, populism, and confrontation. The focus for the coming year is on finding common ground and celebrating positive achievements together, emphasizing the importance of unity over division.
Overall, the New Year messages from regional leaders of the PP reflected a mix of priorities and challenges facing the party. While some leaders, like Díaz Ayuso, continued to confront the central government, others, like Moreno and Mazón, emphasized the need for cooperation and dialogue. The reform of the autonomous financing system, response to natural disasters, and immigration policies were among the key issues addressed in the speeches, highlighting the diverse perspectives within the party as they navigate the political landscape in the year ahead.
