In times of political turmoil, coalitions are formed with a clear idea of what they are against rather than what they are for. This is evident in the emergence of a “post-fascism” – a term coined by Ana Fernández-Cebrián and Víctor Pueyo – which has prompted emergency alliances to combat this ideology. These alliances vary in their composition, with some being more heterogeneous than others. Examples include the New Popular Front in France and the coalition led by Plataforma Cívica in Poland. While these coalitions are based on pragmatic agreements among party leaders, they also reflect a deeper sense of solidarity and shared values among their supporters.
In Spain, a similar dynamic can be observed in the parliamentary coalition that supports Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, which includes a wide range of ideological positions, from Podemos to Catalan nationalists. The grassroots supporters of this coalition demonstrate a nuanced understanding of politics, appreciating politicians from various parties based on their actions rather than their party affiliation. This “coalition people” embrace figures like Oskar Matute, Pablo Bustinduy, and Alberto Garzón, while also acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of politicians across the political spectrum. This fluidity in political allegiances reflects a more pragmatic and nuanced approach to politics.
However, these coalitions are not without their challenges. Like Elizabeth Taylor’s health, they are constantly on the brink of collapse, surviving on the “mad force of discouragement” as described by poet Ángel González. Any crisis within one member party can have ripple effects throughout the entire coalition. In Spain, the recent struggles of the Sumar coalition illustrate these challenges, as the left-wing alliance faces a period of internal reflection and restructuring. The risk of fragmentation and isolation from the mainstream center-left party looms large, posing a threat to the overall stability of the coalition.
As the left-wing coalition navigates these challenges, it must remain vigilant against the danger of fragmentation and division. The implicit understanding among coalition members to reward good actions and condemn wrongdoing without bias must be upheld, even if it means sanctioning specific individuals within the alliance. This collective consciousness, which values actions over party affiliations, will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the coalition. Ultimately, the success of these coalitions hinges on their ability to navigate internal differences and remain focused on their common goals and values.
