Pedro Sánchez is determined to present the Budget in Congress despite the strong risk of a harsh parliamentary defeat. The decision, according to government sources, has been made at the highest level and is non-negotiable. The government, which previously insisted on only presenting the Budget if it had enough support to pass it, is now determined to move forward with the Budget with the clear risk of exposing its parliamentary weakness. The government aims to force all political groups to reveal their stance and bear the political cost of rejecting an expansive Budget that would benefit millions of citizens. Despite the possibility of a grave parliamentary defeat, Sánchez has decided to move forward with presenting the Budget. If the Budget is rejected, the government can continue with an extended Budget, as previous governments have done, and still implement their economic policies.
Sánchez is resolute in his decision to proceed with the Budget, even in the face of potential defeat, with the understanding that it does not necessarily mean early elections or the fall of the government. The government is determined to pass the Budget to fully execute its political plans, but is prepared to continue with an extended Budget if necessary. The government believes they can continue with the current Budget as it aligns with the economic policies of the coalition government. The government aims to reassure the public of political stability amidst challenges faced, particularly with Junts, ahead of a crucial Federal Committee meeting of the PSOE. The government is steadfast in their commitment to providing stability and reassurance in the political climate.
In previous instances where the Budget was rejected in 2019, Sánchez opted for early elections and eventually formed a coalition government with Podemos. However, the current political landscape suggests that rejection of the Budget may not result in early elections. Sánchez has demonstrated the ability to advance his policies through individual negotiations and has already secured approval for crucial reforms essential for EU funds. Negotiators anticipate challenges in passing the Budget due to strained relationships, particularly with Junts, following recent political developments. Despite this, the government remains hopeful that Junts will eventually reconsider the benefits of aligning with the majority for negotiation within the Budget.
The government plans to present the same stability framework rejected in July by Junts, Vox, and the PP, signaling a stand-off with opposition parties. Even if the Budget proposal is rejected again, the government can proceed with the previous stability framework, although this would mean tighter fiscal constraints for autonomous regions. The government intends to highlight the economic implications for communities controlled by opposing parties, emphasizing the loss of funding for public services if the stability framework is not supported. The government aims to showcase the potential consequences of voting against the stability framework, particularly for autonomous regions and municipalities.
Negotiations will continue leading up to the final Budget vote, with potential collaboration or opposition from Junts, the PP, and Vox. If these parties collectively reject the Budget, the government may need to extend the current Budget until the political landscape shifts or new elections are called. However, the government remains firm in its commitment to prolonging the current term and avoiding early elections. Following upcoming congress meetings for Junts, ERC, and the PSOE, the government anticipates a calmer political environment for further negotiations and potential Budget proposals for 2025. Despite challenges and uncertainties, the government stands by its commitment to governance and stability for the foreseeable future.
