Spain faces political uncertainty despite conservative People's Party slim majority

Spain finds itself in a state of political uncertainty after Sunday's snap election failed to produce a clear winner, possibly leading the country to head back to the polls in the coming months.

The conservative People's Party (PP) emerged with the most seats but fell short of securing a parliamentary majority, even with the support of the far-right Vox party.

Now, both the conservatives, led by Alberto Núñez Feijóo, and the incumbent Socialists, led by Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, will embark on separate efforts to form coalitions.

On Monday, PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo and Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez will commence negotiations in an attempt to avoid a fresh vote, which could potentially take place by the end of 2023.

As the leader of the party with the most votes, Feijóo will receive an invitation from King Felipe VI to try to form a government. However, if he declines due to inadequate support - a scenario similar to former PP leader Mariano Rajoy's in 2015 - the king may then turn to Mr. Sánchez.

Upon accepting the king's invitation, the chosen candidate will have a two-month window to secure a majority. Failing to do so will result in new elections being called.

PP official Borja Sémper suggested that Sánchez will be the first person Feijóo calls to request support for the PP in forming a "solo government with specific agreements."

However, it is doubtful that the Socialist prime minister will agree to such a request.

Despite the inconclusive outcome, Mr. Feijóo addressed enthusiastic conservative supporters, stating that it was now his responsibility to try to form a government. He remarked, "Spaniards know we have gone from being the second force to the party with the most votes," while hoping that the situation doesn't lead to a prolonged period of uncertainty in Spain.

Nonetheless, uncertainty is precisely what Spain faces. With the far-right party Vox securing 33 seats and Feijóo's PP reaching 136, they fall seven seats short of the required absolute majority of 176 in parliament.

This is why Sánchez's Socialists and his far-left allies Sumar appeared to be more content with the election results. Mr. Sánchez addressed his supporters, stating, "The reactionary bloc of regression, which sought to reverse all the progress we've made over the past four years, has failed."