Spain's Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez unexpectedly called a snap national election on Monday and his main rival spelled out the aim of becoming the country's next leader, after left-wing parties were routed in a regional ballot.
Sanchez, who had repeatedly said he wanted to see out a full term in office, portrayed Sunday's crippling defeat as a clear vote of no confidence in his coalition government.
"...I believe it is necessary to respond and submit our democratic mandate to the will of the people," he said in a televised speech. Vox leader Santiago Abascal said his party was open "creating an alternative" to Sanchez by forming national and regional governing coalitions with the PP.Sanchez had previously said the national election would be in December, and it is rare for a Spanish government to call a snap ballot after a poor regional election - especially when much of the country will be on holiday.
Sources close to the prime minister said almost no one within the government knew of his decision beforehand.
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