María Guardiola Champions 'Useful Politics' Amid Pre-Election Criticism

In the lead-up to the December 21 elections, María Guardiola, incumbent president of the Junta de Extremadura and PP candidate for re-election, has reinforced her campaign on the theme of "useful politics" during a pre-campaign event in Lobón, Badajoz. Guardiola criticized her main opponent, Miguel Ángel Gallardo of the PSOE, labeling him undignified and accusing him of corruption, including allegations of prevarication and improper influence. She accused Gallardo of misleading Extremadura's citizens and misusing public funds, framing the election as a choice between dignity and corruption.

Additionally, Guardiola blamed Vox for betraying Extremadura's interests by aligning with PSOE and Unidas por Extremadura votes in the current legislature, stating Vox has shifted from being part of the solution to part of the problem. She pledged to present the best budget if re-elected and called on national PP leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo to support Extremadura’s priorities, notably regarding the future of the Almaraz nuclear power plant.

Gallardo responded by accusing Guardiola of prioritizing the national PP's agenda over regional needs. He highlighted a proposed €1.7 billion debt relief package from the central government that could fund social policies in Extremadura and urged Guardiola to choose between this opportunity or continued allegiance to Feijóo's leadership. Gallardo also emphasized recent governmental support for ELA patients and called for the Junta to match this commitment with funding and responsibilities.

This exchange underlines the political tensions as Extremadura voters approach the vote, with Guardiola focusing on practical governance and fiscal responsibility, while Gallardo stresses local interests and social investment.