Elche’s Socialist party members are racing the clock to finalize their candidate list as the May 28 elections approach. In a bid to secure a strong lineup, the party will host a long day of internal ballots and discussions this weekend, with votes on the 26 preferred options. The chain of conversations will begin early and extend through the evening, culminating at the headquarters of a senior party figure. The assignment of the general secretary will also figure prominently as the councilors gather later in the week for a decisive afternoon session.
With the final say on shaping the candidacy resting in the hands of the party leadership, the process unfolded as the socialist leader reached out to councilors from the governing team one by one. After this sequence of individual meetings, the executive is expected to convene, assess the feedback, and forward a proposed list. Sources indicate 13 male and 13 female names could be paired with Carlos González, a plan Soler has repeatedly described as a process of listening to the candidate and constructing a cohesive slate that reflects the party’s priorities.
Vertigo days at Elche PSOE
The proposal envisioned by the Elche PSOE leadership is meant to be presented to the parliamentary body before the end of the week, yet it is clear that this is not the only option on the table for militants who will cast their votes on Saturday. Individual members retain the right to pursue their own candidacies, provided they secure the necessary support and are eligible in the party’s rules. In such cases, a subsequent review by the executive can confirm or refine the final slate.
41 people in 2019
Historically, the process has drawn large participation. For instance, in 2019 as many as 41 hopefuls vied for a spot on the PSOE ballot for municipal elections. The current debate therefore reflects both the alignment of the leadership’s proposals and the willingness of other party members to present themselves independently. The dynamic tension between Soler’s suggested framework, González’s alternative, and those stepping forward autonomously illustrates the party’s open yet competitive approach to candidate selection.
A decisive February for the Mayor of Elche?
Looking ahead, the weekend’s non-binding consultation leaves room for interpretation. The immediate order issued from this vote will not bind the final decision, since the executive is slated to reconvene in the following days for a definitive agreement. The tally will reveal a mix of male and female contenders who could accompany González, with the composition of the team expected to reflect a balanced, capable administration that can address the city’s priorities. The plan calls for a substantial representation, with a notable share of candidates still to be determined as the process unfolds.