Ferraz keeps Elche, Orihuela, Alcoy and Elda mayoral candidacies without primaries
Elche mayor Carlos González spoke about a federal PSOE decision that keeps mayors in place when they seek re-election. In municipalities with populations over 20,000, the commitment centers on stability rather than a new primary process. The implication is that incumbents may continue their leadership without facing a party-run primary, provided they keep the support of their voters and party colleagues.
“I am ready for my party and my city to win re-elections and become mayor again. I want to keep transforming the city. I feel strong, excited, with a clear project, experience and broad support to secure another term in Elche. The priority is to keep working for Elche and keep modernizing the city”, the city’s veteran mayor stated this morning, noting the decision gives him freedom as long as the party and the councilors agree. The remarks came after confirmation that, in principle, there would be no primaries for him if he chooses to run again, consistent with the federal guidance for other PSOE leaders in similar-sized cities who held office in 2023.
“I have the strength, enthusiasm, experience and social support to once again win a strong electoral mandate”, González asserted. He underscored that the party and the municipality are aligned in aiming to win the next elections in Elche and to renew his term running for reelection so as to continue modernizing the city and improving the quality of life for residents.
González added that this federal decision reflects a PSOE preference for stability and electoral success. The mayor clarified that while he does not automatically declare himself as the official party candidate, the approval of such a move rests with the federal committee and associated timelines. He stressed his respect for all procedures and his willingness to serve if his party and city choose it.
Throughout his political career, the Elche native has been a Socialist militant since early adulthood. He served as a council member in the Elche City Council from 1995 to 2004, handling responsibilities across Human Resources, Treasury, Contracting and Procurement, Citizen Safety, Traffic, Tourism and Economic Promotion. He also held leadership roles in regional municipal associations, including as vice president of both INTESA and PIMESA. His long service underlines a commitment to public administration and community development.
González rose to mayor in 2015 and has since been a recurrent figure in local governance discussions. His history includes multiple electoral campaigns and leadership responsibilities at the municipal level, along with participation in broader parliamentary work related to home affairs, justice, development and road safety. The debate surrounding candidacy continues to shape how Elche plans its governance path and investments at a moment of political transition.
As the PSOE considers its bevy of potential candidates, the emphasis remains on stability, governance continuity and a results-driven agenda for cities like Elche. The upcoming electoral landscape will reflect not only local priorities but also how the party positions itself in national conversations about public services, modernization and the well-being of residents across larger urban centers in the region.
In Elche, the political narrative centers on leadership continuity, the promise of ongoing urban modernization, and the broader strategy of the PSOE to consolidate mayoral seats through stable governance rather than frequent leadership contests. The dialogue between party leadership and municipal officials will continue to shape how the city advances on projects and policies designed to improve daily life for its residents. The evolving process remains subject to formal endorsements and procedural requirements set by the federal committee. [Attribution: PSOE press materials and public statements, summarized for context]