Miguel Barrachina, who directs the PPCV campaign, criticized Puig’s housing stance by asserting that Puig now touts affordable housing after what Barrachina calls a national record of housing shortcomings. He argued that the very leader who allegedly blocked people from accessing housing would opportunistically pledge to advance social rental programs during an election cycle, a claim Barrachina described as shameless and politically convenient.
The campaign director described Puig as a figure who, in Barrachina’s words, occupies a position akin to a dog in the manger at Puig’s own shelter: he neither benefits from housing policies nor allows others to do so. Barrachina summarized what he sees as a pattern of opposition to publicly funded housing initiatives and a reluctance to address private housing needs. He pointed to what he called a national record of housing incompetence, marked by legal uncertainty, insufficient actions against occupancy issues, and intrusive policies that he claims contributed to a withdrawal from rental housing and a steep rise in housing costs in the capital, noting a 26% increase last year.
Barrachina asserted that eight years at the helm of housing policy produced zero social housing, zero rental housing, and zero subsidized housing. He warned against accepting promises that he believes stem from a past balance sheet deemed disastrous, urging skepticism toward future housing plans that may be offered in a political campaign. He echoed the view of Carlos Mazón, arguing that what is needed are lower taxes, a pipeline of officially protected housing, clearer guarantees for first-time home buyers, and a practical emphasis on tangible, verifiable benefits rather than grandiose commitments. The dialogue, he said, should focus on delivering real results for families and young people seeking stable housing. [Citation: Local electoral council]
In summarizing the broader debate, Barrachina emphasized a shift toward concrete policy instruments that could provide immediate relief and long-term certainty. He stressed the importance of a predictable regulatory environment, the protection of private housing markets, and targeted support for first-time buyers. The critique also touched on the political risk of promising extensive housing reforms without a clear plan for funding or implementation, arguing this could undermine trust among voters in the face of rising rents and housing instability. [Citation: Regional policy brief]
Supporters of Barrachina’s stance argue that housing policy should prioritize fiscal prudence, transparent tax policy, and robust protections for purchasers and tenants alike. They advocate for reforms that balance market incentives with social responsibility, ensuring that new housing supply comes on line with reasonable standards and accessible financing. They contend that a credible housing strategy must demonstrate steady progress, measurable milestones, and a credible budget path to avoid political rhetoric that could disappoint citizens who are watching the cost of living rise. [Citation: Policy think tank report]