María Muñoz is stepping away from Ciudadanos. The Valencia deputy in Congress announced his resignation from the party on his social media, a move that comes just days after word spread about the party’s electoral performance and the Liberal regrouping after a disappointing showing on 28M. The timing signals a shift in Muñoz’s political path as he weighs his next steps beyond the orange party.
Muñoz has already indicated that his seat will fall with the dissolution of the General Courts, underscoring the sense that he is leaving a formation facing a precarious future after a series of electoral setbacks. In the Valencian Community, Ciudadanos has effectively paused activity since the prior Sunday, with turmoil reverberating through the regional structure as leadership rearrangements continue to unfold.
The deputy told this newspaper that he will return to private life after his term ends, yet speculation has grown about possible ties to the Popular Party (PP). Observers say the PP could be the only viable option to drive political change ahead of the 23J date, especially in the wake of advances by the national leadership. Muñoz’s public hints have been read by many as a potential signal of alignment with the PP, though he has not publicly confirmed any formal move.
During his time in Congress, Muñoz was part of the close circle around Inés Arrimadas and was identified with the group known as the G-8, which helped steer Ciudadanos through a precarious phase of renewal. He ultimately left the circle after internal criticism from a party spokesperson, reflecting the tensions that have characterized Ciudadanos’ leadership and direction. His departure from that core group marked a broader withdrawal from frontline roles within the party as it faced ongoing scrutiny over strategy and messaging.
In the past, Muñoz supported Edmundo Bal’s list during general elections, but later stepped back from candidacy and signalled an intention to retire from political life by the end of the legislative term, returning to his professional pursuits. His social media writings after local elections emphasized a pledge of loyalty to colleagues and voters alike, suggesting a commitment that stretched beyond personal ambitions. Stories in political discourse often begin and end with moments of change, and Muñoz’s trajectory illustrates that pattern clearly.
With Mamen Peris rising to regional leadership of Ciudadanos in Valencia, Muñoz also relinquished his post as regional coordinator. Like several members of Ciudadanos’ parliamentary group in Congress, he criticized the party leadership’s decision not to present lists for the July elections, arguing that such moves risk undermining the party’s visibility and relevance during a critical electoral window. The evolving alignment within Valencian politics, along with the broader national climate, signals a period of realignment as actors reassess their positions and options for the near term.