Sánchez and Feijóo present contrasting strategies at Foro La Toja

Pedro Sánchez and Alberto Núñez Feijóo presented contrasting political strategies during the eighth edition of the Foro La Toja on October 3, 2026. Under the international theme “A world in disorder,” the two leaders offered divergent interpretations of Spain’s current state as the legislative term nears its end.

President Sánchez sought to frame Spanish policy within global transformations, arguing that the left must adopt and redefine the concept of order. He argued that global inequalities drive migration to Europe and that energy dependence necessitates a faster ecological transition.

Feijóo’s Focus on Domestic Order

In contrast, the leader of the Partido Popular (PP) rejected the international focus, stating that before attempting to order the world, it would be advisable to “take a look at home.” Feijóo argued that Spain suffers from a “national disorder” caused by a lack of “minimum hygiene” required of a serious country. He claimed that the government has subordinated state institutions to the survival needs of the Executive and has turned exceptional measures into habitual practice. He stated that the national disorder is not due to political disagreements, but because Spain lacks “minimum democratic hygiene.” He further alleged that institutions have been placed at the service of a personal project.

Feijóo’s criticisms focused on several specific areas of governance:

• The use of royal decrees and simultaneous decrees with contradictory measures.
• The lack of approved budgets.
• The perceived intimidation of the judiciary by the Council of Ministers.
• The failure of housing policy, which he described as a “symbol of the failure of this Government.”

Proposed Institutional Reforms

Feijóo entered a “precampaign mode,” presenting himself as a reformist alternative to a “populist” model. He committed to ensuring Spain would not spend another legislature without budgets. To enforce this, he proposed a legal formula where the inability to approve new accounts after a first extension would lead to the dissolution of the Cortes and the calling of elections. He asserted that Sánchez should not “bitter more” and that Spaniards should decide at the polls now. Feijóo argued that Spain does not deserve a government that makes business out of the conflict between citizens, and he pledged a housing policy based on a plan that accepts all submitted allegations.

Interactions at La Toja

Despite the political friction, some unexpected moments of courtesy occurred. Later, at a presidential table during a meal, Feijóo offered “affectionate words” toward Narbona. The group dined at the Gran Hotel de La Toja, which is owned by businessman Amancio López Seijas.

However, tensions remained. During the event, Sánchez reportedly “scolded” Alfonso Rueda in public, claiming the Moncloa had done more than just “collaborate” to secure an investment in Galicia. It remains unclear how the government will respond to Feijóo’s specific demand for immediate elections.

About Foro La Toja

The forum was established in 2019 through the promotion of Amancio López, a board member of the Cercle, and the active involvement of former minister Josep Piqué.