Nieves Sánchez has stepped down from her position as chief of staff to the First Vice President of the Provincial Council of Teruel amid allegations of irregular contract awards. This decision comes just before the regional elections scheduled for February 8, after media reports highlighted these potential irregularities, intensifying scrutiny on Guitarte's party, Teruel Existe. The resignation has escalated tensions between candidates, particularly during a heated debate with Alberto Izquierdo of the PAR party.

The controversy surrounding Sánchez's resignation reflects broader concerns about transparency and accountability within local governance in Spain, especially as elections approach. Guitarte, who leads Teruel Existe, has positioned his party as a crucial player against the rise of far-right parties like Vox, emphasizing their role in fostering a more democratic and representative governance model. The situation thus not only affects Guitarte's personal and political reputation but also the party's standing in the upcoming elections.

Furthermore, the demands from PAR's candidate for Sánchez to resign indicate a politicization of the allegations, highlighting possible strategic maneuvers in a competitive electoral landscape. As the campaign develops, the implications of these allegations may resonate with the electorate and could potentially sway opinions regarding Teruel Existe and its advocacy for regional concerns, beyond the immediate scandal.