Salvador Illa, the President of Catalonia, has returned to political activity after a month-long recovery from osteomyelitis. His main focus is to negotiate the budget for 2026, which is significant as it represents the first budget of his term. Illa appears determined and has expressed a commitment to addressing the needs of the Catalan people, stating his awareness of their concerns regarding housing and other pressing issues.

During his first public appearance upon his return, Illa emphasized the importance of these budget discussions and the necessity for collaboration with parties such as Comuns and ERC. He acknowledged the widespread concern among citizens regarding housing accessibility and other socio-economic challenges, signaling an intent to tackle these during budget negotiations. His leadership at this critical juncture aims to stabilize the government and demonstrate responsiveness to immediate public needs.

Illa's recovery and renewed commitment to governance come at a time when the Catalan administration faces various challenges, including economic pressures and public discontent. His push for budget approval is not just about financial planning but also about re-establishing confidence among the electorate and ensuring that their voices and needs are prioritized in government decision-making. The upcoming negotiations will be crucial in framing the political landscape for the remainder of his term, particularly in terms of collaboration with local governing bodies and political entities.