In Castilla y León, the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) faces a challenging electoral landscape as it prepares for the upcoming autonomous elections scheduled for March 15. Despite the party's limited chances of governing, they are banking on the candidacy of Carlos Martínez, the least 'sanchista' candidate among those selected by the PSOE. Martínez, who has served as the mayor of Soria since 2007 and recently became the regional secretary of the PSOE, is seen as a potential victor due to the fragmentation of right-wing votes between the People's Party (PP) and Vox, as supported by internal surveys from the party's headquarters in Ferraz.

The internal dynamics within the PSOE of Castilla y León are complicated, particularly due to the influence of Santos Cerdán, the former secretary of Organization, whose actions have left the party federation somewhat divided. Martínez’s candidacy represents a pivot away from the more aligned 'sanchista' potential candidates, which may resonate more with the electorate looking for stability in a fractious political environment. This strategic choice highlights the PSOE's adaptability in navigating its leadership dynamics while attempting to gain electoral ground.

PSOE leaders assert that Castilla y León is their best position in the current electoral challenges faced across various regions including Extremadura and Aragón. The party’s strategy seems focused on capitalizing on existing divisions within their opponents, leveraging these fractures to consolidate support around Martínez and potentially secure a favorable outcome in the upcoming elections. As they move closer to the election date, the PSOE's tactical decisions will be crucial to determine their fortunes in a competitive political arena.