The ‘anti-system’ drift of the extreme right opens the hunt against the King
The extreme right in Spain, represented by Vox, is distancing itself from King Felipe VI and has begun to criticize the monarchy following his support for a controversial amnesty law.
In recent times, the extreme right in Spain, particularly the Vox party, has significantly shifted its stance with respect to the monarchy. Initially, Vox presented itself as a staunch supporter of the monarchy, exemplified by Santiago Abascal's exclamations of loyalty to King Felipe VI in 2020. However, as Vox has embraced a more populist and anti-system approach reminiscent of Trumpism, it has increasingly vocalized criticism towards the established institutions, including the monarchy. The party's leadership now frames the monarchy and the government as part of the 'caste' that they claim exploits the state.
The turning point for this shift seems to coincide with King Felipe VI's approval of a controversial amnesty law in 2024, which has led Vox to suggest that the King has failed to meet the expectations of the people. By targeting the monarchy, Vox is tapping into a growing sentiment among certain segments of the population that question the legitimacy of traditional institutions. This reflects broader trends in European politics, where parties on the extreme right are often challenging the status quo and attempting to reshape national narratives.
This drift towards criticism of the monarchy raises important implications for the political landscape in Spain. It could signify a broader erosion of support for traditional monarchical authority, particularly among younger voters who may feel disillusioned with established political frameworks. As Vox continues to position itself as a voice for the disaffected, its anti-monarchical rhetoric could resonate and possibly reshape the dynamics of royal support in Spain, leading to a contentious political climate.