The PSOE-A candidate for the Presidency of the Junta, María Jesús Montero, announced this Sunday in Córdoba that she will promote a law on maximum waiting times in Andalusian healthcare if she comes to the regional government. Her proposal involves guaranteeing healthcare within 24 to 48 hours, one of the main promises with which the socialists seek to make healthcare management the focus of the May 17 campaign.
Montero made this announcement at an event with the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez, in what is the socialist leader's second visit to Andalusia during the pre-campaign. The Andalusian leader argued that the community needs to "recover the strength of public services" and placed waiting lists and primary care among the priorities of a potential socialist Executive.
Healthcare, electoral battlefield
The Andalusian PSOE considers that the wear and tear of the healthcare system could become one of the main weak points of the Government of Juanma Moreno. For this reason, Montero wanted to convey a concrete and easily recognizable measure for the electorate: to legally limit the times of access to consultations and medical care.
The promise seeks to connect with one of the recurring concerns of Andalusian voters, especially in urban areas and among the older population, where the perception of healthcare delays has gained weight in recent years.
Montero vindicates Sánchez
During her speech, the socialist candidate dedicated a good part of her speech to praising the figure of the President of the Government, whom she defined as "the bravest man" she knows. The militants responded by chanting Sánchez's name on several occasions.
Montero highlighted that the head of the Executive “governs thinking about the common good” and defended his role in both national and international politics. He also maintained that he has never “knelt before economic powers or international leaders”.
Foreign policy and leadership message
The first vice president linked that leadership to Spain's position in recent international conflicts. She cited the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the situation in Gaza, and the tension in the Middle East to advocate for a foreign policy focused on peace and dialogue.
“When they criticize him, I feel calm, because if he makes noise it’s because he’s right”, stated Montero, in a speech clearly aimed at mobilizing the socialist electorate and closing ranks around Sánchez’s leadership.
Córdoba, strategic stop
The rally in Córdoba is interpreted within the PSOE's strategy to reinforce territorial presence in key provinces. The socialist leadership considers that mobilization in the Andalusian interior will be decisive to close the gap with the PP in elections where polls continue to favor Moreno.
With healthcare as a banner and Sánchez as the main national asset, Montero tries to open a campaign based on public management, internal cohesion, and direct contrast with the current Andalusian Government.