Margarita Robles, the current Minister of Defense, will be the second candidate for Pedro Sánchez in the PSOE list for Madrid’s upcoming elections. The decision will be ratified at the PSOE's Federal Committee on October 17 in Fuenlabrada, Madrid.
Alongside Robles, other government ministers are slated to appear on the list. Félix Bolaños and Fernando Grande-Marlaska are named, as is José Manuel Albares, indicating a broad representation of Sánchez’s cabinet in the Madrid slate.
Robles’ position as number two is interpreted as a sign of Sánchez’s support for a prominent figure in his cabinet. Observers say the choice reflects the prime minister’s trust in her and her backing of the National Intelligence Centre (CNI).
The placement of Robles is also described as an attempt to appeal to Madrid’s moderate voters and to counter the influence of the PP and Vox.
Robles’ time at the Defense Ministry has been characterised by strain, especially over the migration crisis in Ceuta. The situation in the North African enclave has tested her leadership and prompted disagreements within the government.
In the wake of the immigration crisis in Ceuta, Pedro Sánchez reassigned Robles as the number two candidate, putting her ahead of Fernando Grande-Marlaska. The shift is presented as a way to bolster Sánchez’s handling of the crisis and to connect with centre‑right voters.
The placement of Robles is also described as an attempt to appeal to Madrid’s moderate voters and to counter the influence of the PP and Vox. By positioning a respected defense figure high on the list, Sánchez hopes to broaden the PSOE’s appeal.
Although she is not a formal party member, Robles was the star recruit for the PSOE in the 2016 elections and has since held significant roles within the organisation. Robles, who is not a party member, was previously the star recruit for the 2016 elections and has held significant roles in the party.
The decision to elevate Robles followed a dispute with Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska over the management of the Ceuta crisis. The disagreement contributed to the reshuffle that placed her ahead of him on the list.
Analysts note that Sánchez’s trust in Robles is linked to her support for the National Intelligence Centre. Her support for the CNI has been noted.
The Madrid vote is set for 29 November, and the PSOE list will contain ten positions. On 14 October 2026 the party finalised the candidate list, announced it, appointed Robles as number two, and held the Madrid executive meeting to approve the parliamentary slate. Three days later, on 17 October, the PSOE’s Federal Committee will meet in Fuenlabrada to ratify the choices.