Defeated by the economic crisis, Zapatero was forced to hand over the keys of La Moncloa to his political handyman. Can Alfredo Rubalcaba solve PSOE´s mess before presidential elections next year? The socialist candidate stepped down from his deputy Prime Minister post to distance himself from a government that has been repeatedly scolded by Brussels.
Now, Rubalcaba is ready start to regain some lost ground in the polls. Zapatero won the election by mobilizing the left minded voters. All those citizens are disappointed, so it will take some time for them to confide in the PSOE party again but... is that for granted?
Rubalcaba has transformed himself into a conversational teacher that seeks to recover confidence with the kind of proposals supported by the popular revolts of 15-M.
In the last few days, he has charged against bank executives, promised changes in the councils, open lists, a reform of the royalties canon and 8 billion euros for Healthcare investments ... how is he going to finance that? This sudden shift is just a populist measure to regain some votes.
This strategy risks alienating center minded voters, a difficult group for the PP too. At this point, such initiatives lack public confidence, since citizens know that they lead to an unsustainable path.
Rubalcaba, supported by the unions, is getting ready to lead a tough opposition on the street while PP will have to take difficult measures. Alfredo intends to manage the day after.
