Luis Tudanca, the long-standing leader of the PSOE in Castilla y León, has announced he will not seek re-election, paving the way for Soria’s mayor, Carlos Martínez, to take over without a primary election.

Tudanca’s decision follows months of internal disputes with the party’s national leadership, Ferraz, over the timing of primaries.

This move is seen as a strategy to avoid internal divisions ahead of the 2026 regional elections.

Martínez, known for his four consecutive majority wins in Soria, is expected to lead a unified front.

While Tudanca’s tenure brought electoral gains, his inability to secure governance has prompted calls for fresh leadership.

The PSOE aims to present a cohesive image as it prepares for potential early elections in the region.