Spain’s transportation minister steps down over train crash to try to save the Socialist campaign ahead of elections

Óscar Puente resigned as Spain's transportation minister following a deadly train crash, aiming to salvage the Socialist Party's election campaign. The crash, which killed 69, occurred just nine months after a similar incident, damaging government support. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hopes Puente's resignation will reinvigorate the left ahead of the November 29 elections. Puente's departure was welcomed by critics who demanded accountability for the accidents. He acknowledged significant investment shortfalls in the rail system and emphasized the need for safety improvements. Despite concerns about public anger shifting to Sánchez, the government views this move as a step towards restoring confidence in the Socialist Party.