Trial for Spain’s First Lady on Corruption Charges

Begoña Gómez, wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, is set to face trial for alleged corruption and influence peddling in her role as Spain’s first lady. A Madrid judge ruled on Saturday that there is sufficient evidence for the trial to proceed.

Ms. Gómez has been the subject of an investigation since 2024, following a complaint by an anti-graft group. The group accused her of influencing the awarding of public contracts to companies linked to her personally and professionally. Despite her denial of the accusations, Judge Juan Carlos Peinado formally charged her with embezzlement, corruption, misappropriation of funds, and influence peddling.

Besides ordering her to surrender her passport, the judge mandated Ms. Gómez to report to the court every 15 days. The trial date remains undecided. In his detailed ruling, Judge Peinado noted, “Behaviors such as these emanating from presidential palaces seem more characteristic of absolutist regimes, thankfully long forgotten in our country.”

Spain’s legal system permits plaintiffs to lodge complaints directly with the court. The judge then investigates, reviews, and determines whether the case should go to trial. Several right-wing entities, including the Vox party, have joined the complaint against Ms. Gómez.

Prime Minister Sánchez has characterized the legal actions against his wife as a “harassment and demolition” campaign by adversaries. He contemplated resigning amid the investigation but chose to remain in office, viewing the situation as a politically motivated smear. As a leader admired by liberals internationally, Sánchez has faced increasing scrutiny domestically, with corruption allegations affecting him and his associates.