Unpacking the Transnational VOX: Latinos' Support, VOX Spain and the Creation of the Iberosphere

This paper delves into the nuanced nexus between populist radical right-wing (PRR) parties and minority, historically under-represented groups–a dimension often overshadowed by the stereotypical portrayal of these parties as appealing mainly to male, chauvinistic, and anti-immigrant electorates. We center on Spain, where VOX has emerged as the nationwide epitome of radical right-wing populism, garnering attention for its engagement with women, LGBTI+ communities, and immigrants. However, the transnational dynamics, particularly VOX’s connection with Latin America and its Latino support base in Spain, remain largely unexplored. Our study extends beyond VOX, encompassing the People’s Party (PP), its main competitor, to illuminate a phenomenon of ideological and strategic ‘contagion’ where mainstream right-wing parties increasingly incorporate elements of PRR rhetoric and policy. This cross-pollination means a broader shift in the Spanish political landscape, warranting a comprehensive, multi-level assessment. Employing variegated sources such as party manifestos, public discourses, and in-depth interviews with key actors, our analysis scrutinises VOX’s political campaigns and the broader meta-geographic construct of the ‘Iberosphere’. By doing so, it not only leads to contributing to the literature on transnational populism but also seeks to unravel the circumstances under which minority and historically under-represented groups might lend their electoral support to radical populist right-wing entities. In particular, the article highlights how the PP's strategic responses and narrative adaptations to VOX’s rise illuminate the complexities of political realignments within Spain’s right-wing spectrum.