Spain ruling party bars members from hiring sex workers
Sanchez, 53, is facing the biggest crisis of his seven years in power. That was heightened on Monday by the detention of a former top official in his Socialist party, Santos Cerdan, in an investigation involving allegations of corruption and hiring sex workers.
In a bid to right the ship, the Socialist party announced that "soliciting, accepting or obtaining sexual acts in exchange for money" was now banned for party members, punishable by "the maximum sanction, expulsion from the party".
"If we believe a woman's body is not for sale, our party cannot allow behaviour contrary to that," Sanchez said.
"These are difficult times for everyone, without a doubt," he told party leaders at a meeting in Madrid, once again apologising for trusting those caught up in the growing scandal.
But he also reiterated his refusal to step down.
"The captain doesn't look the other way when seas get rough. He stays to steer the ship through the storm," he said.
The party also announced a leadership shake-up, replacing Cerdan as its number three official with 44-year-old lawyer Rebeca Torro.
The meeting started behind schedule after another close Sanchez ally, Francisco Salazar, who had been due to take a top leadership post, resigned.
Online news site eldiario.es said Salazar had been accused of "inappropriate behaviour" by several women who had formerly reported to him in the party.
Former transport minister Jose Luis Abalos has also been implicated in the investigation into kickbacks for public contracts.
The conservative opposition People's Party (PP) held a meeting of its own, looking to capitalise on the Socialists' stumbles.
"We're the only alternative to this state of decline," said PP leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo, calling his party the answer to Spain's divisions and "political fatigue".
"Spaniards deserve a government that doesn't lie to them, that doesn't rob them but serves them," he said.
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The Political Beat Candidate Guide: Charlotte City Council—District 3
Democratic incumbent Councilmember Tiawana Brown is facing two challengers, Joi Mayo and Warren Turner. A third challenger, Montravias King, has dropped out of the race but will remain on the ballot. The winner will face Republican James Bowers in November. District 3 is composed of the western part of Charlotte, including the airport, Steele Creek, and part of South End. For more information on this race, watch the Political Beat on August 24 at 11:30 am and 11:30 pm on WSOC and 10:30 pm on TV64. The Political Beat asked questions of each candidate in this race. Below are their unedited responses: Tiawana Deling Brown What is your occupation? Charlotte City Council D3. Why are you running? I'm running to keep a different and unique voice on City Council—a voice rooted in lived experience, truth, and community. Since the day I took my seat, there's been a shift in the atmosphere because I don't speak for politics—I speak for the people. I've brought real energy, real fight, and real transparency to the dais. None of my opponents bring what I bring. I'm running because the people deserve a champion who doesn't fold under pressure and never forgets who sent them. What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Housing costs and crime are top concerns. People can't afford to live here, and communities are impacted by rising violence. As a member of the Housing, Safety & Community Committee, I've prioritized these issues—allocating funds to grassroots groups, championing the People's Budget, and advocating for better pay for airport workers to build a safer, more affordable Charlotte. How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I will continue to engage in tough conversations and make decisions based on the voices of the constituents I serve. Displacement support is not an option—I will not support anything that harms our communities. My vote on the sales tax referendum will reflect what's best for District 3 and ensure residents are fully informed and protected. Do you support Charlotte City Council's settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? This was a closed-door matter that I'd prefer not to go into detail about. However, I will say that any matter involving taxpayer dollars should be transparent and disclosed to the public. Public trust depends on accountability, and transparency must be the standard in all financial decisions—especially those involving leadership compensation. How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? I am the People's Champ—and I've stood with the workers from day one. As an advocate for SEIU and a former airport worker myself, I know firsthand the conditions our essential airport workers face. This is not about politics for me—it's about justice, dignity, and fair treatment. The way to resolve this is through transparent and accountable conversations within the appropriate Council committee. What concerns me most is that SEIU has been a constant presence on the City Council agenda, yet there's been little to no real progress. That's unacceptable. We can't continue to overlook the people who keep our airport running. They deserve to be heard, respected, and compensated fairly. I will continue to push for real solutions and not allow this issue to be buried in bureaucracy. What sets you apart from your opponents? All my life I've had to fight—and I live as an open book with nothing to hide. I answer tough questions and lead with a voice that's different because it's real. That's earned me the title 'The People's Champ.' I meet people where they are, resolve issues, and put people over politics—always. For the record and full transparency- I meet all people where they are at- Unsheltered, Justice impacted, the developers, Business owners . the constituents and the youth- I've been told you are the People's Champ- because People are tired of Politics. That's what separates me from my opponents. Joi Mayo What is your occupation? Community Engagement Manager for an environmental nonprofit; former Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools middle school math & social studies teacher. Why are you running? I'm running for Charlotte City Council District 3 to ensure every neighborhood receives equitable investment in infrastructure, housing, and economic opportunity. I've seen firsthand how disinvestment harms communities, and I have a proven record of turning ideas into action. What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it Equitable investment across District 3. I will establish a District 3 Community Council to enable residents to identify priorities, track progress, and hold the city accountable for results. How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? Neutral. I support improving transit and investing in multi-modal options, such as light rail, buses, bike lanes, and sidewalks, but I worry about displacement. Any plan must include affordable housing protections, land banking, and community benefits agreements before I would support it. Do you support Charlotte City Council's settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? No. Taxpayer funds must be spent responsibly and transparently. Without a filed lawsuit, I would not have supported the settlement and would have required greater public disclosure for such payments. How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? As a former teacher, I believe in using a clear rubric to ensure accountability and transparency. The city should apply a rubric to all businesses and contractors working with the city or on city property, one that rewards companies meeting or exceeding the city's $23/hour minimum pay, prioritizes local businesses over those from other counties or states, and elevates minority-, women-, and small-business owners. If we hold these values dear, we must prioritize them in every partnership. What sets you apart from your opponents? More than a decade of proven community leadership, including over four years on CharMeck's Community Relations Committee, with two years as chair of its Public Relations Committee, as well as service as HOA president, coalition organizer, and nonprofit board chair, delivering real results in safety, infrastructure, and neighborhood revitalization. I bring both grassroots experience and the ability to navigate city systems effectively. Warren Turner What is your occupation? Retired North Carolina Department of Public Safety Chief Probation Officer. Why are you running? I'm running because I deeply love this city and the people who call it home. But I'm concerned about the path we're on. Rising crime, burdensome taxes, and unchecked urban sprawl are threatening the character and safety of our community. I believe we can do better, and I'm ready to serve. What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? The most pressing challenges facing our city are rising crime rates and unchecked urban sprawl, which continues to outpace the development of essential infrastructure. In an effort to address these issues, we should consider restructuring city policy around UDO's, creating a moratorium on rezonings, increasing our tree save requirements, as well as getting tough on crime. How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I've carefully reviewed the proposed 1% transit tax and remain deeply concerned about several aspects of the overall plan. While the proposal touches on critical elements that could shape the future of mobility in our region, its long-term implications demand thoughtful short-term decisions. If we don't get this right, the consequences could be felt for decades. Given the significance of this measure, I believe the public deserves more time and clarity to fully understand what's included in the package. An informed community is essential for making such a consequential decision. Do you support Charlotte City Council's settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? I won't pass judgment, as I don't have all the facts surrounding this issue. However, I do believe the situation could have been approached with greater transparency and handled differently overall. How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? I firmly believe that the city has a duty to actively listen to the needs and concerns of all its employees. This includes addressing serious issues such as reports that working conditions for airport staff may not meet safety standards. We are responsible for ensuring these concerns are thoroughly investigated and resolved. When it comes to private-sector employees, our role is not to dictate wages. Instead, we should lead by example: by providing city workers with a fair, living wage and cultivating safe, supportive, and high-quality working environments. In doing so, we set a standard that others can aspire to. What sets you apart from your opponents? As the former District 3 representative, I bring a deep understanding of city operations and council responsibilities that clearly distinguishes me from my opponents. Over eight years of dedicated service, I delivered results that reshaped Charlotte's efforts to reduce crime, expand economic development, and implement 9.2 miles of light rail infrastructure. My work spurred new housing developments along Freedom Drive, Wilkinson Boulevard, and West Boulevard, transforming these corridors into vibrant, thriving communities. I also laid a strategic blueprint for future transportation and economic growth across the district, ensuring long-term progress beyond my tenure. Partnering with federal and state leaders, I championed two HOPE VI housing projects in District 3, revitalizing neighborhoods and improving quality of life. Additionally, I introduced Charlotte's first roundabouts, modernizing our transportation network and enhancing traffic flow. This is proven leadership with a legacy of tangible results. (WATCH BELOW: 2nd Mecklenburg County chief deputy resigns in less than a year) Solve the daily Crossword
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The Political Beat Candidate Guide: Charlotte City Council—District 4
Democratic incumbent Renee Johnson is facing a challenge from Wil Russell. The winner will serve on the next Charlotte City Council. There is no opposition in November. District 4 is composed of the northeast section of Charlotte, including University City. The district stretches from The Plaza to the city limits. For more information on this race, watch this story by the Political Beat: The Political Beat asked questions of each candidate in the races. Below are their unedited responses. Renee Johnson What is your occupation? Charlotte City Councilmember (District 4) and Founder/Chief Development Officer, Triumph Services (nonprofit behavioral health & peer support). I'm also a Certified Brain Injury Specialist. Why are you running? To keep centering people over profit and protecting truly equitable housing, preventing displacement, improving infrastructure and transit, and making government more transparent and accountable. Since 2019, I've delivered results and ensured community voices drive City decisions. What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Housing stability and anti-displacement. I advanced the $100M Housing Trust Fund (including homeownership tools), fought for source-of-income protections, supported the Anti-Displacement effort, and built the District 4 Community Coalition to keep residents at the table. I'll expand preservation, strengthen tenant protections, and pair housing with infrastructure and transit investments. How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I recognize the urgent need to fund safer streets, sidewalks, and reliable transit. I'm undecided and will base my decision on clear, enforceable commitments: equitable investments in historically under-served areas, accountability and transparency, specific project lists and timelines, and measurable outcomes for safety, congestion relief, and access to jobs. I championed Charlotte's first-ever infrastructure meeting, which laid the foundation for the Strategic Mobility Plan—so I understand the importance of investing wisely and equitably in our future. Do you support Charlotte City Council's settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? I support resolving leadership matters in a way that protects taxpayers, maintains stability, and upholds accountability. Any settlement should be transparent about costs and terms, set clear expectations for leadership transitions, comply with NC statute, and strengthen public trust. My priority is accountability and fiscal responsibility. How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? The Charlotte City Council can strengthen our procurement policies to set clear standards for the vendors whom we contract, since we cannot directly control the wages of private employers. The effort to advance this conversation was blocked because there was opposition by 1 or more councilmembers; consequently, our rules require a majority vote in order to place an item on the agenda when there's opposition. That should concern all residents, because it limits debate and essentially amounts to censorship of issues that deserve a public hearing. I will continue pushing for fair standards and a more transparent, democratic process on the council. What sets you apart from your opponents? Experience, independence, and results. I fight for the anti-displacement of residents impacted by Charlotte's explosive growth, while my opponent is a developer who benefits personally from that same development. I created the District 4 Coalition, secured ASL interpretation for 132,000 hard-of-hearing residents, and championed the city's first public infrastructure meeting. As a nonprofit leader with real estate experience, I understand both economic growth and the human impact of displacement. Will Russell What is your occupation? Senior Construction Manager Why are you running? I am running for office to provide leadership and professionalism to Charlotte City Council. My goal is to serve the city and its residents by solving problems and enacting solutions. What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? I address the affordable housing crisis every day – it is at the core of what I do as a construction professional. As an affordable housing developer, I experience firsthand the barriers our current zoning policies create. These restrictive regulations prevent us from building the volume of affordable housing our communities urgently need. We must add greater flexibility to our zoning policies to allow for more diverse, higher density and cost-effective housing solutions. Housing options like duplexes, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and pocket neighborhoods will allow us to create communities when developing land. These are the types of units we, as a city, should be incentivizing developers to build. How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? As Charlotte continues to grow, it will need a transportation system that grows with it. Our bus system is not sufficient or dependable enough to meet the needs of its citizens. To produce an equitable and reliable bus system, it must provide connections between the employment centers and residential areas. It must also have travel times that, at a minimum, match the travel times of a private vehicle. To do that all existing bus routes must be reconfigured to provide cross-town connections and facilitate multiple connections throughout the routes. Additionally, the hours of operation must be the same for all routes. The transit tax will provide an income stream that will allow Charlotte to invest in building a transportation system thatwillmeet the needs of a growing city. However, income alone will not fix transportation in Charlotte. We must also create land use policies that complement and encourage appropriate development along transportation corridors. Do you support Charlotte City Council's settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? Based on the publicly available evidence, it appears that the CMPD's police chief employment status was threatened by an elected official. This could have potentially exposed the City to legal issues. Problems between elected officials and city departments should be resolved in ways that do not expose the city to potential legal actions. As a member of the city council, I would work to ensure that issues like these are resolved through proper channels and proper communication. How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? Charlotte City Council will need to work with multiple groups to help address working conditions and pay issues at Charlotte Douglas Airport. Charlotte would need to work closely with the North Carolina General Assembly to determine what authority the State will allow the City to exercise when dealing with pay and contract issues. Charlotte City Council would also need to work with airline carriers and airport businesses to help craft a solution to address the pay and working condition issues. What sets you apart from your opponents? I am the most qualified candidate for the following reasons: -vast knowledge of zoning policy, affordable housing, and construction -proven ability to collaborate with neighbors and developers to directly benefit District 4 -Will provide visionary leadership and continued advocacy for District 4 on council -minimal learning curve/ability to start addressing Charlotte's issues on day 1. (WATCH BELOW: Action 9: Man switched phone companies because of promotion, but says carrier didn't follow through) Solve the daily Crossword
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The Political Beat Candidate Guide: Charlotte City Council—District 6
District 6 is an open seat. Republicans Krista Bokhari and Sary Chakra are running. The winner will face Democrat Kimberly Owens in November. Bokhari and Chakra did not respond to our candidate guide. We will update this guide with their answers if they submit them. District 6 includes the southern part of the city, including SouthPark. Krista Bokhari What is your occupation? Marketing Director Why are you running? I'm running to be a strong voice for District 6 and help put an end to one-party rule in Charlotte. We need to stop the backroom deals, restore balance, and bring a much-needed different perspective to the conversation. We are losing good officers due to low morale, pay and benefit shortfalls while city leaders secretly hand out big payouts behind closed doors. Neighborhoods are being reshaped while the community is begging for it to stop. All the while, basic services like traffic safety, storm drainage, and street repairs keep getting ignored. Families in District 6 pay some of the highest taxes in the city. But what are we getting in return? Our most dangerous intersections are put on years-long waiting lists. My husband fought to bring our tax dollars back to the District but I plan to take this to the next level by collaborating with the neighborhood leaders and SPAN to create a District 6 infrastructure pipeline to collect and track the infrastructure needs in the district and ensure they are being addressed. Charlotte is on the same dangerous path we've seen in other big cities where one party controls everything and no one is held accountable. That's how you get broken systems, unchecked corruption, and decisions that hurt everyday people. I'm running to stop that from happening here in Charlotte. What is the most important issue and how do you plan to address it? Crime, congestion, and crumbling infrastructure are the issues residents feel every day, but the root cause that makes all of them worse is a lack of transparency and accountability in the City Council. Too many decisions are made behind closed doors by a handful of insiders, while the public is left in the dark. I will address this by always telling the truth, even when it costs me, Speaking out on the Jennings payout likely cost me the interim District 6 appointment, but I refused to stay silent. I understand how the Council operates, and I'll respectfully challenge dysfunction head-on. I'll advocate to disclose all settlements, limit closed-door sessions, and work to establish a citizen audit board. If a deal isn't active litigation or a competitive negotiation, it should be public. Once finalized, every detail should be released immediately. Transparency can't be a buzzword, it has to be a practice. That's how we'll fix the broken systems holding Charlotte back. How are you voting on the sales tax increase referendum for transit and why? I'm cautiously optimistic about supporting it, but will be watching what happens from now until November closely. I'm thankful to the legislature for requiring road funding and maintaining local expenditures, but we must ensure transparency and accountability. We are asking for billions of dollars without a comprehensive plan. I know how important a transformational investment here is for Charlotte, but we must ensure it is done correctly. I won't support it if it becomes another backroom deal over the next 3 months benefiting special interests instead of all of Charlotte. We need to make sure all of Charlotte sees transit improvements. We also need to make sure our leaders are leveraging the taxes we have already paid. We have had leadership visit the Capitol but for some reason no one is pursuing the Federal support available to us. I want to change that for our City. Do you support Charlotte City Council's settlement with CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings? Why or why not? No. The secret payout was wrong and eroded trust. The Police Chief had no case. His very same ethics complaint was dismissed just 6 months prior. It was pushed through just days after my husband left Council, because with him gone a few leaders thought they could get away with it. I'll be a voice for transparency and fight to end the fear-driven groupthink that led to this betrayal of the public. What the community should be even more concerned about is how many of the current leadership treated the few council representatives who questioned the payout. This is why it is imperative we vote for checks and balances on this council. How should Charlotte City Council address working conditions and pay issues raised by the SEIU at Charlotte Douglas International Airport? While Charlotte City Council does not have the legal authority to directly regulate wage rates or workplace conditions for private contractors at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the current decision-making process (where the mayor and a handful of council members blocked a committee discussion) only amplifies frustration and distrust in affected workers and the broader community. Under the Wage and Hour Act the state preemption limits local control over contractor labor standards. That reality means council members cannot impose binding wage rules. That said, the refusal to refer the SEIU‑backed CASE ordinance to a committee signals a concerning pattern of decisions 'baked' behind closed doors without meaningful public conversation. A council committee is precisely where complex issues (like airport contracts, worker safety, training standards, and vendor selection criteria) should be debated transparently, not dismissed outright in a final vote. We also must protect the CLT airport and the region's economic engine, while doing so with the transparency that builds trust we are lacking in our community. What sets you apart from your opponents? I'm the only candidate with the experience to provide balance of perspective and checks on one party rule. I have first-hand knowledge of the needs of the district and city operations and a proven record of community service working side-by-side with neighbors solving real issues. I understand the dynamics of the City Council and how it operates behind the scenes. I will challenge the status quo, speak plainly about unethical behavior every time I see it, and put our families, not political agendas, at the center of my decisions. Sary Chakra did not respond to our requests for answers in the candidate guide. For more information on this race, watch the Political Beat on August 24 at 11:30 am and 11:30 pm on WSOC and 10:30 pm on TV64. 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