Santa Cruz de La Palma councilman sparks controversy over comments on motherhood

During a municipal plenary session in Santa Cruz de La Palma, PSOE councilman Manuel Ángel Garrido sparked controversy by directing personal comments toward PP councilwoman Saray González regarding her recent motherhood.

Garrido suggested there is an “erótica del poder” (erotics of power), implying that the decision to have a child might be linked to political status. He argued that parents with newborns have their focus on the child rather than the City Council, suggesting that the “erotics of power could wait a little bit” until one is no longer in public office. He further stated that he would not dictate what individuals do in their homes or beds.

The remarks have drawn criticism for targeting a female representative's personal life and motherhood, contrasting with institutional discourses on gender equality and work-life balance.