The current mayor of Zaragoza aspires to govern all of Aragon. After four years at the head of the city, with which he is "reasonably satisfied", the popular Jorge Azcón (Zaragossa, 1973) confirmed his candidacy for the presidency of the community in December. A career politician, he aspires to unseat the socialist Javier Lambán and to rule alone, although he does not close himself to pacts.
Why does he want to preside over the community?
After 16 years of leftist governments in Zaragoza, we have changed the political sign of the city and also its face. We can do the same throughout Aragon.
Opponents accuse him of a profile that is very typical of the capital and that he does not know the territory.
These types of policies that seek to pit those from the coast against those from inland Spain, those from the cities against those from the villages... are simplistic and populist policies that portray themselves. I think it's a bug and I won't play this.
The polls point to a tight result and no majorities. How do you plan to avoid the re-election of Lambán?
Our polls say that the PP will be the first political force in Aragon and that there is an alternative political majority. All those who joined Lambán have problems: the PAR is disintegrating, CHA has lost its identity and Podemos is looking for a space at the end of the legislature that it has not achieved during the four years of Government.
Would you agree with Vox?
We aspire to have a government with a sufficient majority and not have any other party in the government. At the City Council we have agreed plenary sessions and budgets, but my goal is for there to be a single PP government based on a sufficient majority.
He usually identifies Lambán with Sánchez, despite their differences. Do you think this idea will catch on?
Pedro Sánchez was in Zaragoza in February, and I heard that Lambán declared his loyalty to him. His problem is that sometimes he says some things, but votes the opposite. The facts are more important, and the reality is that no one can put forward a single case in which Lambán voted differently from Sánchez.
What is your project for Aragon?
It must have a more important role in Spain than it currently has. There are opportunities to take advantage of for the creation of employment and wealth or the attraction of companies.
What would change?
From taxation to healthcare. We need to reform the tax system in line with the country's inflation problems. We pay a lot more in taxes and get a lot less in return than the rest.
Any plans to improve relations with Catalonia?
An equal to equal dialogue. Our goal must be to seek agreements, not confrontation.
Also with the pro-independence forces?
You can always talk within the law. I think that the pro-independence forces have a serious problem with legality and with the Spanish Constitution, which is that they do not respect it. But I have proven that I am able to talk to everyone.
What will he do if he doesn't get the presidency?
I consider being president of Aragon, that's what I work for.
