José Manuel Bermúdez will run for Mayor of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the May 2027 elections. The Coalition Canaria (CC) candidate aims to reaffirm his tenure by completing key projects such as the investment plan for local neighbourhoods, the openings of CaixaForum, and the rehabilitation of Teatro Guimerá. He believes his four terms as mayor illustrate effective governance, but if he fails to secure a majority, he won’t rule out coalition talks—except with the PSOE led by Patricia Hernández.
Bermúdez explained his decision to run again, stating, “There are still things I want to finish. I want to not just begin but also complete a city project that is due to finalise in the next term.” His key projects include the Urban Impulse Plan, which will invest €130 million in infrastructure, the launch of the first CaixaForum in the Canary Islands—with over 80% of its activities free—and the renovation of the oldest theatre in the Canary Islands, along with the dismantling of the local refinery.
After four terms, when asked if he aspires to follow in the footsteps of mayors from La Matanza or Adeje, he responded, “My goal is to complete the project that began in 2011.” He noted that he has turned a €70 million debt into a financially sound institution with significant investments.
Regarding new offerings for citizens, he mentioned that while an electoral program is still in development, he plans to keep taxes low and stimulate the economy. Unemployment has decreased from nearly 30,000 to around 16,000, and there are over 7,000 companies in Santa Cruz. He aims to enhance social services while addressing challenges in traffic and parking.
Mobility remains a pressing concern for his administration. Bermúdez is set to inaugurate a new traffic control centre and improve public space to facilitate transport. He has plans to purchase 60 buses, with a focus on making public transit more attractive.
Polls suggest the PSOE is a competitive force, but Bermúdez believes he’s the only candidate capable of preventing a PSOE administration. He stated, “I’m the only one who can stop the PSOE in the capital. I have no plans to ally with Patricia Hernández.”
On potential alliances, he acknowledged he could work with various parties, including Podemos and the PP, on local issues. However, he rejected collaborations with Vox, disagreeing with their centralised state model and stances on LGBT rights.
Bermúdez believes his party, CC, is not looking to form a national government pact, as they aim to represent Canary interests in Madrid. He criticized the Sánchez administration’s performance and expressed confidence in his electoral chances, noting successful projects during his current term.
As for his electoral list, he acknowledged appreciation for Bolorino Armani’s return to support the campaign but clarified that decisions on candidates rest with the party assembly. He prefers to maintain a consistent team, though changes may occur.
During recent visits to neighbourhoods, residents have shared their concerns, which Bermúdez finds reasonable. He feels positive sentiments despite the ongoing needs for improvement.
Recognising the campaign’s harshness, he anticipates misinformation spread via social media and asks citizens to remain vigilant.
The Electoral Board has cautioned him regarding the use of municipal communications after a PSOE complaint. He accepted this while reinforcing that he aimed to counter falsehoods circulated by political opponents.
Ongoing judicial challenges concerning municipal ordinances, including a waste tax, are also anticipated, which could affect previous decisions. Bermúdez is also working on re-establishing Unipol in the city for enhanced public safety.
When asked about the Low Emission Zone ordinance, he acknowledged legal compliance while attempting to implement it sensibly, though he wouldn’t be surprised if it faced judicial rejection.
Finally, reflecting on his 13 years as mayor, he stated, “My goal remains to improve Santa Cruz. It’s not about power, but about making a difference. The residents will ultimately judge our legacy.”
