Catholic Group Election Rigged? Far-Right Shift Continues

The Catholic Association of Propagandists (ACdP), once a pillar of Spain's Christian democracy, is holding elections on Saturday amid fraud allegations and a clear far-right turn. After eight years, President Alfonso Bullón de Mendoza is stepping down. He led the group’s shift toward ultra-conservatism, turning its media outlet *El Debate* and the CEU university into a hub for global far-right figures. Under his watch, the ACdP awarded its Medal of Honor to Argentina's Javier Milei and hosted guests like Trump ideologue Kevin Rogers and Spain's Santiago Abascal. The group also welcomed ultra-conservative bishops and cardinals opposed to Pope Francis. Bullón de Mendoza used his farewell speech to attack Spain’s Democratic Memory Law, calling it “absurd” and comparing the government to “Taliban.” He also defended aggressive campaigns against abortion and gay marriage. Now, the ACdP is set to elect Josep Massip as its new leader. He is the only official candidate, backed “unanimously” by the National Council. However, a complaint filed on May 29 with the Spanish Bishops' Conference (CEE) alleges five irregularities, including coercion and abuse of power to favor Massip. The CEE investigated and dismissed the case. Notably, the CEE’s current compliance director is Alfredo Dagnino, a former ACdP president. Despite the complaint, Massip secured 213 endorsements, far ahead of his three rivals. Critics warn of possible infiltration by the secretive ultra-Catholic group El Yunque and financial troubles at the CEU university and *El Debate*. Bullón de Mendoza made clear: “The change of president will not mean a change of direction in this house.”