Spain forms progressive coalition government

By Alyssa McMurtry

MADRID (AA) - With historically slim margins, Spain’s parliament on Tuesday elected a government led by socialist Pedro Sanchez.

This will be Spain’s first-ever coalition government.

Its left-wing leaders have pledged to open dialogue with Catalan separatists, raise taxes on the highest income earners, and boost social programs.

The vote ends nine months of political deadlock triggered by two inconclusive elections last year, including one last November.