Spain's ruling Socialists suffered massive losses in local elections Sunday. Voters punished the government for the poor economy, tough austerity measures and Europe's highest unemployment rate.
The election came against the backdrop of snowballing sit-ins filling Spanish cities. The protesters want greater citizen participation in the political process.
Madrid's central square, Puerta del Sol, has become an urban encampment — with tents, chairs, couches and mattresses under blue tarpaulins.
