Socialist leader to present new government bid March 1

MADRID (AP):

Spain's Parliament said Socialist party leader Pedro Sanchez's plan to form a government has been bumped forward a day to March 1.

Sanchez will present the plans for debate by parliament and face a vote of confidence in the 350-seat Lower House on March 2, which he must win with a majority.

If he fails, a second vote takes place within two days, requiring him to get more votes for him than against him.

That's a lower bar, allowing parties to abstain and let a rival take power in return for concessions.

If a deadlock remains after two months, King Felipe VI calls a new election.

The Socialists won 90 seats in the inconclusive December 20 election and are trying to persuade other parties to support Sanchez.