Since the last quarter of 2008，both Spain and Portugal have suffered from economic recession. To get out of the economic downturn as soon as possible，both countries adopted more relaxed fiscal policies and economic bailout packages，which were proved effective. On April 7 2009，the Spanish Prime Minister announced a major cabinet reshuffle aimed at adjusting and clarifying the focus of government policies and at enhancing its government’s credibility. On the side of Portugal，with the major opposition parties including the Social Democratic Party and two extreme-left parties having increased strength on the eve of national and local elections，it will be decisive for the future political situation in Portugal whether the ruling Socialist Party can win a second term by an absolute majority.