Portugal faces potential runoff as far-right leads presidential vote

Portuguese citizens are casting their ballots in a pivotal presidential election this Sunday, with polls indicating a strong chance of a second-round runoff. The contest highlights the surging influence of the far-right Chega party, whose leader Andre Ventura is leading in recent surveys.

Key Contenders and Poll Numbers

With current President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa term-limited, a field of 11 candidates is vying for the role. According to a mid-week RTP News poll, Ventura holds a narrow lead with approximately 24% of the vote. He is closely followed by Antonio Jose Seguro of the center-left Socialist Party at 23%. Other significant candidates include Luis Marques Mendes from the governing Social Democratic Party (PSD) and Joao Cotrim de Figueiredo of the Liberal Initiative.

Historical Context and Campaign Issues

A second round in Portugal's presidential elections is a rare event, having occurred only once before in 1986. The campaign trail has been dominated by pressing national issues including social inequality, a housing crisis, low wages, and recent government policies on migrant rights and labor laws. The election is being watched across Europe as a gauge of political trends.

Broader Implications for Portugal

Andre Ventura's Chega, which became the main opposition party after parliamentary elections last May, seeks a decisive victory. However, political analysts suggest that while Ventura may win the first round, securing an outright majority in a potential February 8 runoff remains a significant challenge. Nearly 11 million registered voters, including a large diaspora, are eligible to participate in this crucial decision for Portugal's future.