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Portugal: Socialist Seguro and Far-Right Ventura Head to Presidential Runoff

Published January 19, 2026, 06:16
Portugal: Socialist Seguro and Far-Right Ventura Head to Presidential Runoff

According to exit polls, moderate socialist António José Seguro and far-right candidate André Ventura are expected to compete in the second round of the Portuguese presidential election. Seguro is projected to receive around 30%-35% of the vote, while Ventura is estimated to have 19.9%-24.1%. João Cotrim de Figueiredo, leader of the Liberal Initiative party, comes in third with 16.3%-21%. The second round is scheduled for February 8th. The presidency in Portugal is primarily ceremonial, but the President holds significant powers, including the ability to dissolve Parliament and veto legislation. André Ventura leads the anti-establishment and anti-immigration Chega party, which has increased its strength in Parliament. The rise of the far-right has influenced the country's policies, particularly in immigration. However, polls predict that Ventura will be defeated in the second round, as he faces a high rejection rate exceeding 60% of the electorate. The outcome of the election will determine Portugal's political course in the coming years.