Seguro and Ventura compete in the 2nd round

Who are the candidates running for president?

The dispute is between António José Seguro, from the Socialist Party, and André Ventura, from the Chega party. Safe, left-wing, he presents himself as moderate and a “defender of democracy” to attract centrist voters. Ventura, on the right, gained prominence with a strong speech against illegal immigration and corruption, promising a break with the country’s traditional political system.

What do voting intention polls say?

Polls indicate a comfortable advantage for the left-wing candidate, António José Seguro. A recent survey shows that he could obtain 67% of the votes, against 33% for André Ventura. Even when undecided voters are disregarded, the projection still favors Seguro with 56% of voting intentions, showing a favorable scenario for the socialist candidate.

Why is this election considered historic?

This is the first time in more than 40 years that the Portuguese presidential election has been decided in a second round. Furthermore, André Ventura’s arrival in the final contest consolidates the rise of his party, Chega, as one of the main forces of the conservative and nationalist right in the country, challenging the more traditional parties.

What are each candidate’s main proposals?

Seguro focuses his campaign on defending democracy and maintaining universal public services, such as health and social security, rejecting privatizations. Ventura, on the other hand, proposes drastic changes, such as constitutional reform, life imprisonment for certain crimes, chemical castration for sexual offenders and stricter immigration control.

How can external factors affect voting?

Strong storms hit the country and can impact the election, mainly increasing abstention, that is, the number of voters who do not show up to vote. The situation is so serious that at least three cities postponed the vote, although the date was maintained in the rest of the national territory. The concern is that bad weather will discourage voters from going to the polls.