Voters in Portugal electing new president, could be far-right winner

Portugal is holding a presidential election on January 18, 2026, with 11 candidates vying for the largely symbolic role. A key development is the potential for Andre Ventura, leader of the far-right Chega party, to reach the run-off election on February 8. Polls suggest Ventura could win the first round but lose in the second. This election marks a possible shift in Portuguese politics, as it could be the first time in 40 years that no candidate secures over 50% of the vote in the initial ballot. The winner will succeed Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, whose two-term limit has expired. Ventura's rise reflects Chega's growing popularity, fueled by anti-immigration rhetoric, making it the second-largest party in parliament.

Portugal held a presidential election on Sunday with 11 candidates vying for the position. Due to the large field, a run-off election next month is likely. Front-runner André Ventura, leader of the far-right Chega party, is poised to potentially make gains for the far-right in Europe. Ventura's campaign has focused on limiting immigration, a key issue as foreign workers have become more visible in Portugal. Nearly 11 million people were eligible to vote to replace outgoing President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, who has served two terms. Results are expected late in the day.