Portugal’s center-right Democratic Alliance, led by Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, secured the most seats in Sunday’s snap election but fell short of the 116 needed for a majority, winning 86 of 230 seats with 32.1% of the vote. The result leaves the country with a hung parliament for the third time in under four years.
The Socialist Party trailed with 23.38% and 58 seats, while the far-right Chega party surged to 22.56%, also capturing 58 seats. Founded in 2019, Chega went from a fringe movement to a major parliamentary bloc in just six years, tapping into voter frustration over housing shortages, a strained healthcare system, and recurring corruption scandals.
Immigration policy, the cost-of-living crisis, and housing dominated the campaign debate. Surveys indicated rising concerns over political stability and economic well-being, reflecting widespread unease across generations and regions.
After President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa dissolved parliament in March, the snap vote on May 18 marked the country’s third early election since 2020. With Montenegro ruling out an alliance with Chega, and the president opposing far-right participation in government, forging a stable coalition will be a major challenge.
As Portugal faces pressing economic and social issues, young citizens and business leaders alike are watching to see if traditional parties can bridge divides or if new alliances will reshape Lisbon’s political landscape.
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Portugal's Democratic Alliance wins election, falls short of majority
cgtn.com
