Image: from Alexandre Gazur X@AlexandreLGazur
By Open Chronicle International Affairs Desk with Agencies
LISBON — Sunday, January 18, 2026 — Portugal is entering uncharted political waters tonight as results from the first round of the presidential election confirm a historic runoff between Socialist candidate António José Seguro and far-right contender André Ventura.
A Night of Firsts
For the first time in four decades, no candidate secured the absolute majority (more than 50%) required to win in the first round. With 95% of constituencies counted, the results show a clear but polarized divide:
-
António José Seguro (PS-backed): 30.6%
-
André Ventura (Chega): 24.2%
-
João Cotrim de Figueiredo (Liberal): 15,5%
The outcome represents a dramatic shift for the country, marking the first time a far-right candidate has ever reached the second round of a presidential race in Portugal’s democratic history.
Defeating “Extremism”
Throughout the evening, António José Seguro framed the upcoming second round as a battle for the soul of Portuguese democracy. He positioned himself as the only candidate capable of stopping Ventura’s “extremism” and issued an impassioned plea for “all democrats” to unite behind his campaign to protect the country’s institutional stability.
“The choice is now clear between a Portugal of consensus and inclusion, or a path of division,” Seguro told supporters in Lisbon.
Ventura’s Confidence
Despite trailing Seguro, André Ventura expressed immense confidence. Polling throughout the week had suggested he might even lead the first round, and while that did not materialize, his 24.2% share is a record-breaking performance for his party, Chega.
Speaking from his home city of Caldas da Rainha, Ventura urged the Portuguese people to reject “complacency” and promised to “put some order” into the country if elected. He also called on other right-wing parties to avoid obstructing his path to Belém.
The Role of the Prime Minister
The political stakes are further complicated by the position of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro. His minority right-wing government currently relies on Ventura’s party for support in Parliament to pass key legislation.
Montenegro has stated he will not offer any official advice or endorsement for the second round, a move that critics suggest reflects the delicate balancing act he must perform to keep his government afloat.
What Happens Next?
While the Portuguese presidency is largely ceremonial, the incumbent holds significant reserve powers, including the ability to dissolve Parliament and call for new elections during times of crisis.
The two finalists will now embark on a high-intensity three-week campaign. The second round is scheduled for February 8, a date that will determine whether Portugal continues its tradition of moderate leadership or takes a sharp turn toward the populist right.