Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Portugal Heads to Presidential Runoff
Portugal is having a very close presidential election.
There are three main candidates: Antonio Jose Segundo from the Socialist party, Andre Ventura from the far-right Chega party, and Joao Cotrim de Figueiredo from the right-wing Liberal Initiative party.
The far-right Chega party has become more popular recently, and this is the first time in a long time that a runoff might be needed.
The president in Portugal has some important powers, like dissolving parliament.
Most people think Ventura might not win in a runoff because many voters don't like him.
The election is happening on Sunday, and the results will come out that night.
The runoff is tentatively scheduled for February 8.
Portugal's presidential election is heading to a runoff between Socialist Antonio Jose Seguro and far-right leader Andre Ventura.
Exit polls and partial results show Seguro leading with 30-35% of the vote, while Ventura is at 26.9%.
Joao Cotrim de Figueiredo of the Liberal Initiative party is likely in third place with 16.3%-21% of the vote.
The runoff is tentatively scheduled for February 8, with Ventura facing a high rejection rate of over 60%.
The presidency in Portugal is largely ceremonial but holds key powers, including dissolving parliament and vetoing legislation.
- Who
- Portuguese voters
- What
- Presidential election
- When
- Sunday, January 18 (first round), February 8 (runoff)
- Where
- Portugal
- Why
- To elect a new president with some key powers, including dissolving parliament and vetoing legislation.
- Eligible Voters
- 11 million
- Polling Station Closure
- 7 p.m. (1900 GMT)
- Exit Polls Expected
- 8 p.m.
- Results Release
- During the night
- Top Candidates
- Antonio Jose Segundo, Andre Ventura, Jiao Cot rim de Figurehead
- Cheap Party's Parliamentary Vote
- 22.8%
- Ventura's Rejection Rate
- More than 60%
- Runoff Date
- February 8 (tentative)
Sources
Portugal votes in tight presidential race with far right poised to reach runoff
Portugal votes in tight presidential race with far right poised to reach runoff
Socialist, far-right candidate head for Portugal’s presidential runoff
