Antonio José Seguro wins Portugal presidential runoff against far right

Portugal’s moderate Socialist Antonio José Seguro won the presidency on Sunday, defeating far-right challenger André Ventura in a runoff vote that confirmed polls pointing to a decisive victory despite weather disruptions and voter fatigue.

With nearly 70% of ballots counted, Seguro secured around 64% of the vote, while Ventura trailed on roughly 36%, according to partial official results and exit polls. Two major exit polls earlier placed Seguro’s support in the 67%–73% range.

Voting took place after days of severe storms that forced three municipal councils in southern and central Portugal to postpone polling by a week. The delay affected about 37,000 registered voters — roughly 0.3% of the electorate — and was not expected to alter the final result.

Turnout was broadly in line with the first round held on 18 January, when a crowded field of 11 candidates drove the highest participation in 15 years. As conditions improved on Sunday, voters continued to cast ballots in Lisbon and other major cities, though some expressed frustration with the political choices.

“I don’t think turnout is lower because of the bad weather,” said 77-year-old Lisbon voter Aires Loureiro. “Many people are simply not interested. They don’t really identify with the candidates.”

Seguro’s victory was bolstered by endorsements from prominent conservatives after the first round, amid concerns over Ventura’s populist rhetoric and what critics describe as authoritarian tendencies. Seguro has campaigned as a “modern and moderate” left-wing figure, pledging to act as a stabilising force and defender of democratic institutions.

Portugal’s presidency is largely ceremonial but carries important constitutional powers, including the ability to dissolve parliament under certain circumstances. Ventura had pledged to pursue a more “interventionist” presidency and expand the role’s authority.

Despite his defeat, Ventura appears to have strengthened his political standing. His anti-establishment Chega party became Portugal’s second-largest parliamentary force last year, and analysts say Sunday’s result underscores the growing influence of the far right in Portuguese politics.

In Lisbon, voter Rute Trindade, 35, said she hoped the election would prompt greater focus on crisis preparedness following criticism of the government’s handling of recent storms.

“A president doesn’t have the same power as a prime minister or parliament,” she said, “but they can still make a difference.”

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