Following the recent legislative elections held on May 18, 2025, Portugal’s far-right Chega party has officially been confirmed as the leading opposition party, securing 60 out of 230 seats in the national parliament.

The electoral authority finalized the results after accounting for overseas ballots, which granted Chega two additional seats, while Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s Democratic Alliance coalition maintained its status as the largest party, with 91 seats.

Chega's rise to prominence marks a significant shift in Portuguese politics, escalating from a mere one seat in parliament six years ago to controlling over a quarter of legislative seats today.

The ultranationalist party’s campaign successfully resonated with voters, addressing sentiments of dissatisfaction with traditional parties and framing them as corrupt and ineffective in tackling critical issues such as low wages, the housing crisis, and rising immigration.

Particularly strong support for Chega came from expatriates in countries such as France, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, and Brazil.

Many voters were mobilized by the party’s promise to improve economic conditions to facilitate the return of emigrants to Portugal.

Chega leader André Ventura, in a speech to supporters, emphasized his commitment to a “smooth and healthy regime change” and suggested that only those benefiting from the status quo had reason to fear his party’s ascent.

The legislative election results marked a notable setback for the once-dominant Socialist Party, which experienced losses particularly in southern Portugal, regions where it previously held strong majorities since the 1974 Carnation Revolution.

The Socialists had found themselves in turmoil following the resignation of former Prime Minister António Costa amid scandal and his subsequent appointment as president of the European Council.

In light of the electoral defeat, the Socialist Party is set to elect former Interior Minister José Luís Carneiro as its new leader this Saturday.

Carneiro, noted for his relative absence of scandal during his tenure, is expected to adopt a position aimed at fostering collaboration with Montenegro and countering Chega’s influence at the national level.

The political climate remains dynamic, with local elections scheduled for this fall.

Analysts anticipate further gains for Chega, which could potentially win control of up to 21 city administrations, including key municipalities such as Sintra, Montijo, Vila Franca de Xira, and Alenquer, traditionally governed by left-leaning parties since the end of the Estado Novo dictatorship.