Portugal's Election Campaign Begins Amid Corruption Scandals

A woman holds up a red carnation, symbol of the Portuguese 1974 revolution that restored democracy in Portugal, during a protest against the country's housing crisis, in Lisbon, Portugal, Jan.

The official two-week campaign period before Portugal’s early general election began on Sunday, with the country’s two moderate mainstream parties once again expected to collect the most votes. The center-left Socialist Party and center-right Social Democratic Party have long dominated the political landscape, with a populist party potentially influencing the outcome of the upcoming election.

Corruption scandals have marred the political scene, leading to public disillusionment with the established parties. These scandals have coincided with Portugal's upcoming 50th anniversary of democracy, following the Carnation Revolution in 1974.

The election follows the collapse of a Socialist government last November due to a corruption investigation. Prime Minister António Costa faced scrutiny, although he has not been accused of any crime. Additionally, a former Socialist prime minister is set to stand trial for corruption allegations.

Corruption scandals have led to public disillusionment with established parties.

Portugal's two mainstream parties, Socialist and Social Democratic, dominate the political landscape.

The upcoming election follows the collapse of a Socialist government due to corruption allegations.

The Social Democratic Party has also faced corruption accusations, prompting resignations.

Chega!, a populist party focusing on anti-corruption efforts, has gained support.

Alliances with smaller parties may be necessary to secure a parliamentary majority post-election.

The Social Democratic Party has also faced corruption accusations, with recent scandals prompting the resignation of key officials. The campaign has highlighted issues such as a housing crisis, low wages, and healthcare challenges.

While topics like climate change, migration, and religious differences have not dominated the campaign, a populist party named Chega! has gained traction by focusing on anti-corruption efforts. Led by André Ventura, the party has seen a significant increase in support and could play a crucial role in the election outcome.

The potential need for alliances with smaller parties to secure a parliamentary majority adds uncertainty to the post-election scenario. The Socialist Party may seek partnerships with other left-wing parties, while the Social Democrats could consider collaborating with Chega! to gain power.

The leaders of the main parties, Pedro Nuno Santos and Luís Montenegro, bring their own political backgrounds and experiences to the election. Santos, representing the Socialist Party, has faced controversies in his previous role, while Montenegro, leading the Social Democrats, has a long history as a lawmaker.

As Portugal prepares for the upcoming election on March 10, the political landscape remains dynamic, with corruption, governance, and policy challenges at the forefront of public discourse.