guese history since the Carnation Revolution and the first in 40 years, underscoring heightened political fragmentation following a crowded first round in January where no candidate achieved a majority. António José Seguro, the experienced Social Democrat-turned-Socialist, entered the final round with strong cross party endorsements and a reputation as a stabilising force. Polls throughout the campaign indicated that Seguro could secure roughly twice as many votes as his challenger and exit polls are expected later this evening. Secure’s platform emphasises continuity, institutional unity and cooperation with Portugal’s current minority government. In contrast, André Ventura, leader of the Chega (Enough) party has campaigned on a controversial agenda of populist reform, focusing heavily on immigration, national identity, and anti-establishment rhetoric. His presence in the runoff alone represents the most substantial showing yet by a far-right force in modern Portuguese politics. The vote comes on the heels of significant storm damage across the country, with authorities forced to adapt plans in several municipalities affected by flooding and infrastructure strain in recent days. Local electoral officials maintained that, despite these disruptions, ballot access across most precincts is proceeding without major incident. While the Portuguese presidency is largely ceremonial, it carries key constitutional responsibilities including the power to veto legislation and dissolve parliament an “atomic bomb” provision that can force early elections if invoked. Analysts suggest the outcome will influence Portugal’s broader political landscape, particularly after a period of elevated instability marked by multiple general elections in recent years. Outgoing president Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa constrained by term limits after ten years in office, will hand over to his successor in March, rounding out a transition that has drawn intense national and international scrutiny. Official results from the 8 February runoff are expected to begin trickling in after polls close with early projections anticipated later this evening. Political commentators are watching not only who wins, but the scale of support each candidate receives particularly for Ventura, whose presence in the runoff underscores growing currents in European political discourse. As ballots are counted and results unfold, Portugal stands poised at a crossroads between moderation and populism, with implications that could reverberate through Lisbon’s political institutions for years to come.