Kickoff for Portugal's Legislative Campaign: Key Debate and Election Insights

Official Campaign Launch for Legislative Elections

The electoral campaign for the upcoming legislative elections in Portugal officially begins today, highlighted by a crucial debate among all parliamentary parties. This event is set for 21:30 and will be broadcast live on RTP1 and RTP3 from the Nova School of Business and Economics in Carcavelos, Lisbon.

Election Countdown

Although the pre-campaign has already been underway, the official campaign period commences today, just 14 days before the elections scheduled for May 18. The day will be marked by a televised debate featuring the eight leaders of the parties currently represented in parliament, moderated by journalist Carlos Daniel.

Party Activities Across the Country

On this significant day, the three major parties—AD (Social Democratic Party), PS (Socialist Party), and Chega—will initiate direct engagement with voters in northern Portugal.

• AD, led by Luís Montenegro, will be in Bragança in the morning at the Feira das Cantarinha, followed by an afternoon in Barcelos, Braga at the Festa das Cruzes.
• The Socialist Party, led by Pedro Nuno Santos, will start in Viana do Castelo before moving to Guimarães in Braga for voter interaction.
• André Ventura, leader of Chega, will focus on campaigning in the Guard district.

Other Parties' Engagements

Other political groups will also be active:

• IL (Liberal Initiative) will visit Setúbal, engaging in community activities, while Livre has scheduled a campaign event at Mercado da Vila in Cascais at 10:00.
• CDU will hold a lunch in Vila Franca de Xira before joining the March of Labor in Seixal.
• The Bloco de Esquerda will be in Almada, featuring discussions with left-wing representatives from Finland, Spain, and France.
• Inês de Sousa Real, leader of PAN, will also be in Cascais.

Upcoming Elections

The legislative elections will take place on May 18, following the resignation of the PSD/CDS-PP government led by Luís Montenegro, after a confidence motion was rejected by parliament on March 11. A total of 21 parties and/or coalitions are competing in these elections.