Record Surge of Brazilian Voters in Lisbon Forces Change of Polling Locations for Upcoming Elections

In Lisbon, nearly 60,000 Brazilian voters have registered to participate in the upcoming presidential elections in Brazil, leading to a necessary shift in polling locations, according to the Brazilian Consul General, Alessandro Warley Candeas.

Currently, there are 58,000 registered voters, with estimates suggesting that this number will comfortably reach 60,000 by October 2026. This significant increase means that the traditional voting location at the Faculty of Law in Lisbon will no longer suffice, as it did not accommodate the growing number of voters during the last elections in 2022.

Candeas stated, “As the volume of voters has increased, it has become insufficient,” highlighting that adjustments are being considered to ensure a smooth electoral process. The consulate is exploring alternatives, including possibly splitting the electoral event between the Faculty of Law and another venue in Lisbon's University City.

This surge in registrations represents a notable rise from 45,273 voters in the last presidential elections in 2022, which had already seen a 100% increase from the previous elections in 2018. The increase in registered voters necessitated an expansion of voting tables from 28 to 58 in 2022, although long lines still formed, prompting last-minute decisions to extend voting hours to accommodate all immigrants waiting to vote.

Lisbon has become the largest electoral college outside Brazil, surpassing other major locations, including the United States. In Portugal, Brazil maintains its Consulate General in Lisbon, along with additional consulates in Porto and Faro.

Candeas is also focusing on targeted re-registration efforts through social media to reach those who have not voted in the last three elections, as failing to re-register could result in losing their voting rights. With four months of leadership at the consulate, he is committed to supporting the Brazilian community in Portugal and maintaining connections with local authorities and media.