The political force that has garnered the most votes in the Lisbon constituency, the largest in the country, has historically been the winner of national elections, with only two exceptions: 2002 and 2024.
Overview of Lisbon's Electoral Landscape
With approximately 1.9 million registered voters, the Lisbon constituency elects over one-fifth of the deputies to the Assembly of the Republic, totaling 48 out of 230. This district has seen a diverse range of political forces secure mandates over the years.
Historical Voting Trends
Since the April 25 revolution, there have been 18 legislative elections, including the 1975 elections for the Constituent Assembly. The Socialist Party (PS) has been the most voted force in Lisbon 11 times, while the Social Democratic Party (PSD) has won seven times, either independently or in coalition with CDS-PP and/or PPM.
The Communist Party (PCP) held the third position until 2005, with other parties like the PRD and CDS-PP appearing in the following years. More recently, Chega has emerged as a significant third force in 2022 and 2024.
Notable Exceptions in Election Outcomes
In 2002, the PSD, led by Durão Barroso, won the national elections, but the PS was the most voted in Lisbon, gaining two additional mandates. This pattern repeated in 2024, where, despite the PSD-led Aliança Democrática winning nationally, the PS, led by Pedro Nuno Santos, achieved more votes in Lisbon.
Record Voting Results
The best result for the PS in Lisbon occurred in 1975, where it garnered over 583,000 votes, representing 45.98% of the total. The PSD's peak was in 1987, with over 564,000 votes, or 45.82%. Throughout the years, left-wing parties have often dominated the votes in this constituency, even during periods of right-wing majority in the parliament.
Current Political Landscape
In the upcoming May 18 early legislative elections, 18 parties are contesting in this district. The AD is led by the current Minister of Finance, Miranda Sarmento, while the PS has Mariana Vieira da Silva as its head candidate. Other notable candidates include André Ventura from Chega and Mariana Mortágua from the Left Bloc (BE).
Conclusion
The political dynamics in Lisbon continue to evolve, with a vibrant mix of parties competing for influence in an ever-changing landscape.
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