The Lisboeta

Finance Minister warns only a vote for Mendes can prevent a 'populist or socialist' in Belém

Tuesday, 13 January 2026RSS
Finance Minister warns only a vote for Mendes can prevent a 'populist or socialist' in Belém

The Finance Minister today warned centre-right voters against 'siren songs', arguing that only a vote for Marques Mendes can prevent the next President of the Republic from being 'a populist or a socialist'.

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Context & Explainers

Populism is a political style that frames politics as a struggle between 'the people' and a corrupt elite, often using simple messaging, charismatic leaders and direct appeals to public sentiment; it can appear on both the left and right. It matters for expats because populist rhetoric or governments can drive quick policy shifts on immigration, taxation and business regulation, so monitoring election campaigns and major reforms helps anticipate changes that could affect residency, work or services.