Shortly after the prime minister took to the stage at a rally in Batalha to call for votes for Marques Mendes — arguing that voting for Seguro or Cotrim de Figueiredo would not prevent 'two populist candidates' reaching the second round — the candidate backed by IL criticised the appeal for tactical voting in Lisbon and did not spare barbs at his opponents.
Cotrim replies to Montenegro and says Sá Carneiro's 'reformist spirit' and Passos's 'courage' are 'today in his candidacy'
Sunday, 4 January 2026RSS
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Context & Explainers
The second round (segunda volta) is a runoff held if no candidate obtains more than 50% of votes in the first round; the top two candidates then compete head‑to‑head. For expats following elections, the second round is usually decisive because broader coalitions form and turnout and endorsements can change the outcome.
