Left parties including the PCP signalled an overriding priority to prevent André Ventura from winning the presidency, with party figures saying they will support the candidate best placed to defeat him even if they have reservations. Reporting notes the communists framed this as defending democracy against a perceived threat and urged coordinated action rather than formal full endorsements. Voters who oppose Ventura should follow statements from left‑wing parties ahead of the run‑off as coalition signals may affect turnout and tactical voting.
Left parties mobilise to block Ventura’s rise
Monday, 19 January 2026AI summary
Context & Explainers
The PCP is the Portuguese Communist Party (Partido Comunista Português), a historic left-wing party founded in 1921. It remains influential in some trade unions and local councils, usually wins single-digit percentages in national elections, and often runs as part of the CDU coalition with the Greens. Voters and those tracking coalition-building should note the PCP’s capacity to mobilise grassroots support and influence left-wing alliances.
António Filipe is a politician from the PCP (Partido Comunista Português) who, in this story, acknowledged that his election results fell short and said the party would join forces to oppose what it called a 'serious threat to democracy'. His remarks indicate the PCP intends to be active in post-election alliances rather than withdrawing from national debates. Voters and those following left-wing politics should pay attention to his and the PCP's next moves.
Tactical voting means choosing a less-preferred candidate to achieve a strategic outcome—for example concentrating support to ensure a preferred candidate reaches the second round (segunda volta) or to block a rival. Party leaders urge it when they want to avoid splitting votes among similar candidates and increase the chance of a favourable runoff result.
