Portugal to Hold Snap Elections on May 18 After Government Collapse
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa dissolves parliament following no-confidence vote against Prime Minister Luís Montenegro.
- The early election marks Portugal's third national vote in just over three years, reflecting ongoing political instability.
- Prime Minister Luís Montenegro's minority government fell after a no-confidence vote tied to allegations of conflict of interest involving his family's business dealings.
- Montenegro denies wrongdoing and will lead the center-right Social Democratic Party in the upcoming election, with polls showing a tight race against the Socialist Party.
- The far-right Chega party, while still polling third, has seen a slight decline in support, potentially affecting its role as a parliamentary kingmaker.
- Voter fatigue is a significant concern as the elections occur during a busy electoral year, with regional, local, and presidential elections also scheduled.