Overview
- With 98.75% of votes counted, António José Seguro led with about 31% and André Ventura trailed on roughly 23–24%, confirming a Feb. 8 runoff.
- A record field of 11 candidates split the vote, leading to the first presidential second round since 1986.
- Liberal João Cotrim de Figueiredo finished third near 16%, while PSD-backed Luís Marques Mendes underperformed, marking a setback for the ruling party.
- Authorities reported higher participation than in prior presidential elections, pointing to elevated voter engagement.
- Though largely ceremonial, the presidency can veto legislation and dissolve parliament, sharpening the stakes as parties consider endorsements and turnout strategies for the runoff.