In a decisive election, Portuguese citizens voted with two-thirds of the ballots in favor of moderate socialist António José Seguro, thereby denying the far-right candidate André Ventura from the party Chega a victory. This outcome exemplified a concerted effort by the main political parties across the spectrum, both left and right, to establish a 'sanitary cordon' against radical candidates in a bid to maintain political stability in the country. While the Prime Minister holds governing powers, the President plays a crucial role by being able to dissolve Parliament and veto laws, thus having significant influence over the country's political landscape.

The author expresses joy at the successful prevention of far-right extremists gaining power, emphasizing that democracy's strength lies not just in electing wise leaders but also in its capacity to keep problematic figures at bay. However, the optimism is tempered by the growin presence of radical political movements, evident from Chega's rise from a solitary deputy in the 2019 elections to becoming the second most powerful political force with 23% of the vote in the 2025 legislative elections. This trend poses a challenge to Portugal’s political fabric and democracy, indicating a shift in voter sentiments towards more extreme positions.

The narrative highlights the evolving political dynamics in Portugal, showcasing how the electorate's choices reflect larger socio-political trends in the country. It underlines the importance of vigilance in democratic processes to ensure that extremist ideologies do not take root, urging continued vigilance from all political entities to maintain a balanced and less radical political environment as the country prepares for future elections and legislative challenges.