Portugal's Chega party becomes the main opposition and joins Europe's far-right surge

npr.orgPublished: 5/29/2025

Summary

Portugal’s once-fringe Chega party, now the nation's leading opposition, secured six seats in parliament following a decisive victory over mainstream parties—marking a significant shift in Europe as far-right forces rise. The party, which gained two seats from EU voters, will lead opposition to new Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, whose minority government may face challenges amid growing far-right influence across the continent.