The opposition social-democrat party would come first in the legislative elections next March, according to a Euronews/Jornal Sol poll.
Portugal is at a crossroads with early elections scheduled for next March. The elections were sparked by the shock resignation of Prime Minister Antonio Costa and the dissolution of Parliament by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa after the government found itself embroiled in an influence peddling investigation.
In an exclusive poll, euronews, in partnership with the Portuguese newspaper Jornal Sol, studied voters’ attitudes following this political earthquake.
First observation, the resignation and dissolution of parliament is widely supported by voters. More than 78% of those surveyed said Antonio Costa was right to step down amid the scandal. And nearly 83% believe the president was right to immediately call an election.
So, where are the parties a few months before the national election?
The opposition Social Democratic Party is on course to win the vote, with around 22% of the vote. The Socialists would come second with 19.5 percent. The far-right Chega party would consolidate its position as the third bloc with almost 13%.
But the scandal that toppled the government is not the most important issue for voters, according to our poll. Most Portuguese – almost 53% – are concerned about the state of the public health service.
38% say inflation and cost of living are the main concern, while housing and education are the top priority for 27-28% of people.
The March 10 elections will be closely watched by observers in Brussels because they could provide an indication of how citizens might vote in the European elections that follow three months later.