These elections were called following the collapse of the government formed by the Social Democratic Party and the People's Party, marking the second time voters have been called to the polls since March 2024.

Approximately 10.8 million voters are registered for this election, with 21 political parties and coalitions competing, many contesting in all electoral circles.

Notable figures, including President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Socialist leader Carlos César, have already cast their votes, emphasizing the importance of voter participation.

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed surprise at the high number of early voters after casting his ballot in Vila Real de Santo António.

Pedro Nuno Santos, the Socialist leader, voted in Lisbon, urging citizens to participate to avoid leaving decisions to others and to prevent unwanted outcomes.

The National Electoral Commission reported that the voting process is running smoothly, despite minor complaints about delays due to counting early votes.

A total of 63,020 election officials are overseeing the voting process across 12,604 polling stations throughout the country.

Early voting turnout in Lisbon reached 26% by noon today, reflecting a 15% increase in early voter registrations compared to previous elections.

The total budget for the electoral campaigns amounts to €8,511,740.73, with significant allocations for various parties, including €2,550,000 for the AD coalition and €2,250,000 for the PS.

Today, May 18, 2025, over 333,000 voters in Portugal are participating in early voting for the legislative elections, which will elect 230 deputies across 22 electoral districts.

Rui Rocha from the Liberal Initiative voted in Braga, highlighting the significance of voting amidst ongoing political turmoil and expressing hope for high voter turnout.

In the previous legislative elections held in March 2024, the abstention rate was notably high at 40.2%, raising concerns about voter engagement.