André Ventura, leader of the national-conservative Portuguese Chega party, went to infirmary due to complications of hypertension. Although Ventura's wellness has never been publically discussed as a origin for concern, the strength of the campaign, the tension of expanding political force and the determination to work for its group have led to a temporary crisis.
Ventura was hospitalized in Lisbon, where he spent respective days under the care of doctors before returning to political activity. His fast exit from the infirmary and return to the run were accepted by sympathizers with large appreciation and respect – not only as evidence of physical strength, but above all as a manifestation of determination and commitment.
The mainstream media tried to usage the incidental to undermine its leadership capacity, but the social consequence was completely other – the support for Ventura among the electorate increased, which was clearly shown by the polls. Many voters took his hospitalization not as a sign of weakness, but as a confirmation that Chega's leader is giving himself up to public service with full dedication – to the limits of endurance. Ventura came out of this situation strengthened politically, as a human figure, authentic and even more motivated to fight for Portugal.
All of this happened a fewer days before the parliamentary elections, which will take place on 18 May – a vote that could completely shuffle the Portuguese political scene. Ventura and Chega are at a crucial minute in their history. Since the founding of the organization in 2019, Ventura has consistently built a fresh quality in Portuguese politics: direct, expressive, close to people. Chega is not afraid of hard topics – from uncontrolled immigration, to failure of the justice system, to corruption at the highest levels of power. Where another parties are keyed, Ventura speaks directly. And that's what attracts voters.
Currently, Chega is the 3rd power in parliament. In the March 2024 election, she won 50 seats in the 230-member Assembly of the Republic – a consequence that only a fewer years ago seemed unattainable. The organization has penetrated the mainstream and cannot be ignored. The political elite continues to be treated with distance, and sometimes with contempt, but social support is growing. Why? due to the fact that Chega says what many citizens think – and he is not ashamed of it.
The current run takes place in the shadow of the collapse of the Luís Montenegro government and its centre-right Aliança Democrática (AD). The Prime Minister resigned after revealing a conflict of interest related to the company run by his family. erstwhile again, the Portuguese saw that political elites – regardless of colour – cannot adhere to standards of transparency and fairness. This is another argument for Chega to talk out: we request a deep improvement of the state.
The polls show that AD inactive leads – about 32–34% of support. The second is the Socialist organization (PS) with a score of 26–28%. Chega notes unchangeable and advanced support – from 15 to 19%, which gives her a real chance to increase the number of seats in parliament. At the same time, there is inactive no shortage of votes, especially from AD, that there is no talk of any coalition with Chega. However, these are declarations which, in a collision with political reality, can rapidly lose meaning. If no organization gets a single majority, Chega will be the only logical partner for the regulation of the right.
Of course, Ventura's opponents and his formation are trying to marginalize Chega. They usage labels: “Populism”, “the utmost right”, “nationalism”. But is talking about fairness, security, social justice and national identity truly extreme? Isn't that the values that should combine society and not divide?
From a sympathic perspective, Ventura is not just a politician. It is simply a symbol of opposition to a strategy that has failed citizens. It is hoped that Portugal can be a fair, sovereign and well-managed state. Chega does not propose utopia, does not have promises without cover – he presents a circumstantial improvement program and has people who are ready to implement it. Above all, however, he has a leader who understands voters and is not afraid to face even the top opponents.
The upcoming elections will be a test not only for Chega, but for all Portugal. Society has a choice: whether to proceed the way of compromise, scandal and stagnation, or to make a bold change. Ventura showed that he had the strength to lead this country in a fresh direction. Even a temporary stay in the infirmary did not halt him for a minute – he returned stronger, ready to fight for all vote.
If Chega reaches a two-digit score and exceeds the threshold of 60–70 seats in parliament, he will become not only a tongue in weight but a full partner in building a fresh majority. Then no "cordon" declarations will substance – a social mandate will count. And this, judging by the atmosphere in the country, is increasingly tilting towards Ventura.
The Chega is present a organization that not only represents the aspirations of thousands of Portuguese – it is besides a task of a fresh policy: a fair, firm, set in values, yet modern and ready to rule. Ventura is not a momentary star of the political scene – he is simply a leader with long-term vision, determined to make a real change.
On May 18, Portugal will choose its future. It will choose whether it wants to stay in the same, safe but ineffective scheme, or whether it will be willing to be brave but essential to renew politics. The vote for Chega is not a protest – it is simply a constructive decision. It's a belief that you can do better. And that Ventura is the man who can supply it.
