Fact Check: "Far-right party Chega becomes Portugal's second-largest parliamentary force!"
What We Know
Chega, a national conservative and right-wing populist political party in Portugal, was founded in 2019 by André Ventura. Initially, it won only one seat in the 2019 legislative elections, but it has since gained significant traction. In the 2022 elections, Chega increased its representation to 12 seats, becoming the third most voted party (source). The party's popularity surged in the 2024 elections, where it won 50 seats, marking a substantial increase from its previous count (source). Most recently, in the 2025 elections, Chega further improved its standing by winning 60 seats, surpassing the Socialist Party to become the second-largest party in the Assembly of the Republic (source, source).
Analysis
The claim that Chega has become Portugal's second-largest parliamentary force is supported by recent election results. According to reports, Chega's performance in the 2025 elections was a historic breakthrough, as it achieved a significant increase in its seat count and overtook the Socialist Party, which had been a dominant force in Portuguese politics for decades (source). This shift indicates a major change in the political landscape of Portugal, as Chega's rise reflects a growing trend of right-wing populism in Europe.
However, it is essential to consider the context of this rise. Political analysts suggest that Chega's success can be attributed to voter discontent with the traditional parties, particularly in light of recent scandals involving leaders from both the Socialist and Social Democratic parties (source, source). While the party's growth is notable, it also raises questions about the implications of such a shift towards far-right politics in Portugal, a country previously seen as resistant to this trend (source).
The sources used in this analysis are credible, with the primary one being a detailed overview from Wikipedia, which is regularly updated and provides a comprehensive history of the party (source). Additionally, news articles from France24 and other reputable outlets corroborate the election results and the significance of Chega's rise (source, source).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Chega has become Portugal's second-largest parliamentary force is accurate. The party's electoral success in the 2025 elections, where it won 60 seats and surpassed the Socialist Party, confirms this assertion. This development marks a significant shift in the Portuguese political landscape, reflecting broader trends in European politics.
