2024 Azorean Regional Election, Who Wins and What It Could Mean for the 2024 Legislative Elections

The regional elections took place last Sunday, 4th of February, with the winning coalition comprising three different parties: PSD/CDS/PPM. Despite their victory, the coalition did not secure a majority, holding 26 seats in the regional assembly, three short of the required 29 for a majority.

Led by José Manuel Boleiro of the PSD party, the coalition is named aliança democrática (AD). A notable outcome of the election was the PS Party's first defeat since 1996, as they secured 23 seats, becoming the second political force. It's worth mentioning that the PS party is the current ruling party in Portugal.

With Portugal set to hold a general election on the 10th of March 2024, the reasons for this early election are elaborated in this article. Given the victory of the right-wing coalition in this regional election, there's speculation that a similar outcome could occur in the general elections. Such a shift may signal changes in Portuguese legislation regarding immigration and external investment, as historically, the right-wing (PSD) has shown greater receptiveness to external investment, influencing immigration policies.

Other noteworthy points from the election include losses for the left-wing parties, with the PS party securing 23 seats, the Bloco de Esquerda party and the PAN party each securing one seat. Additionally, the right-wing Iniciativa Liberal Party may secure one seat in the legislative assembly.

The right-wing extremist party, known as Chega, gained ground with five seats. Despite this, the right-wing has stated its refusal to enter into any political alliances with the far-right, affirming its commitment to Portuguese democratic values and rejecting far-right ideologies.

The Azorean Archipelago, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, comprises nine islands, all of volcanic origin. Characterised by dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, verdant pastures, and abundant blue hydrangeas, the islands offer a unique and picturesque environment.