“I will not change my character, I will not speak ill of anyone, I will not run a negative campaign,” stated the former PSD leader, during a visit to the National Gastronomy Festival, where he announced the selection of chef Rodrigo Castello as the district representative for Santarém.
Marques Mendes emphasized his intent to “elevate the debate” and focus the campaign on the concrete problems facing the Portuguese people.
“I want to help solve issues related to housing, health, and security. The country is tired of politics based on insults,” he said, ensuring that he will not respond to slander with slander.
Marques Mendes declared that his campaign will be “on the streets, among the people,” appreciating the “direct and close contact.”
“I began my municipal career at 19 years old; I’ve always valued affection and proximity. For me, it’s not forced; it’s natural,” he stated, pledging not to alter his stance, even when provoked by opponents.
Marques Mendes also recalled that, when he announced his candidacy in February, he faced a significant disadvantage in polls compared to Admiral Gouveia e Melo, but the situation has shifted.
“When I presented my candidacy in February, my opponent Gouveia e Melo had a 21-point lead. Today we are in a technical tie,” he claimed, accusing his opponent of resorting to “personal attacks.”
Asked about António José Seguro’s candidacy, which may receive PS support, the candidate reiterated his commitment to maintaining his positive campaign strategy.
“I will continue to run the same positive campaign, addressing people’s concrete issues. Those who lose their character aren’t genuine, and those who aren’t genuine don’t earn the trust of the Portuguese people,” he declared.
During his visit to the National Gastronomy Festival, Marques Mendes stressed the significance of gastronomy as “one of the pillars of national identity” and announced chef Rodrigo Castello as his representative in Santarém.
“It’s not common to choose a chef as a representative. I did it intentionally to highlight the importance of gastronomy for the country,” he explained, praising the chef’s career, which includes a Michelin star and recognition for work in sustainability.
“Events like this are beneficial in every way: they bring pleasure, assert our identity, and boost internal and external tourism,” he noted, considering the Santarém festival as having “a historical character.”
Chef Rodrigo Castello, chosen as the district representative for the candidacy, expressed surprise at the invitation but accepted “without hesitation,” highlighting personal admiration for the candidate as a crucial factor.
“I have never aligned with a specific political color, and here, I believe political color doesn’t matter much; what matters is the person Dr. Marques Mendes is,” he said, adding that he aligns with the human values that the candidate represents.
The chef also emphasized the role of gastronomy in expressing regional identity and environmental responsibility.
“I identify as a Ribatejo cook, but the keyword is sustainability. Every chef has the responsibility to cook while respecting the ecosystem in which they operate,” he stated, advocating that local gastronomy appreciation should go hand in hand with good environmental practices.
