“If we have three Salazars, around four or five million Portuguese will leave, since during Salazar’s time was when most people left. Perhaps one should reflect on this,” said Paulo Rangel to the deputies from the committees of Budget, Finance and Public Administration, Foreign Affairs and Portuguese Communities, and European Affairs, during the joint hearing on the State Budget for 2026.
In response to the 30 questions posed by deputies during the third round of the hearing, mainly regarding the Portuguese communities, Rangel ironically referenced the “three Salazars” advocated by Chega leader André Ventura.
Rangel directed the proposal for electronic voting, suggested by some deputies, to the Assembly of the Republic, which is responsible for amending the Electoral Law, necessary for this option to be possible.
Regarding elections, the Secretary of State for Portuguese Communities, Emídio Sousa, praised the “tremendous commitment” of Portuguese diplomacy to ensure things go smoothly.
He announced that the Government will conduct a “very strong campaign” to mobilize Portuguese citizens abroad to register for the presidential elections, which must be completed by November 18.
Concerning Voltar, the new program supporting the return of Portuguese emigrants, presented by the Government to replace the current Regressar, Paulo Rangel stated it will be “more comprehensive,” with advanced stages of development.
The program’s novelty, among others, is expected to include some retirees in these supports.
