During a visit to Newark, New Jersey, to participate in the Portugal Day celebrations, Marques Mendes expressed concerns over the discrepancy in voting methods for Portuguese expatriates. He highlighted that while they can vote by mail in parliamentary elections, they are required to vote in person at consulates for presidential elections.
“People are justifiably upset and argue for electronic voting, both in Portugal and abroad. The inconsistency is evident: voting by mail is straightforward in parliamentary elections, yet presidential voting requires consular visits. This is seen as discriminatory,” he stated.
Mendes pledged to urge both the Portuguese Parliament and the government to amend electoral laws by January to allow mail-in voting for presidential elections, akin to parliamentary elections.
The former PSD leader emphasized the feasibility of this legislative change before the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for next January.
“If political parties reach a consensus in Parliament, this legal adjustment is achievable. This is not about benefiting a particular candidate but about addressing the broad interests of Portugal and fulfilling the aspirations of the global Portuguese community,” he added.
Newark hosts the traditional Portugal Day parade on Ferry Street, known as the heart of ‘Little Portugal’ due to its substantial Portuguese community. The streets typically fill with attendees dressed in national colors to celebrate the event.
Beyond electoral concerns, Mendes noted a significant decline in support for Portuguese education and cultural programs in the U.S. The diaspora has expressed a need for structural investment in these areas.
Mendes praised the community’s self-reliance in sustaining Portuguese language schools and deemed state investment crucial. He cited complaints that Portugal’s once robust support, such as sending books, has dwindled.
“This is a common grievance. Successive generations want to maintain Portuguese language skills, which necessitates state investment,” he stressed.
If elected President, Mendes promised this focus would be a priority, speaking from the centenary Sport Club Português in Newark, where he dined with community members.
“We’re not just defined by borders; we are a nation. Ten million reside in Portugal, with another five million globally. A thriving diaspora hinges on vibrant Portuguese education,” he affirmed.
