Cotrim fails re-election as vice of the liberal bench

Portugal's representation in the European Parliament has diminished, with only one vice-president remaining after João Cotrim Figueiredo and Sebastião Bugalho lost their positions. Cotrim, previously vice-president of the Renew group, lost re-election by three votes, while Bugalho failed to secure a vice-presidential role in the European People's Party. Ana Catarina Mendes was the only Portuguese politician to be re-elected, emphasizing her commitment to democracy and fundamental values. The losses reflect a shift in the Renew group towards a more leftist agenda, raising concerns about the future of center-right liberalism within the party.