"The Algarve has long been a popular destination for holidaymakers, and tourism fuels much of the region's economy. But it also pushes up housing prices and the cost of living, and attracts a high number of foreign workers. Some residents say they are fed up with the situation. Others will tell you wistfully that the Algarve is not what it once was."
"It is partly why the Algarve has become a stronghold for Andre Ventura's far-right Chega party. Its anti-establishment and anti-immigration message resonates with voters here who feel unheard and unseen by mainstream parties. A former TV football commentator, Ventura founded Chega, which means Enough, seven years ago. Since then, Chega's made large gains in a region that has become a springboard for its leader's ambitions, including the presidency. Ventura is in the second round of the presidential run-off vote on February 8."
After fierce storms the Algarve shows sunny beaches and busy cafes while underlying economic strain intensifies. Tourism remains the region's economic engine but also drives up housing prices, increases the cost of living and attracts many foreign workers. Low salaries leave some residents struggling to pay rent and feeling that the region is no longer what it once was. Many locals perceive political leaders in Lisbon as disconnected from their struggles. Those grievances have helped the far-right Chega party gain ground, with founder Andre Ventura leveraging anti-establishment and anti-immigration messages into electoral momentum.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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