Eduardo Cunha Announces 2026 Run for Federal Deputy From Minas Gerais

Overview

• Cunha released a video declaring he will seek a federal deputy seat in Minas Gerais, calling the state the “synthesis of Brazil” and a national bellwether.
• He argued Minas often mirrors presidential outcomes, citing the narrow 2022 result that closely matched the national split between Lula and Bolsonaro.
• To build support, he has expanded a network of local radio stations—including Rádio Maravilha in Uberaba and outlets in Além Paraíba, Carangola, Raul Soares and Guarani—alongside a visible presence at evangelical services and regional events.
• He became a sponsor of Uberaba Sport Club and appeared at Expozebu and cattle auctions in 2025, further anchoring his profile in the Triângulo Mineiro and Zona da Mata regions.
• A João Pinheiro mayor publicly thanked Cunha for a R$1.05 million health amendment even though he holds no mandate; O Antagonista reports Deputy Gilberto Abramo is the formal author via the Chamber’s Health Committee, underscoring the use of intermediaries.