From Prison, Jair Bolsonaro Taps Flávio as PL’s 2026 Pick as Right Fractures

Overview

• PL president Valdemar Costa Neto confirmed that Jair Bolsonaro designated Senator Flávio Bolsonaro as the party’s representative for the 2026 presidential race, and Flávio publicly accepted.
• Presenting himself as a pre-candidate, Flávio called for right-wing unity and pressed Congress to approve this year an amnesty for those charged and convicted over the January 8 attacks.
• PL governors Cláudio Castro and Jorginho Mello expressed support, while Romeu Zema and Ronaldo Caiado said they will maintain their own presidential bids; Tarcísio de Freitas had not issued a public position.
• Centrão leaders showed skepticism, with União Brasil figures criticizing the lack of consultation and indicating parties may prioritize legislative races or remain neutral in the presidential contest.
• A Datafolha survey released Saturday, conducted before the announcement, showed Flávio 15 points behind President Lula in a simulated runoff, and traders linked a weaker Ibovespa and a stronger dollar to the reshaped electoral outlook.