Kassab Puts Ratinho Jr. Ahead as PSD Nears 2026 Presidential Decision

Overview

• PSD leaders say the choice will come within weeks, with Ratinho Jr. and Eduardo Leite as the two options under consideration.
• Ratinho Jr. has stepped up internal outreach, holding at least two meetings this year to signal readiness to lead the ticket.
• Gilberto Kassab states the party would back Tarcísio de Freitas if he runs for president, otherwise it is preparing a candidacy of its own.
• Tarcísio again rules out a presidential bid and declares support for Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, who says his pre-candidacy will not be withdrawn.
• A new Genial/Quaest poll shows Lula at 43% versus 36% for Ratinho Jr. in a head-to-head test, underscoring PSD concerns over competitiveness.