Lula Poised to Tap AGU Chief Jorge Messias for STF as Planalto Counts Senate Votes

Overview

• Allies report Jorge Messias as the likely nominee for Luís Roberto Barroso’s vacated seat, with the formal submission expected after Lula returns on October 28.
• After meeting Lula, Senate President Davi Alcolumbre signaled he will not campaign for Messias despite preferring Rodrigo Pacheco, and he is not expected to block the process.
• Government leader Jaques Wagner says Lula is convinced about Messias and plans further outreach, including a conversation with Pacheco once back from Asia.
• Senators note the nominee must secure at least 41 votes and expect Messias to face a tighter path than Pacheco, citing recent narrow confirmations.
• The Planalto is courting cross-bloc backing, with Justice André Mendonça expected to help attract conservative votes, while interim president Geraldo Alckmin forecasts a favorable reception in the Senate.