Lula’s Supreme Court Pick Jorge Messias Confronts Senate Resistance

Overview

• Messias needs 41 votes in the Senate and is working on a vote‑gathering strategy after the turbulence seen in prosecutor‑general Paulo Gonet’s reconfirmation.
• Senate leader Davi Alcolumbre reacted poorly to Lula’s choice and signaled he could hinder the process, including by pushing a costly retaliatory agenda.
• Reporting highlights allegations about Messias’s stewardship of the AGU, citing selective use of the democracy defense unit, actions against journalists, and delayed responses to union irregularities flagged internally.
• The nomination drew criticism from feminist and Black movements for lack of representation, and Lula is expected to choose a woman to succeed Messias at the AGU.
• If approved to replace the retired Luís Roberto Barroso, Messias would receive a docket reported at 911 cases, including Lava Jato matters and disputes on party amnesty and Carf tie‑breaking votes.