Brazil’s political scene just got a major jolt! Former President Jair Bolsonaro, currently barred from public office and serving a 27-year sentence, has finally made his long-awaited endorsement for the 2026 presidential race. But instead of picking a seasoned politician, he stunned everyone by backing his eldest son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro.
This controversial move sent shockwaves through the country. Financial markets plunged, as many investors had hoped for a more predictable choice like Sao Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas. Even within Bolsonaro’s own right-wing coalition, the response has been lukewarm. Allies initially stayed silent, and political analysts note that, beyond his immediate family, few have publicly praised the decision.
The big question now is whether Jair Bolsonaro still has the power to unite the right. His endorsement, far from being a clear advantage, might actually be a liability. Recent polls suggest that nearly half of Brazilians would not vote for a candidate supported by the former president.
Flavio Bolsonaro faces an uphill battle. Current surveys show him trailing leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva by double digits, while other potential right-wing candidates like Freitas are polling significantly closer. This unexpected endorsement has further fragmented the opposition, emboldening other conservative hopefuls. Flavio is attempting to present himself as a “more moderate” Bolsonaro, but even the hardcore “Bolsonarismo” base appears divided.
With the October 2026 election less than a year away, a fractured right-wing opposition risks being unprepared to challenge Lula, potentially handing him a fourth presidential term.
