2026 Brazilian Presidential Candidates' Technology and Science Proposals Examined Ahead of Elections

As Brazil approaches the October 4, 2026 presidential election, a comprehensive analysis has been conducted on the candidates' proposals concerning science, technology, and health. The Instituto Questão de Ciência (IQC), in collaboration with Super magazine and Veja Saúde, is undertaking this review, marking a pivotal effort to critically assess the plans shaping Brazil's future in these strategic sectors.

The candidates' government plans vary substantially in length and detail—from as short as 7 pages to as long as 200—reflecting divergent approaches and complicating direct comparisons. Historically, Brazil only mandated formal government plans since 2009, without specifying the content rigorously, contributing to this disparity.

In total, six presidential candidates' technology-related promises were examined, encompassing 98 specific commitments. This includes notable figures such as Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT), Augusto Cury (Avante), Flávio Bolsonaro (PL), Renan Santos (Missão), Romeu Zema (Novo), and Ronaldo Caiado (PSD). Each promise was scrutinized for feasibility, incorporation of responsible entities, financing sources, and measurable goal setting.

Distinct styles emerge among the candidates: Cury emphasized artificial intelligence with 56 mentions; Caiado focused on technology and connectivity, offering the most detailed and actionable promises with over three execution indicators per promise; Lula's program was distinguished by the highest rate of innovation mentions relative to word count and underscored digital sovereignty. Meanwhile, Bolsonaro prioritized digital public services, Santos targeted AI and critical minerals in agribusiness, and Zema stressed productivity through technology.

Despite the breadth of proposals, no candidate fully addresses all critical aspects of technology and digital governance comprehensively. The assessment leverages a framework adapted from the 2012 American ScienceDebates project, customized for Brazil, and involves expert review to ensure impartial evaluation.

This analysis is groundbreaking in evaluating how presidential candidates intertwine technology with public policies across sectors such as education, health, climate, and digital governance. It highlights the complexity and importance of coherent technology strategies in shaping Brazil's future. The ongoing series will continue providing insights until the election day, offering voters thorough information on how each candidate plans to advance science and technology in Brazil.

"Candidates' programs reveal significant variation in scope and focus, with execution plans being a critical differentiator," stated the Instituto Questão de Ciência, emphasizing the necessity for critical evaluation ahead of voting. Historical data reflects mixed outcomes in promise fulfillment by previous presidents, underscoring the significance of scrutinizing plans rigorously.

As Brazil moves closer to election day, these detailed analyses aim to inform public debate and enhance transparency in one of the most consequential policy domains for Brazil’s development trajectory.