Alvaro Dias Eyes Political Comeback in 2026, Considers Returning to MDB

Alvaro Dias, former governor of Paraná and ex-senator, is preparing to re-enter politics for the 2026 elections after taking a break following his defeat in the 2022 Senate race. He is currently seeking a party to support his candidacy and has shown interest in returning to the MDB, the party where he began his political journey in 1968. Dias expressed dissatisfaction with Podemos, the party he helped establish and recently left, citing internal disputes and a lack of direction. Despite stepping away from active politics, he remains a significant figure with strong voter recognition and polling well as a potential Senate candidate, especially in scenarios excluding current governor Ratinho Junior. Approaching 81 years old, Dias acknowledges his age but feels a responsibility to continue serving publicly while balancing family considerations. He has been in talks with MDB leaders, including national president Baleia Rossi, emphasizing his deep roots and past achievements within the party. Dias views MDB as his political "home" and maintains an optimistic stance for his prospective comeback, demonstrating resilience amid shifts in Brazil's political landscape and former allies' party changes. This move comes against a backdrop of broader political challenges in Brazil, where entrenched political figures dominate amid increasing youth engagement and calls for political renewal.