Brazil Sees Political Comebacks of Figures Tainted by Corruption Scandals in 2026

Several Brazilian politicians previously involved in high-profile corruption scandals are attempting significant political comebacks in 2026, highlighting an evolving and complex political landscape. Prominent among them is José Roberto Arruda, former governor of the Federal District, who recently joined the PSD party and announced his intention to run for governor again. Despite a decade-long absence and past legal troubles related to corruption and administrative misconduct, Arruda currently leads in the polls for the Palácio do Buriti. His eligibility, however, hinges on a pending ruling by the Electoral Justice concerning the recalculated ineligibility period allowed under recent changes to the Clean Record Law; his defense claims this period will end in July.

Arruda's political resurgence is bolstered by the PSD's alliance with Avante, whose leader Gim Argello, also with a history of corruption cases, is positioned to run as his vice-governor. This partnership underscores the broader trend of formerly disgraced politicians seeking new alliances and opportunities.

Other notable characters in this political re-emergence include Agnelo Queiroz, convicted for political abuse and financial misconduct, aiming for a return; José Dirceu, a former Lula administration chief of staff, supported by Lula himself in his political comeback; and figures from the Workers' Party (PT) like Delúbio Soares and André Vargas, both facing corruption charges. Moreover, the MDB is considering a comeback for Eduardo Cunha, a former Chamber president with a corruption conviction, while Sérgio Cabral, former governor of Rio de Janeiro, awaits a Supreme Court decision that may restore his political rights after serving time.

This wave of returns has come amid growing public frustration about corruption and governance issues in Brazil. Recent years have seen increased protests and calls for transparency and systemic reform amid social challenges like poverty and inequality. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, before the recent Carnival tribute, inaugurated an emergency center in Rio and emphasized 2026 as a pivotal year to "destroy the lie," reflecting the government's awareness of the corruption narrative and public expectations.

Overall, the re-entry of these controversial figures is reshaping electoral dynamics and provoking debates about political ethics and legal reforms in Brazil's troubled political arena.