Key Brazilian Political Figures Prepare for 2026 Election Comeback
Prominent Brazilian politicians, including Eduardo Cunha and José Dirceu, are making significant moves toward re-entering the 2026 elections, while local leaders in Pernambuco rally support for key candidates.
- • Eduardo Cunha plans to run for federal deputy in Minas Gerais after his conviction was annulled.
- • José Dirceu and other former controversial figures intend to contest federal deputy seats.
- • Ciro Gomes is expected to run for governor of Ceará after joining PSDB.
- • Marco Aurélio Meu Amigo and Marco Aurélio Filho support re-election bids of Rodrigo Farias and Pedro Campos in Pernambuco.
Key details
As Brazil approaches its 2026 elections, notable political figures are actively planning their returns to the electoral stage, seeking to leverage past experience amid a polarized political climate. Former President of the Chamber of Deputies Eduardo Cunha intends to run for federal deputy representing Minas Gerais, describing the state as a "microcosm of Brazil." Cunha, once central to the impeachment of Dilma Rousseff and convicted in the Lava Jato corruption scandal, had his conviction annulled by the Supreme Court in 2023, reopening his political prospects.
Similarly, José Dirceu, ex-Minister of the Civil House, has been cleared of previous charges and aims to run for federal deputy as well. José Roberto Arruda, former governor, desires to run for the governorship of the Federal District, despite facing legal questions regarding his eligibility. Another significant figure, Ciro Gomes, after switching to the PSDB party, is expected to vie for Ceará’s governorship. Other politicians such as João Paulo Cunha and Delúbio Soares are also preparing to contest federal deputy seats. The elections are slated for October 4, 2026, with a possible runoff on October 25 for presidential and gubernatorial races.
In Pernambuco, former deputy Marco Aurélio Meu Amigo and Secretary of Human Rights and Youth, Marco Aurélio Filho, publicly supported the re-election campaigns of state deputy Rodrigo Farias and federal deputy Pedro Campos, both from PSB. Their endorsement was celebrated at a well-attended event in the Vasco da Gama neighborhood of Recife, with over 200 community leaders present. Rodrigo Farias emphasized the honor and responsibility of this support, pledging continued work for a more just and inclusive Recife and Pernambuco. Marco Aurélio Filho praised Farias’ dedication and effective legislative work, invoking a quote by Eduardo Campos to underline their commitment to forward progress. This event marks a strategic alliance aimed at bolstering political influence ahead of the elections, particularly in Recife and the surrounding metropolitan area.
These developments underscore a broader trend of established political figures re-entering the fray, signaling significant maneuvering as the 2026 elections draw near.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
