BRASÍLIA — Brazil’s largest right-wing party, the Liberal Party (PL), is determined to run former President Jair Bolsonaro in the 2026 presidential election, despite legal hurdles barring him from office until 2030. The party’s leader, Valdemar Costa Neto, is optimistic that a constitutional amendment could reverse Bolsonaro’s ineligibility, which stems from his attacks on Brazil’s electronic voting system.
Bolsonaro, a controversial figure with significant public support, is currently barred from speaking to Costa Neto due to a court order related to an investigation into an alleged coup plot following his 2022 election loss. Despite this, the PL is counting on Bolsonaro’s enduring popularity to fuel its success in upcoming elections.
Costa Neto acknowledged the challenges posed by Bolsonaro’s far-right views and resistance to advice but remains confident in his charismatic appeal. He also hinted that São Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas could be a potential alternative candidate for 2026 if Bolsonaro remains ineligible.
The party leader expressed hopes that a victory by former U.S. President Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. election could boost right-wing momentum globally, benefiting Brazil’s conservative movement. Despite Bolsonaro’s legal battles, Costa Neto believes his influence remains a powerful force within Brazilian politics, with the PL continuing to gain ground in local elections.