The announced construction of the tunnel that will connect Santos to Guarujá, on the coast of São Paulo, has become a field of political dispute between the state and federal governments. The work, awaited a century ago by the local population, shows a growing tension between the different government spheres. The analysis is by Edilene Lopes in CNN 360º.
The governor of São Paulo, Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicans), and President Lula (PT) have shown interest in politically capitalizing on the project. According to Edilene, the speech of Finance Minister Fernando Haddad (PT) at the concession event emphasized that Planalto has prioritized large infrastructure deliveries, signaling a clear dispute over the paternity of the work. In addition, Haddad is also PT plan B for 2026 elections.
A. The project emerges as a possible asset for the 2026 election campaign, with both governments seeking to associate their management with this important realization.
The current political scenario indicates that Tarcísio de Freitas has been positioning himself more assertively in the national scene. Its recent and the manifestation of a “debt of gratitude” with former President Jair Bolsonaro (PL) suggest significant political movements, even though he has not officially declared his candidacy for the presidency.
Even so, the analyst says that the governor of São Paulo is considered Bolsonaro’s most competitive substitute for the 2026 elections and is a potential adversary of Lula.
