Geraldo Alckmin, Fernando Haddad, Gleisi Hoffmann and the president himself criticized this week the possible PT opponent in the 2026 elections
The federal government carefully follows the political movement of the governor of São Paulo, Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicans), which emerges as a possible successor of Jair Bolsonaro (PL) in the 2026 elections, with the former president ineligible until 2030. In recent months, Tarcisio has approached Centrão, articulated strategic agenda-such as the approval of the amnesty project that would benefit from Bolsonaro allies-and reinforced his-and reinforced his-and reinforced Bolsonaro protagonism in the right spectrum.
According to allies, the performance of the governor of São Paulo demonstrates the ability to unify parties around central topics, while expanding his electoral capital among more moderate pocket voters. The movement gained strength after recent episodes involving the Bolsonaro family and the Supreme Court, which left the former president and his most politically fragile children. The performance of the governor of São Paulo for the amnesty, even softened the friction with Eduardo Bolsonaro, son of the former president,
The political tension between Lula and Tarcisio was also reflected in institutional events. The governor participated in the Santos-Guarujá tunnel auction, while Lula chose not to go to the event, highlighting the presence of Vice President Geraldo Alckmin (PSB) and petist ministers who stressed the importance of public investment in the work. On social networks, Lula’s allies, such as Minister Gleisi Hoffmann, criticized Tarcisio’s position, pointing out that his market defense as an engine of the economy and pardon to Bolsonaro would represent a “puppet” and pro-market government program, far from the social priorities defended by the PT.
Meanwhile, Tarcisio maintains articulation in Congress and with leaders of Republicans, PSD and progressives, strengthening his potential presidential candidacy in 2026 – although he does not openly say that he wants to run for Planalto Palace. The governor has sought to balance the support of the Bolsonaro family with signs of political autonomy, consolidating himself as a viable alternative to the left and his own bolsonarism.
The scenario reflects a strategic repositioning of the Lula administration, which aims at the governor of São Paulo as possible direct rival, while maintaining institutional dialogue with center parties and closely follows the movement of the right -wing electorate. The 2026 presidential succession begins to draw a more fierce political board, with Tarcisio as emerging protagonist.
Published by Felipe Dantas
*Report produced with the aid of AI
