Nominated by Bolsonaro to the STF, Mendonça supports “friend” also an evangelical rejected by the Senate for a vacancy on the Court
The Minister of the Federal Supreme Court André Mendonça stated this Wednesday (April 29, 2026) that “Brazil misses the opportunity to have a great Supreme Minister” after the rejection of the name of Jorge Messias, attorney general of the Union, for a vacancy on the Court. The appointment made by the president (PT) received 42 votes against and 34 in favor in the Senate plenary.
“I respect the Senate’s decision, but I cannot help but express my opinion. Brazil is missing the opportunity to have a great Supreme Minister”wrote in a post on .
Mendonça, who arrived at the STF on the recommendation of the former president (PL), called Messias “true friend“. Both are evangelicals.
“Messiah is a man of character, integrity and who meets the constitutional requirements to be Minister of the STF. And a true friend is not present at parties; he is present in difficult moments”, said Mendonça.
On April 6, 2026, Mendonça, who was waiting for Jorge Messias at the STF “shortly”.
The defeat represents a political setback for Lula in an election year and exposes the difficulty of the government’s political articulation in Congress, even in an appointment considered a priority by the Palácio do Planalto.
The president of the Senate, (União-AP), acted to reject Messias. Lula could nominate another name for the position, but he is unlikely to do so anytime soon. It is possible that the PT member will leave the choice until after the elections.
