Bolsonaro Picks Carlos & De Toni for SC Senate Race, Sidestepping Michelle’s Choice
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, affiliated with the PL (Liberal Party), has informed allies of his planned senatorial ticket for Santa Catarina. The slate will feature his son, Carlos Bolsonaro, a former Rio de Janeiro councilman, and federal deputy Caroline de Toni, also of the PL. This decision represents a shift from previous arrangements within the party.
A Shift in Strategy
Caroline de Toni had been the preferred candidate of former First Lady Michelle Bolsonaro for a Senate seat in the state. This preference reportedly influenced Bolsonaro’s final decision, according to sources close to the matter. The state’s current governor, Jorginho Mello (PL), is also seeking re-election.
Internal Dynamics and Party Agreements
According to Cabo Gilberto Silva, a federal deputy and opposition leader in the Chamber, Bolsonaro communicated his decision during a recent visit. Within the PL, an agreement exists where the former president will select candidates for Senate positions, while party president Valdemar Costa Neto will focus on candidates for state governorships and the Chamber of Deputies.
Potential for Division
This move is expected to create a rift within the right-wing political landscape of Santa Catarina, as it goes against Governor Jorginho Mello’s preference for supporting the re-election of Senator Esperidião Amin (PP). Despite Amin being a loyal ally to the Bolsonaro movement, Bolsonaro’s choice is based on polling data indicating de Toni’s stronger position.
Impact on Alliances
The decision could also strain relations between the PL and the PP, particularly concerning Flávio Bolsonaro’s (PL-RJ) presidential ambitions. Flávio Bolsonaro had hoped to secure the PP’s support for his candidacy, but faces resistance from within the party, especially in the Northeast, regarding an association with the Bolsonaro political brand. The president of the PP reportedly met with current President Lula (PT) to discuss a potential agreement regarding the upcoming elections.
Bolsonaro allies, however, downplay the potential fallout with the PP, suggesting that the PP and União Brasil federation will still support Flávio Bolsonaro’s presidential bid. The situation has already sparked public disagreements among party members, stemming from Carlos Bolsonaro’s recent move to establish residency in Santa Catarina due to a crowded field of right-wing candidates in Rio de Janeiro.
What Could Happen Next
Amin’s allies indicate he will pursue a Senate run regardless of party agreements, though he would prefer to be on the PL ticket. Governor Jorginho Mello, who won his current term without a Senate running mate, has been building a coalition with the PP and MDB for the 2026 elections. The mayor of Chapecó, João Rodrigues (PSD), is also challenging Mello for the governorship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jair Bolsonaro choosing for the Senate in Santa Catarina?
Jair Bolsonaro has chosen his son, Carlos Bolsonaro, and federal deputy Caroline de Toni to run for Senate in Santa Catarina.
Was Michelle Bolsonaro in agreement with this decision?
Caroline de Toni was Michelle Bolsonaro’s preferred candidate, and her preference reportedly weighed on the former president’s decision, according to allies.
How might this impact Governor Jorginho Mello?
This decision could complicate Governor Jorginho Mello’s plans to use the Senate race to broaden his alliances for re-election.
Given the shifting alliances and internal party dynamics, how might these developments reshape the political landscape in Santa Catarina leading up to the 2026 elections?