Brazilian Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro says his jailed father, former President Jair Bolsonaro, has chosen him to represent their political movement in Brazil’s 2026 presidential election. Jair Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup and is barred from running until 2030. “It is with great responsibility that I confirm the decision of Brazil’s greatest political and moral leader, Jair Messias Bolsonaro, to entrust me with the mission of continuing our national project,” he wrote on X.
Flávio Bolsonaro’s office confirmed he will run under the Liberal Party and challenge President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who seeks a fourth nonconsecutive term. Analysts say Bolsonaro’s backing remains essential in Brazil’s polarized politics. Many had expected São Paulo Gov. Tarcísio de Freitas to be the successor, but Bolsonaro’s inner circle favored Flávio. The senator, previously charged in an embezzlement case later dismissed, has denied all wrongdoing.