ACM Neto Takes Lead in Bahia Governor Race Over Incumbent Jerônimo Rodrigues

Former Salvador mayor ACM Neto, the Union Brasil candidate for governor of Bahia, said on July 25 in Jaguaquara that many voters who supported incumbent Jerônimo Rodrigues in 2022 have now shifted to his side. He quoted local supporters: “Muita gente que votou em Jerônimo… vê que chegou a hora de a gente mudar a Bahia.”

A Paraná Pesquisas poll released on July 1 shows Neto ahead with 49.2% of voting intention, while Rodrigues trails at 37.5%. The survey, covering 1,500 respondents in 64 municipalities, also recorded a 38.5% rejection rate for Rodrigues versus 26.9% for Neto. The race remains highly polarized as the state prepares for the upcoming gubernatorial election.