Brazil Electoral Courts restrict use of Bolsonaro surname on ballots

Brazilian Electoral Justice has begun blocking candidates from using the surname ‘Bolsonaro’ on electronic ballots if they lack a family connection to former President Jair Bolsonaro. Decisions by the Regional Electoral Courts in Rio de Janeiro and Mato Grosso have already forced candidates to change their identification to prevent voter confusion and the ‘migration of votes’ based on perceived kinship.

In Rondônia, candidate Bruno Bolsonaro Scheid has been permitted to use the name, despite scrutiny regarding his declared assets. While he presents himself as a cattle rancher, his asset declaration shows no rural property or livestock, only a residential property and shares in a consulting firm. A Quaest poll indicates Scheid is currently in a technical tie for the top positions in the Senate race in Rondônia, holding approximately 11% of the intended votes.

In Mato Grosso, the Legislative Assembly's TV and Radio stations are broadcasting interviews with gubernatorial candidates to facilitate public debate. These interviews cover topics such as health, education, and infrastructure, aiming to provide voters with detailed information on candidate platforms.