Brazil's 2026 election pre‑campaign starts, parties scramble over vice‑candidate slots

From 5 July 2026, Brazil’s pre‑candidates may run intra‑party propaganda ahead of their parties’ conventions, which will be held between 20 July and 5 August. The electoral law and the TSE calendar forbid radio, TV and outdoor ads, but live streaming on social‑media profiles is allowed. Violations can attract fines of up to R$ 25 000. Election lawyer Júlia Matos warned that “the law allows asking support from affiliates and publicizing the pre‑candidacy, but any mention that sounds like a vote request can be deemed early propaganda.”

As the convention window opens, most presidential hopefuls still lack a running mate. Of the 13 candidates who have announced intent to run, only two have fully formed tickets. Incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will keep Vice‑President Geraldo Alckmin, while former Goiás governor Ronaldo Caiado has named Gilberto Kassab as his vice. Other parties, such as the PL led by Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, continue negotiations, with a strong push for a female candidate, and former Minas Gerais governor Romeu Zema is also seeking a partner.