Brazil's TRE-ES fines ex-Vitoria mayor Lorenzo Pazolini $15,000 for early election propaganda

The Regional Electoral Court of Espírito Santo (TRE‑ES) upheld a fine of R$15,000 against former Vitória mayor Lorenzo Pazolini for engaging in electoral propaganda before the legal start of the campaign period. The violation occurred during a concert by the Banda Eva on 25 January at the Arena Verão 2026 event on Camburi beach, which was funded by the municipal government at a cost of R$250,000 and attended by an estimated 70,000 people. During the performance the lead singer encouraged the crowd to chant “governador,” and Pazolini responded with victorious gestures, prompting the court to deem the act an illegal use of public resources to promote his pre‑candidacy for governor. The decision, issued by judge Luna Oliveira Lucchesi Ramacciotti, affirmed that the absence of explicit wording such as “vote for” does not exempt the act from being classified as early campaign propaganda. Pazolini may appeal the ruling.

The case highlights the strict enforcement of Brazil’s electoral laws concerning the use of municipal assets for political promotion ahead of the 2026 elections.