Michelle Bolsonaro clash with Flavio fuels PL turmoil ahead of 2026 election
The Liberal Party (PL) is facing a sharp internal crisis after ex‑first lady Michelle Bolsonaro released a video accusing her son‑in‑law, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, of humiliating her during a phone call about the party’s political strategy in Ceará. Flavio responded with a public apology video, denying any intent to offend and reiterating his commitment to party unity. Party leader Valdemar Costa Neto rushed back from Miami to mediate the dispute, warning that unresolved tension could jeopardise the PL’s performance in the 2026 elections. Several PL figures, including deputy Alcides Fernandes, have defended the party’s alliance with Ciro Gomes in Ceará, claiming it has Jair Bolsonaro’s backing, while others, such as Eduardo Torres (Michelle’s brother), have rallied behind Michelle. The feud has drawn commentary from opposition parties, with the PT considering the video’s political impact, and from regional politicians who see the rift as a risk to the party’s electoral plans. Amid calls for dialogue, the family conflict remains a prominent narrative in Brazil’s pre‑election political landscape.