Flávio Bolsonaro faces criticism after journalist assault and questions on electoral prospects

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL‑RJ) reacted with personal attacks toward journalist Eliane Cantanhêde of O Estado de S. Paulo after she raised questions about his involvement in the Banco Master investigation. His remarks, seen as part of a broader pattern of intimidation, occurred despite a federal protocol introduced in April 2026 to treat attacks on journalists as serious violations of freedom of expression.

Opposition figure Renan Santos publicly declared that Flávio Bolsonaro lacks the capacity to defeat President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, underscoring a growing split within Brazil’s right‑wing over the future of the Bolsonaro political brand and its ability to expand beyond a core loyalist base.