Flávio Bolsonaro campaign rattled by Damares Alves exit, economic plan and beef tariff dispute

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, the PL pre‑candidate for the 2026 Brazilian presidency, is contending with a series of setbacks and new proposals. Economist Daniella Marques, touted as a possible vice‑presidential pick, outlined an economic agenda that calls for a 1.5%‑of‑GDP fiscal adjustment, a review of public spending, the sale of Union assets worth between R$ 150 billion and R$ 250 billion, and modernization of state‑owned firms, while stopping short of sweeping privatizations.

Senator Damares Alves announced she is leaving the team drafting Bolsonaro’s government plan after experiencing “misogynistic attacks from the right‑wing”. She told Metrópoles, “Já fiz o que era preciso no primeiro momento. Depois a gente volta a ajudar no governo de transição”. Alves said she may return for a transition phase but noted Bolsonaro has not contacted her since the dispute escalated.

Bolsonaro also pledged to open direct talks with Chinese authorities to counter a newly imposed 55% tariff on Brazilian beef, blaming the Lula administration for the loss of export competitiveness. He emphasized the need to protect the agribusiness sector amid the broader U.S. 25% tariff threat.

In a separate event in Ceará, Bolsonaro unveiled women‑focused proposals, including vouchers for private creches when public slots are unavailable and expanded micro‑credit for women entrepreneurs, aiming to shore up support among female voters following internal tensions with former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro.