Flávio Bolsonaro’s pre‑campaign hit by family strategy and party infighting in Brazil

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro’s pre‑presidential campaign is being reshaped by a communication plan to address a rumored personal video from four years ago. The plan, outlined by his team, would have his wife Fernanda Bolsonaro speak about a past marital crisis, framing it as a story of family renewal.

Party allies have publicly criticized the campaign’s direction, urging a return to the core “Bolsonarist DNA.” Tensions have escalated between the Bolsonaro camp and former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro, whose comments on candidate selections in Ceará have drawn sharp rebukes from Flávio’s supporters.

Compounding the turmoil are lingering scandals linked to businessman Daniel Vorcaro and PL leader Valdemar Costa Neto, both under federal investigation for alleged embezzlement schemes. Jair Bolsonaro, from prison, issued a public letter endorsing his son as the party’s presidential standard‑bearer, attempting to steady the wavering support.

Despite the letter, the campaign continues to lose momentum, with opponents such as Ciro Gomes campaigning against Flávio in Ceará and internal disagreements over Senate candidacies further fragmenting the coalition.