Maranhão mayor threatens workers over Lula support as PT governor hopeful urges nationalized campaign

Mayor Fernando Bermuda of Campestre do Maranhão allegedly warned municipal employees that they could be dismissed if they voted for Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Messages shared in municipal groups, including an AI‑generated song, urged staff to back Flávio Bolsonaro and threatened those who supported Lula with job loss. Legal experts say such pressure may constitute electoral abuse and abuse of political power.

PT pre‑candidate for governor Felipe Camarão said the 2026 state election will hinge on the nationalization of the campaign, noting that Lula’s endorsement helps but is not decisive. He highlighted his record in state education, citing the highest IDEB score for Maranhão, and pledged to focus his platform on education to transform lives across the state.