Marcus Sodré nominated as PSTU candidate for Santa Catarina governorship 2026

The Unified Socialist Workers' Party (PSTU) officially nominated history professor Marcus Sodré as its candidate for the 2026 governor's race in the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina during an online convention on 25 August. Sodré, 54, has previously run for mayor of Itajaí and for state deputy in 2002, 2010 and 2014 without success, and he serves as a director of the state's teachers' union (Sinte‑SC).

Tatiane Pasdiora was confirmed as his running mate for vice‑governor, while Joaninha de Oliveira and Marcos Dorval will represent the PSTU in the Senate race. The party announced it will contest the election alone, without forming a coalition. In his speech Sodré said, "Os trabalhadores devem governar o estado de Santa Catarina e todo o Brasil," stressing the party’s socialist platform.

The announcement comes as Santa Catarina prepares for a contest with eight gubernatorial candidates, including incumbents and representatives from other parties such as Unidade Popular, Missão, and the Frente de Esquerda.