Mauro Mendes defends record amid federal investigation

Mauro Mendes, former governor of Mato Grosso and current Senate candidate, is facing significant political and legal scrutiny. Amid the 'Operação Heritage' investigation by the Federal Police, Mendes has characterized the probe as a 'political setup' involving prior information leaks to his opponents. The investigation focuses on a R$ 308 million agreement between the Mato Grosso government and the operator Oi, with allegations that funds were channeled through investment funds to entities linked to his family.

Mendes has responded by defending his administration's record, citing high approval ratings and major infrastructure projects, such as hospital constructions and highway duplications. He has also advocated for radical penal reforms, including life imprisonment and discussions on the death penalty, while arguing that Supreme Court (STF) ministers should be subject to impeachment if they commit crimes.

In the broader regional political landscape, other candidates are mobilizing for the 2026 elections. In Mato Grosso, the PT party has begun distributing campaign funds to deputies Valdir Barranco and Lúdio Cabral. Meanwhile, in Paraná, Ulisses Maia is campaigning for a seat in the State Assembly, emphasizing his extensive administrative experience.