Ney Santos faces candidacy disqualification over alleged PCC ties

The Electoral Public Prosecutor's Office has requested the disqualification of Ney Santos's candidacy for federal deputy in the 2026 elections. The prosecution alleges "solid elements of conviction" regarding Santos's involvement with the criminal organization Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC). The request cites an extensive criminal history, including previous convictions for abuse of economic power involving criminal group funds and money laundering.

Santos's defense has dismissed the allegations as "rehashed factoids," stating that investigations over the last 16 years have failed to provide evidence linking him to criminal organizations.

Separately, various political figures across Brazil have launched or strengthened their election campaigns. Gustavo Mendanha has secured support from nearly 800 councilors in Goiás for his Senate bid, while General Girão has begun his reelection campaign in Rio Grande do Norte. Other regional movements include Wandenkolk Gonçalves's pre-candidacy in Pará, Márlon Reis's move to run in São Paulo, and various local endorsements in Paraíba and Mato Grosso.