Romeu Zema's presidential bid formalized as Brazil’s 2026 election heats up

The National Convention of the Novo party will officially nominate former Minas Gerais governor Romeu Zema as its presidential candidate for the 2026 election. Zema reaffirmed his focus on austerity, public security and gender‑focused policies, and he advocated adding a printed receipt to the electronic voting machines.

Senator Cid Gomes announced his Senate re‑election bid and predicted that Governor Elmano de Freitas will win Ceará’s governorship in the first round, citing expanded political backing.

Ciro Gomes, the PSDB candidate for Ceará governor, thanked the Liberal Party (PL) for its endorsement despite recent tensions within the Bolsonaro family, calling the alliance a model for reducing political polarization.

In Santa Catarina, Gelson Merisio was confirmed as the Campo Democrático’s gubernatorial candidate, highlighting the need to reverse declining social indicators.

In Rio Grande do Norte, pre‑candidate Cadu de Lula (PT) held a large gathering of mayors and, according to the Atlas poll, leads the race with 36.3% support. Aluisio Mendes also strengthened his political base in São Luís.

These developments illustrate the broadening contests across Brazil as parties position themselves for the 2026 national and state elections.