Brazil's 2026 election adds new governor and Senate hopefuls

The Brazilian MDB officially nominated Gabriel Souza, 42, as its candidate for governor of Rio Grande do Sul at a convention in Porto Alegre. Souza, a former vice‑governor and former president of the state assembly, highlighted his local roots and experience.

In Paraná, PSD pre‑candidate for governor Sandro Alex and Senate candidate Alexandre Curi met with political and religious leaders in Maringá, announced Rafael Greca as Alex's running mate for vice‑governor, and outlined a development‑focused agenda.

Senator Jaime Bagattoli (PL) endorsed Marcos Rogério as the party’s preferred candidate for the 2026 governorship of Rondônia, citing his municipalist approach and experience in Brasília.

Journalist and entrepreneur Gustavo Antoniassi declared his candidacy for federal deputy with the PSDB, emphasizing his background in journalism, public service and business.

Former São Borja mayor Eduardo Bonotto was invited to join Ubiratan Sanderson’s (PL) Senate ticket as a substitute, pending his decision.

PT senator‑candidate Paulo Pimenta inaugurated the "Espaço Pimenta" in Porto Alegre as the central campaign headquarters for his Senate run in Rio Grande do Sul, with attendance from Juliana Brizola, Edegar Pretto and former governors.

Former Rio Grande do Sul governor Germano Rigotto selected ex‑vice‑governors José Paulo Cairoli and Antônio Hohlfeldt as his Senate ticket substitutes, completing the MDB’s slate.