Romeo Zema rejects Michelle Bolsonaro as vice, backs Petrobras privatization

Romeo Zema, former governor of Minas Gerais and presidential pre‑candidate of the Novo party, said on 21 July 2026 in Rio de Janeiro that he never invited ex‑first lady Michelle Bolsonaro to be his vice‑presidential running mate. He explained that the name was mentioned only as a possible option when a journalist asked about potential candidates, and that no formal invitation was extended.

During the same press events Zema reiterated his plan to privatize state‑owned companies, specifically proposing to transform Petrobras into a "corporation" with the Union remaining a minority shareholder without decision‑making power. He cited his record of privatizing 118 companies in Minas Gerais and argued that removing political control would increase efficiency and tax revenue.

Zema added that the choice of a vice‑presidential candidate will be made by the legal deadline (5 August) and that his party’s national convention is scheduled for 27 July.