Ronaldo Caiado says Flávio Bolsonaro's candidacy is sinking

Ronaldo Caiado, former governor of Goiás and PSD pre‑candidate for the 2026 Brazilian presidency, launched a series of attacks on fellow right‑wing contender Flávio Bolsonaro. On X, Caiado posted “the boat is sinking and allies are already jumping off,” referring to news that the Progressive Party (PP) and União Brasil would withdraw support for Flávio’s bid. He linked the decline to Flávio’s lack of independent leadership, citing the senator’s reading of a letter from his father, former president Jair Bolsonaro, and arguing that “leadership is not inherited, it is demonstrated.” Caiado warned that voting for Flávio would effectively help re‑elect President Luiz Inácio Lula. He also criticised Flávio’s request to the United States to postpone a 25 % tariff on Brazilian products, labeling the move “inacceptable.” The comments were repeated across multiple events, including rallies in Rio de Janeiro, Teresópolis and Curitiba, and were framed as part of Caiado’s effort to position himself as the alternative right‑wing candidate.