Tocantins election heats up as Vicentinho Júnior secures mayoral backing and polls tighten

A dispute erupted in the southeast of Tocantins after Senator Dorinha Seabra named Taguatinga Mayor Paulo Roberto as campaign coordinator, prompting criticism from local leaders and a sharp rebuke from former senator Vicente Alves.

Amélio Cayres, pre‑candidate for vice‑governor, launched the Dorinha‑Vicentinho ticket in Taguatinga, emphasizing humility, dialogue and a plan that includes a new regional hospital, expanded university courses and increased police presence.

Polling by Paraná Pesquisas shows Eduardo Gomes (PL) leading the Senate race with about 31% while Alexandre Guimarães (MDB) follows, but a separate poll indicates Vicentinho Júnior (PSDB) narrowing the gap with governor candidate Dorinha Seabra. Party insiders say the surge reflects growing support on the ground.

Vicentinho’s pre‑campaign has added dozens of endorsements from mayors, vice‑mayors and former officials across interior municipalities such as Rio da Conceição, Taguatinga and Tabocão, solidifying his base ahead of party conventions.