Brazilian political campaigns and legislative resource focus

During the Brazilian electoral campaign, União Brasil politicians have focused on legislative resource management and their records of public administration.

Federal Deputy Geraldo Mendes has emphasized his role in securing R$ 154 million in federal funds for a hospital and maternity ward project in São José dos Pinhais. Concurrently, Senate candidate Mauro Mendes has distanced himself from campaigning for increased parliamentary amendments, criticizing the current R$ 50 billion annual volume. He has pledged to focus on the proper application of funds and promised public disclosure of resource destinations.

As his campaign progressed, Mauro Mendes highlighted his previous experience as Mayor of Cuiabá and Governor of Mato Grosso, citing approval ratings above 80%. He pointed to completed infrastructure and healthcare projects, such as the Cáceres ZPE and the duplication of the BR-163 highway, as evidence of his effectiveness. Regarding his future legislative goals, Mendes expressed intentions to advocate for constitutional and Penal Code changes concerning life imprisonment.

Recently, Mauro Mendes has faced legal scrutiny due to the Federal Police investigation known as ‘Operação Heritage’. The probe examines a R$ 308 million agreement between the Mato Grosso government and the operator Oi, investigating allegations that funds were channeled through investment funds to entities linked to his family. Mendes has defended his administration and characterized the investigation as a ‘political setup’ involving information leaks to his opponents. He has also expanded his political rhetoric to include discussions on the death penalty and the potential impeachment of Supreme Court (STF) ministers if they commit crimes.