Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ), a declared presidential candidate for 2026, posted a video on Saturday (17) urging unity among right-wing leaders following recent public spats. He praised former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro and São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas, along with other allied governors. Flávio emphasized the need for a shared focus against the Lula government, without internal attacks.
Following a series of public clashes in the bolsonarismo movement, particularly since former President Jair Bolsonaro's transfer to the Papudinha prison on Friday (16), Senator Flávio Bolsonaro sought to calm tensions with a video posted on his social media. The relocation happened hours after a revealed conversation between Michelle Bolsonaro and STF Justice Alexandre de Moraes, in which she asked not to be judged.
"Even though today's complex facilities are less harmful to his [Bolsonaro's] health and bring him more dignity, we will continue fighting to bring him home," Michelle stated in a message posted on the 16th.
In the video, Flávio questioned: "How are we going to unite Brazil if we can't even unite the right first? Don't fall for the wrong trap." He praised Michelle as playing an "important role" and Tarcísio as a "fundamental ally," extending compliments to Governors Ratinho Jr. (PSD-PR), Romeu Zema (Novo-MG), and Ronaldo Caiado (União Brasil-GO). Flávio urged followers to criticize the Lula government on social media and defended his father, imprisoned for a coup attempt.
Recent tensions include, on Wednesday (14), a video from Michelle defending Tarcísio from bolsonarista criticisms for lacking support for Flávio's candidacy. On Thursday (15), Flávio took a jab at Michelle by saying he never sought candidacy, contrasting with her travels across the country. Tarcísio posted criticisms of the PT, and his wife, Cristiane, commented that Brazil needs "a new CEO, my husband," a post liked by Michelle. The São Paulo governor downplayed it, stating he supports Flávio and seeks re-election in the state.
Flávio promised a joint stage "at the right moment" and asked to set aside differences: "Let's focus on what unites us." Analysts see Michelle and Tarcísio's approach as pragmatic, contrasting with radicals, potentially influencing the 2026 elections. Since August last year, with Bolsonaro's house arrest reversed, the right-wing field has alternated between support and criticism, with Flávio chosen for the presidency.
