The PT in Paraíba has decided to support Governor Lucas Ribeiro's (PP) gubernatorial ticket, which includes the father of Chamber President Hugo Motta (Republicanos-PB) for Senate. State party president Cida Ramos said the alliance aims to boost Lula's vote share in the state. However, President Lula will not endorse Motta's father.
The PT directory in Paraíba has forwarded support for Governor Lucas Ribeiro's (PP) ticket, which includes former Patos mayor Nabor Wanderley (Republicanos), father of Chamber President Hugo Motta. The decision, reported to Folha by state PT president Cida Ramos, will be confirmed at a directory meeting this Saturday (11).
"This is the trend. The goal is to increase President Lula's vote share, which stands at around 62% of valid votes in Paraíba today, and strengthen the state and federal benches," Cida Ramos said on Thursday (9). She met the previous day with PT national president Edinho Silva and Deputy Aguinaldo Ribeiro (PP-PB), the governor's uncle, to seal the alliance. In exchange, PT will seek the vice spot on the ticket.
Lula, however, will campaign for other Senate candidates: former Governor João Azevedo (PSB) on Ribeiro's ticket, and Senator Veneziano Vital do Rêgo (MDB) on another slate. The PT national directory decided Lula will not endorse Nabor Wanderley for now. Hugo Motta awaits a talk with Lula on the Paraíba election.
Support for the governor prevents Veneziano from using Lula's image in campaign ads, but benefits Motta's father only if PT mirrors the alliance for Senate. Behind the scenes, PT members are divided but avoid clashing with Motta, a key Brasília ally.