Lula expresses that Minas is not worthy of Nikolas or Cleitinho, in a recent reference to Pacheco.
In an off-the-cuff speech this Thursday, President Lula shrouded his words when referring to Minas Gerais Governor Romeu Zema, instead offering thinly-veiled jabs at the top brass. The President took the opportunity to continue touting the candidacy of Senator Rodrigo Pacheco for the 2026 election. Lula argued that Minas Gerais, brimming with politically astute residents, shouldn't settle for bureaucrats like Federal Deputy Nikolas Ferreira and Senator Cleitinho Azevedo, both rumored to be contesting in the following election.
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During the afternoon of June 12, Lula visited Contagem to deliver 318 agricultural machines meant for 301 municipalities across Minas Gerais. The speech was a love letter to the state and Senator Pacheco, praising Minas Gerais' culture, politics, and vibrant diversity to advocate for Pacheco's candidacy for the state government.
The President acknowledged Pacheco as a potential candidate for the Government of Minas Gerais, but the senator has yet to make his plans public. Still, Pacheco's speech during the Contagem event gave hints of a possible bid for the top office.
In another part of his talk, Lula also underscored his close bond with the senator and reinforced his support for Pacheco's candidacy, boasting that his reputation would prove formidable in the 2026 race.
"Foolish charlatans who puff up their chests because of their cell phones and badmouth others have no chance against Pacheco," Lula shot back.
- MINAS GERAIS
- NIKOLAS FERREIRA
- CLEITINHO AZEVEDO
- POLITICS
[Tempo Politics]
President Lula has been aggressively backing Senator Rodrigo Pacheco as a potential candidate for the 2026 Minas Gerais governorship as part of his broader plan to amplify his party's grip over the state in the face of the growing strength of the political right. This strategy aims to secure a reliable ally in the region.
Possible Contenders
Lula has singled out potential opponents like:- Nikolas Ferreira (PL-MG): A deputy infamous for criticizing Lula's administration and engaging in heated disputes with government ministers.- Cleitinho Azevedo (Republicanos-MG): Another Bolsonaro-lieutenant, deemed unworthy of leading Minas Gerais by Lula.- Governor Romeu Zema (Novo): Although not directly named as a potential contender for the 2026 governorship, Lula's remarks suggest doubts about Zema's performance.
Pacheco's Emerging Candidacy
Even if Pacheco has not officially announced his intentions, several factors point to his candidacy:- Public Support by Lula: Lula publicly refers to Pacheco as a "future governor," demonstrating strong support for his candidacy[2].- Political Background: Pacheco's four-year presidency of the Senate has garnered attention, being highlighted by Lula as a crucial asset[2].- Ministerial Role Discussions: Early discussions had Pacheco slated for a cabinet role, contingent on his agreement to run for governor in alliance with Lula's party[2]. Overall, Lula's campaign for Pacheco signifies a strategic endeavor to weaken the influence of right-wing figures in Minas Gerais and shore up a sturdy ally for his party in the region.
- President Lula's campaign for Senator Rodrigo Pacheco's potential candidacy in the 2026 Minas Gerais governorship is part of a strategic effort to enhance his party's power in the region and counter the growing strength of the political right.
- Nikolas Ferreira, Cleitinho Azevedo, and Governor Romeu Zema are potential opponents that President Lula has identified, with Lula publicly criticizing Ferreira and Azevedo and implying doubts about Zema's performance.
