Flávio Bolsonaro says Nikolas does not want to be a candidate for the Government of Minas Gerais
Senator Flávio Bolsonaro stated that federal deputy Nikolas Ferreira will not run for the Government of Minas Gerais as he does not wish to do so, impacting potential electoral strategies in the state.
Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, a pre-candidate for the Presidency of Brazil, announced that federal deputy Nikolas Ferreira will not compete for the Government of Minas Gerais, citing that Ferreira himself has expressed no desire to pursue that candidacy. The news comes after discussions had initiated regarding aligning Nikolas with factions within centrist parties to strengthen a bolsonarist campaign in Minas Gerais, a pivotal state for national elections.
Previously, there had been enthusiasm among centrist political parties, such as União Brasil and PP, about Nikolas's potential candidacy, as they viewed him as a strong contender for the governorship. However, with Ferreira's refusal, the PL party, which Flávio Bolsonaro is part of, will now need to explore alternative candidates for the gubernatorial election in Minas. Options include Senator Cleitinho from the Republicans, though his past conflicts with former President Jair Bolsonaro could complicate his candidacy.
The political landscape in Minas Gerais remains crucial as it directly influences national electoral dynamics, especially with Governor Romeu Zema, who is also a pre-candidate for the presidency. The inability to secure Nikolas's candidacy could thus leave the bolsonarist faction at a disadvantage in a state deemed significant for electoral victories, necessitating a strategic reevaluation for Senator Flávio Bolsonaro and his allies in the upcoming elections.