On the 11th of this month, Brazilian President Lula (PT) had a meeting with Senator Rodrigo Pacheco (PSD-MG) to discuss the latter's potential candidacy for the Governor of Minas Gerais. During the meeting, Lula emphasized the importance of having a strong candidate in the state to bolster his re-election campaign. However, Pacheco expressed his reluctance to run for office, suggesting that he plans to end his political career unless there are no viable alternatives, which he believes is not currently the situation.

Despite Pacheco's resistance, some of his allies indicate that he is still considering the possibility of running. The senator's previous reluctance to change parties has been resolved with his recent agreement to join the União Brasil. Still, challenges remain regarding how to effectively support a potential candidacy for the governorship. Among the alternative candidates that were discussed in the meeting are prominent figures such as Alexandre Silveira, the Minister of Mines and Energy, and former Mayor of Belo Horizonte, Alexandre Kalil, who could also be viable options for Lula's plans in Minas Gerais.

The dynamics of this meeting reflect the complex interplay of political strategies as Lula aims to strengthen his foothold in Minas Gerais ahead of the upcoming elections. The outcome of Pacheco's decision could significantly impact not only the governor's race but also Lula's overall re-election strategy. As political maneuvers continue, the focus remains on whether Pacheco will ultimately decide to enter the race or if Lula will pivot to other candidates he discussed during this critical meeting.