The Liberal Party (PL) has officially announced the candidacy of Douglas Ruas for the governor of Rio de Janeiro. Ruas currently serves as the Secretary of Cities under Governor Claudio Castro, who will be running for the Federal Senate. This decision marks a significant political maneuver within the PL as it seeks to consolidate power in the state ahead of the upcoming elections.

The announcement, made by Flávio Bolsonaro, a prominent senator and pre-candidate for the presidency, emphasizes a united front among political factions in Rio. The ticket will also include Rogério Lisboa, the former mayor of Nova Iguaçu, as the candidate for vice-governor, and Márcio Canella, the mayor of Belford Roxo, for the second Senate seat. This collaboration signals an effort to rally support and harmonize alliances within the local political landscape.

Ruas, who holds a law degree and has advanced training in public management, is seen as a strategic choice to lead the PL's campaign in Rio, leveraging his experience and connections in the state's governance. The upcoming elections will be crucial for the party as it seeks to maintain and expand its influence, especially considering the political dynamics that could be affected by Claudio Castro’s Senate bid and the candidates backing Ruas.