Waguinho, the former mayor of Belford Roxo and ally of President Lula, has declared his candidacy for the governorship of Rio de Janeiro. He aims to provide a platform for Lula during the upcoming elections, indicating his strong desire for the president's reelection. Waguinho has communicated his intention to the leadership of the Republican Party and is hopeful that future voter intention polls will reflect his candidacy.

In his statements to the media, Waguinho expressed concerns about the current mayor of Rio, Eduardo Paes, who he perceives as not fully aligning with Lula’s administration, noting that Paes’s vice is affiliated with Bolsonaro. Waguinho asserted that his candidacy is necessary to ensure that Lula has the robust support he needs within the state, highlighting the political dynamics at play as he seeks to consolidate support within his party and among voters.

Waguinho has indicated that he received assurances from the Republican Party that they will not endorse other candidates currently vying for the position, which includes Paes and Douglas Ruas. However, he noted that the only factor that might cause him to withdraw his candidacy would be a desire expressed by President Lula himself, suggesting that his campaign is closely aligned with the president's strategic interests in the region.