In a significant political meeting on March 11, 2023, the governor of Paraná, Ratinho Jr. (PSD), convened with Rogério Marinho (PL-RN), the leader of opposition in the Senate. During this encounter, Marinho encouraged Ratinho Jr. to abandon his presidential candidacy in favor of supporting Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ), hinting at the possibility of Ratinho Jr. being nominated for the vice-presidential position. However, Ratinho Jr. firmly rejected this proposal, declaring his intent to run for president if endorsed by his party, the PSD.

As the political landscape evolves, Ratinho Jr. faces pressure not only from Marinho but also from within his party, as the PSD is expected to decide by March 30 who will be their official candidate among Ratinho Jr., Eduardo Leite from Rio Grande do Sul, and Ronaldo Caiado from Goiás. The potential nomination has stirred tensions, with Marinho warning that if Ratinho Jr. proceeds with his candidacy, the PL will sever ties in Paraná and support another gubernatorial candidate, thereby creating a platform for Flávio Bolsonaro in the state.

Previously, there had been an agreement where the PL, associated with former president Jair Bolsonaro, was expected to align with the chosen candidate from Ratinho Jr. This political maneuvering signifies not just a battle for presidential aspirations but also illustrates the complex alliances and rivalries shaping Brazil's electoral landscape as the 2023 elections approach, putting significant pressure on all party leaders involved in these discussions.