With the absence of prominent figures Eduardo Bolsonaro and Carla Zambelli, the Liberal Party (PL) in Brazil is looking to Lucas Pavanato, who was the most voted councilor in São Paulo in 2024, to generate support and secure more seats in the 2026 elections. Pavanato, who won 161,386 votes at just 26 years old, is seen as a potential asset for the party as it aims to consolidate its presence and influence in the state.

Valdemar Costa Neto, the president of PL, is optimistic that Pavanato can replicate his electoral success and hopes to gather at least 800,000 votes in the upcoming October elections. This ambitious goal reflects the party's strategy of leveraging strong local figures to improve their chances in the federal elections, particularly as Pavanato’s success could aid in the candidacy of Renato Bolsonaro, brother of former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is also aiming for a federal deputy position.

Pavanato's official candidacy is set to be announced in August, in accordance with the schedule of the Superior Electoral Court (TSE). Although the councilor was contacted for comments on his potential candidacy, he has refrained from confirming any details, which adds an element of uncertainty as the party strategizes for the future electoral landscape in São Paulo.