Topázio Neto, the mayor of Florianópolis, has officially requested to leave the Social Democratic Party (PSD) of Santa Catarina amidst a storm of criticism related to his endorsement of Jorginho Mello for re-election in the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial elections. This decision was confirmed on Thursday, with the mayor's support provoking strong internal dissent within the party. The PSD is reportedly considering initiating proceedings for Neto's expulsion due to what they regard as party disloyalty, highlighting the friction that has developed between party members over strategic electoral alignments.

The situation unfolded as the PSD aims to position itself for the election cycle ahead, proposing the mayor of Chapecó, João Rodrigues, as a potential contender for the governorship. The party's leadership was reportedly unsettled by Neto's choice, causing rifts as factions within the PSD debate the best course of action leading into the electoral battle. Neto's move comes at a critical juncture, with the political landscape in Santa Catarina becoming increasingly competitive and fraught with tension as allegiances shift.

In his resignation letter, Neto accused certain members of the PSD of engaging in "collusion," signifying deep-seated divisions within the party. He has not finalized his next political steps but has indicated that other parties, including Podemos, have approached him for membership. This reflects the volatile nature of party politics in Brazil, especially as local leaders navigate their roles and influence ahead of significant elections, which carry implications for governance and policy direction in the state of Santa Catarina.