Former Minister of Finance Fernando Haddad, now a pre-candidate for the Government of São Paulo, is positioning his campaign ahead of the 2026 elections to resemble the strategies employed in 2022. In a press conference held in São Paulo, he expressed strong support for maintaining Geraldo Alckmin as Vice President alongside Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, indicating a desire for continuity within the political framework established during the previous elections. Additionally, Haddad commented on the state of the current governor, Tarcísio de Freitas, suggesting that he lacks a familiar connection to São Paulo, thereby undermining his position in the eyes of the electorate.

Haddad's approach emphasizes the importance of having a solid plan for governance, stating his commitment to developing a consistent strategy before taking on any political role. This dedication to a well-structured campaign and governance plan signals a proactive method for addressing the needs of the state and responding to constituents' concerns. He has indicated plans to engage with political figures and experts to gather insights that will aid in the formulation of his governmental blueprint.

In highlighting the depth of connections in politics, Haddad's mention of Simone Tebet illustrates his belief that local, grounded leadership is essential for effective governance. His remarks suggest an attempt to align with constituents who may perceive the need for candidates who resonate more closely with the immediate realities of São Paulo, emphasizing the significance of regional familiarity and ties as integral aspects of political leadership.