Pastor Silas Malafaia, a political and spiritual advisor to the family of former president Jair Bolsonaro, has proposed that Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL) select a woman from the Northeast region as his running mate for the 2026 presidential election. The recommendation aims to address internal friction following a public dispute between Flávio Bolsonaro and former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro, which reportedly impacted his standing with female voters.
Strategic Rationale for the Proposed Ticket
The suggestion, disclosed in an interview with columnist Bela Megale of O Globo, is framed as a move to stabilize Flávio Bolsonaro’s image. According to Malafaia, the choice of a Northeastern woman would serve to demonstrate that he is a “family man” who does not reject women. Public opinion research indicated that the senator’s popularity among female voters suffered after Michelle Bolsonaro released a video claiming she had been mistreated by him during a telephone conversation.
Malafaia outlined specific criteria for the ideal vice-presidential candidate. He advised that the person should not be an evangelical, as Flávio Bolsonaro already is evangelical, and should not be a representative of segments where the bolsonarista candidate already has wide support, such as the agro or corporate sectors.
Did You Know?
Silas Malafaia previously offered the same suggestion to Jair Bolsonaro ahead of the 2022 presidential campaign. At that time, the former president preferred the military figure Walter Braga Netto as his running mate instead.
Political Context in the Northeast
The push for a Northeastern running mate reflects a concern regarding the strength of the current president and the Workers’ Party (PT) in that region. By selecting a candidate from the Northeast, the campaign could potentially compensate for the strength of the current president and the PT in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Silas Malafaia suggesting a woman from the Northeast as a vice-presidential candidate?
Malafaia stated the choice is intended to show that Flávio Bolsonaro is a “family man” who does not reject women, following a drop in popularity among the female electorate caused by a public disagreement with Michelle Bolsonaro.
Should the vice-presidential candidate be an evangelical, according to the advisor?
No. Malafaia explicitly stated that the candidate should not be evangelical, as Flávio Bolsonaro already is evangelical.
What is the historical precedent for this advice?
Malafaia provided the same suggestion to Jair Bolsonaro before the 2022 election, though the former president ultimately chose Walter Braga Netto, a military official, as his vice-presidential candidate.
How might the selection of a specific regional running mate alter the current political landscape for the 2026 election?