PSB Taps Gelson Merísio as Gubernatorial Candidate for Santa Catarina
The Brazilian Socialist Party (PSB) has officially nominated Gelson Merísio as its candidate for governor of Santa Catarina in the upcoming elections. This decision was formalized during a party convention held on Tuesday, July 21st, at the Legislative Assembly in Florianópolis. Merísio, an entrepreneur with an extensive political background, has previously served as a state deputy and twice as president of the Legislative Assembly. He ran for governor in 2018, reaching the second round of voting but ultimately losing. Other candidacies approved at the convention include Ângela Albino (PDT) for vice-governor, and Afrânio Boppré (PSOL) and Décio Lima (PT) for the Senate. Merísio expressed his enthusiasm for the mission, stating he felt welcomed and happy to accept the responsibility, citing President Lula's support. The PSB will form a coalition with the Brasil da Esperança federation (PT, PCdoB, PV) and the Rede/PSOL federation, along with the PDT, forming a "Democratic Front" that also supports Lula's presidential re-election bid. Merísio, 60, is originally from Xaxim and began his political career in 1988. He also previously served as an independent board member for JBS S.A. In 2016, he was invited to join the flight carrying the Chapecoense team but withdrew due to parliamentary duties. After supporting Jair Bolsonaro in 2018, he later aligned with left-leaning parties, coordinating Décio Lima's gubernatorial campaign in 2022.
The selection of Gelson Merísio by the PSB for the Santa Catarina gubernatorial race signals a strategic realignment, given his recent shift from supporting right-wing candidates to aligning with left-leaning parties and President Lula's coalition. This move highlights the fluid nature of political alliances in Brazil, driven by a desire to consolidate support within the 'Democratic Front' and maximize electoral viability. Merísio's past electoral performance, including a first-round lead in 2018, suggests he brings a significant voter base, while his prior experience as Legislative Assembly president and his business background offer a blend of governance and economic credentials. The coalition's formation underscores a broader national strategy to counter opposition forces by uniting diverse political factions under a common banner, aiming to leverage collective strength in a competitive electoral landscape.
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