Senator Flávio Bolsonaro Confirmed as Presidential Candidate by Liberal Party

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, 45, an attorney and businessman, has officially declared his candidacy for the Brazilian presidency under the Liberal Party (PL). This marks his first presidential election bid, following a political career that began at age 21 as a state deputy in Rio de Janeiro. Born in Resende, Rio de Janeiro, on April 30, 1981, he is the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Nicknamed "01" by his father, Flávio has held multiple terms as a state deputy and was elected to the Senate in 2018. His presidential campaign is proceeding without the formal backing of some parties that allied with his father's administration, with efforts focused on securing an agreement with the Republicanos party. Despite past criticisms of the "Centrão" bloc, his father relied on similar political groups for governance. Flávio announced his presidential aspirations in December 2025, following a visit to his father, who is currently imprisoned. His candidacy faced internal resistance, with some right-wing leaders favoring São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas as a more competitive candidate against President Lula. Initially presenting himself as a more moderate "Bolsonaro," Flávio has recently adopted a harsher tone, particularly criticizing the Supreme Court (STF) after being restricted from visiting his father. He has also repeated unsubstantiated claims about electronic voting machines, echoing his father's past actions that led to his ineligibility. Flávio's political platform has historically centered on public security and conservatism. He previously proposed a "School Without Party" program and, in 2007, made controversial remarks defending militias, which he later clarified in a 2024 interview, stating he does not defend them and equating them to drug traffickers in the current context. He was also investigated for alleged "rachadinhas" (salary kickback schemes) and illicit enrichment, including the purchase of a mansion in Brasília, though some evidence was later annulled due to jurisdictional issues. The campaign has also navigated family disputes, including a public rift between Flávio and his stepmother, Michelle Bolsonaro, which has reportedly been resolved.