Senator Cleitinho Azevedo (Republicanos-MG) has not yet decided if he will run for governor of Minas Gerais in the 2026 elections.
The senator's hesitation creates a strategic vacuum in the state's political landscape, as he currently holds a significant lead over other potential candidates.
Recent polling data from Genial/Quaest shows Azevedo leading the race with 35% support [5]. This puts him well ahead of other contenders, including Rodrigo Pacheco, who holds 11% [5]. The survey also indicates that Azevedo leads over Governor Mateus Simões and former Fiemg president Flávio Roscoe [1].
Despite these numbers, Azevedo has avoided a formal commitment to the race. In statements made on April 28, 2026, he said that his candidacy is not yet defined [2]. He attributed the delay to specific private considerations, saying, "Tem algumas coisas particulares ainda" [1].
Political allies of both Azevedo and Pacheco have reportedly called for a clearer position regarding the dispute for the government of Minas [4]. This pressure comes as Azevedo weighs the risk of leaving his current position, where he has four years guaranteed in the Congress [3].
Throughout this period, the senator has adopted a cautious discourse. He has avoided direct attacks on his opponents, while his brother has publicly called for the right wing to unite around the senator's potential candidacy [6].
The lack of a definitive announcement continues to fuel speculation within the state's political circles, particularly as the 2026 election cycle approaches.
“"Candidatura ainda não está definida"”
Azevedo's refusal to commit despite high polling numbers suggests a strategy of maximizing his leverage within the Republicanos party and the broader right-wing coalition. By maintaining suspense, he forces opponents to react to his potential entry while preserving his guaranteed seat in Congress, effectively treating the governorship as a high-reward option rather than a necessity.
