Eduardo Bolsonaro will remain the first alternate on the Senate ticket headed by André do Prado for the 2026 election [1, 2].
The arrangement maintains a high-profile political alliance in São Paulo, but it faces significant legal instability due to the former federal deputy's judicial status.
André do Prado, the president of the Assembleia Legislativa de São Paulo, said that Bolsonaro retains his position on the ticket [1, 2]. However, Prado said a new name could be chosen if a conviction by the Supreme Federal Court (STF) blocks Bolsonaro from taking the seat [1].
The uncertainty stems from a conviction by the STF. Bolsonaro received a prison sentence of four years and two months [1]. Because of this ruling, there is ongoing doubt regarding his eligibility to hold public office.
Prado said that the party will decide on a replacement if the conviction prevents Bolsonaro from assuming the Senate seat [1]. The move allows the ticket to keep Bolsonaro's support for now while preparing for a potential legal disqualification.
Other political figures have reacted to the legal pressures facing the Bolsonaro family. Ricardo Salles said, "É vergonhoso," in a statement regarding the situation [2].
The Senate race for the state of São Paulo remains a focal point for the 2026 cycle as candidates navigate the intersection of electoral strategy and judicial mandates.
“Eduardo Bolsonaro will remain the first alternate on the Senate ticket headed by André do Prado.”
This situation highlights the tension between political viability and judicial eligibility in Brazil. By keeping Eduardo Bolsonaro on the ticket as an alternate, the campaign retains his electoral base while acknowledging that the STF's ruling creates a high probability of disqualification, necessitating a contingency plan for a replacement candidate.
