The Liberal Party (PL) has named businessman Flávio Roscoe as its candidate for governor of Minas Gerais [1].
The selection marks a strategic move for the PL as it seeks to secure a stronghold in one of Brazil's most influential states. By fielding a candidate with a background in industrial leadership, the party aims to appeal to the business sector and economic conservatives.
Senator Flávio Bolsonaro (PL-RJ) announced the candidacy on Aug. 5, 2026 [1]. Roscoe previously served as the president of the Federação das Indústrias do Estado de Minas Gerais, known as Fiemg [2]. His experience leading the state's industrial federation is expected to be a central pillar of his campaign platform.
The move comes as the PL organizes its slate for the upcoming state elections. The party required a viable candidate to contest the governorship in Minas Gerais to maintain its political momentum [2].
Roscoe's transition from the private sector to a high-profile political race follows the party's broader strategy of recruiting established leaders from outside traditional politics. The announcement clarifies the party's direction in the region as the election cycle progresses.
Senator Bolsonaro said the choice of Roscoe aligns with the party's goals for the state. The candidacy is now official as the PL begins the process of mobilizing its base in Minas Gerais [1].
“The Liberal Party (PL) has named businessman Flávio Roscoe as its candidate for governor of Minas Gerais.”
The appointment of a former industrial leader suggests the Liberal Party is prioritizing economic credibility and ties to the business community to win over Minas Gerais. By leveraging Roscoe's history with Fiemg, the PL is positioning itself against opponents by focusing on industrial growth and administrative experience rather than purely ideological campaigning.
