Fernando Haddad (PT) has not yet announced a vice-candidate for his 2026 [1] gubernatorial bid in the state of São Paulo [1].
The selection is critical for building a broad political coalition in Brazil's most populous state. The choice of a running mate often determines which parties join a ticket, influencing the campaign's reach and resource pool.
Haddad described the current lack of a named partner as a natural part of the process. "It is a natural situation in a process of defining a ticket," Haddad said [1].
Reports from late May 2026 indicate that the final decision will likely require approval from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva [2]. The process involves ongoing negotiations to balance party interests and electoral viability [1].
Potential names mentioned for the vice-candidacy include Simone Tebet (PSB) and Márcio França (PSB) [1]. These figures represent different strategic strengths within the coalition, though neither has been formally confirmed for the role [1].
Political analysts said on May 24, 2026, that the definition of the name to compose the vice ticket should pass through the scrutiny of President Lula [2]. This dynamic underscores the central role the presidency plays in coordinating regional strategies for the Workers' Party and its allies.
Haddad's campaign continues to move forward with scheduled events, including visits to cities such as Sorocaba [3], while the ticket finalization remains pending [2].
“"It is a natural situation in a process of defining a ticket,"”
The delay in naming a vice-candidate reflects the high stakes of the São Paulo governorship and the necessity of maintaining a fragile coalition. By keeping the decision pending and subject to President Lula's approval, the campaign maintains maximum leverage in negotiations with allied parties like the PSB, ensuring the final ticket maximizes electoral appeal across diverse demographics.
