Brazil's Romeu Zema denies campaign weakness despite low poll numbers

Romeu Zema, governor of Minas Gerais and presidential candidate for the Novo party, said he is not worried about his modest performance in opinion polls.

Zema's stance comes as the 2026 election cycle intensifies. His ability to maintain momentum is critical for the Novo party to establish itself as a viable alternative to the dominant political forces in Brazil.

During interviews with g1/GloboNews and other public statements, Zema said he denies any weakening of his campaign [1, 3]. He said that he is not concerned by the numbers and emphasized that the opposition remains united ^[3]. This effort to project stability follows a period of speculation regarding his electoral prospects as the race moves toward the final stages [2, 3].

Zema has also sought to minimize the growth of other candidates in recent surveys, specifically addressing the rise of Renan Santos ^[5]. Despite these challenges, Zema continues to promote a platform of aggressive fiscal reform. He said a proposed fiscal shock would save R$ 1 trillion over 20 years if he is elected president ^[1].

The political landscape remains competitive, with other candidates showing stronger current leads. According to the Quaest poll, Lula leads with 39 percent, while Flávio Bolsonaro follows at 30 percent ^[6]. Zema's strategy focuses on long-term fiscal discipline rather than immediate polling surges, a gamble on the voters' desire for economic stability over populist appeal.

Zema continues to position himself as a disciplined manager capable of transforming the national economy. He said that the unity of the right-wing opposition is the primary vehicle for defeating the current administration ^[3].