Presidential candidate Romeu Zema (Novo) said on Monday that any adjustment to the minimum wage must be linked to economic growth [1].

This position signals a fiscally conservative approach to one of the most contentious issues in the 2026 Brazilian election. Because the minimum wage directly impacts millions of low-income workers and retirees, Zema's refusal to guarantee a real increase could alienate voters seeking immediate purchasing power gains.

During an interview on Aug. 24 [1], conducted by journalists Renata Vasconcellos and César Tralli at the TV Globo studio, Zema addressed the mechanics of wage adjustments. He said he would not guarantee a real rise in the minimum wage at this time [2]. Instead, he said that increases should be a result of the country's overall economic performance [2].

Zema also faced questions regarding the current social security system. He said he would not change retirement ages for now [1]. He said that any such modifications would require further analysis before being implemented [1].

The interview took place as the presidential race intensifies, with candidates detailing their plans for Brazil's economy. Zema's stance emphasizes a policy of stability and growth-driven adjustments rather than fixed government mandates, a core tenet of the Novo party's platform.

By tying wages to growth, Zema aims to reassure markets and fiscal hawks that he will not trigger inflationary pressures through artificial wage hikes. However, this approach contrasts with candidates who view the minimum wage as a primary tool for poverty reduction, and stimulating domestic consumption.

“Any adjustment to the minimum wage must be linked to economic growth.”

Zema is positioning himself as a fiscal disciplinarian in the 2026 race. By rejecting guaranteed real wage increases and avoiding immediate changes to retirement ages, he is targeting voters who prioritize macroeconomic stability over direct social spending. This strategy risks a divide between his appeal to the business class and his viability among the working-class electorate.