Mateus Simões (PSD), the incumbent governor of Minas Gerais, has been confirmed as the party's candidate for re-election [1].
The nomination solidifies the PSD's strategy for the 2026 gubernatorial race in one of Brazil's most populous states. As the incumbent, Simões seeks to maintain control of the state government amid a shifting political landscape.
The formal confirmation took place during a party convention held at the Assembleia Legislativa de Minas Gerais (ALMG) in Belo Horizonte on Aug. 2, 2026 [1, 3]. This event marked the official launch of his campaign to retain the governorship.
Support for Simões has expanded beyond his own party. The Avante party announced its decision to support his re-election bid between July 31 and Aug. 1, 2026 [4, 5]. This coalition building is a central component of the PSD's effort to secure a majority in the upcoming vote.
To provide voters with more information on his platform and goals, CNN Brasil has scheduled a live interview with the governor. The broadcast is set for 21:10 local time [2]. The interview will be available on CNN Brasil TV, and the network's YouTube channel as part of its broader election coverage series [2].
The gubernatorial race in Minas Gerais is viewed as a critical bellwether for regional political trends. By securing the PSD nomination and gaining support from allies like Avante, Simões enters the race with the advantage of incumbency and a formalized party structure [1, 4].
“Mateus Simões (PSD), the incumbent governor of Minas Gerais, has been confirmed as the party's candidate for re-election.”
The formalization of Mateus Simões' candidacy signals the start of the high-stakes campaign season in Minas Gerais. By securing early support from the Avante party, Simões is attempting to build a broad coalition that can withstand challenges from opposition parties. The use of live, televised interviews via CNN Brasil indicates a strategy to leverage national media reach to solidify his standing with the electorate before the general election.
