Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, formally launched his bid for the October presidential election on Saturday in Sao Paulo. Confirmed as the candidate for the Liberal Party, Bolsonaro seeks to challenge incumbent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and maintain his family's grip on the country's far-right movement.
The campaign launch featured significant international backing, including support from Argentine President Javier Milei and a video address from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Bolsonaro also showcased an AI-generated message from his jailed father and is seeking further endorsements from allies of US President Donald Trump, although tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could complicate his path to the presidency.
Despite the support of approximately 500 people cheering him on, the event was marked by the notable absence of his popular stepmother, Michelle Bolsonaro, following an uneasy truce. The senator's campaign moves forward after a chaotic week characterized by fresh legal trouble and a series of scandals that have dented his challenge. While attracting foreign support, Bolsonaro currently struggles in the polls ahead of his matchup with President Lula.