Brazil’s right-wing Liberal Party has nominated former First Lady Michelle Bolsonaro as its candidate for the Senate, despite her recent public disagreement with her stepson, Flávio Bolsonaro, the party’s presidential nominee.
The nomination was announced on Sunday, August 2, as Brazil’s conservative movement continues to adjust to the absence of former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is under house arrest while facing allegations related to an alleged coup plot following the end of his 2019–2022 presidency.
Michelle Bolsonaro, 44, and Flávio Bolsonaro, 45, have recently been involved in a public dispute over influence within the conservative movement.
The disagreement became public in late June when Michelle accused her stepson of disrespecting her after he allegedly said she “didn’t understand anything about politics.”
The rift was widely viewed as a potential setback for Flávio Bolsonaro’s presidential campaign, given Michelle’s popularity among female and evangelical voters.
Ahead of his formal nomination as the Liberal Party’s presidential candidate, Flávio publicly apologised to his stepmother, and Michelle accepted the apology.
Flávio is expected to face incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in the October presidential election. Lula, 80, is seeking a fourth non-consecutive term in office.
A Liberal Party event in BrasÃlia on Sunday was expected to serve as a symbolic reconciliation between Michelle and Flávio. However, the former First Lady was unable to attend after being hospitalised the previous day with a severe headache.
She was discharged as the event began, according to the medical facility where she received treatment.
In her absence, her brother, Diego Torres, delivered her prepared speech, stating on her behalf:
“I accept this challenge.”
Speaking at the event, Flávio Bolsonaro reiterated his support for his stepmother and called for unity within the conservative movement.
“We are going to rescue democracy, together with Michelle Bolsonaro,” he said.