Claudio Lottenberg takes leave from Einstein Hospital Council after potential ministerial nomination

Claudio Lottenberg, the president of the Deliberative Council of the Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital, has begun a leave of absence from his governance duties. The hospital announced that the leave is effective until the end of the electoral period. This decision follows a statement by presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro (PL), who told Jornal Nacional that Lottenberg would be his Minister of Health if elected in October.

The hospital stated that the move complies with its Code of Ethics, which requires absolute political neutrality and prohibits the use of the entity's resources for political purposes. Lottenberg is an ophthalmologist who also serves as the president of the Brazilian Jewish Confederation (Conib) and the Health Coalition Institute (Icos). He previously served as the municipal health secretary of São Paulo under José Serra.

Lottenberg confirmed he had spoken with Flávio Bolsonaro and expressed his willingness to contribute to the country based on his experience. According to reports, Bolsonaro described Lottenberg as a prepared individual who could bring private sector best practices to the public health system. One report noted that Lottenberg had previously mentioned to friends that he had opposed the health policies of Bolsonaro's father, but was told he should do what is best for Brazilian health.

Reporting on the event varied by political lean. A center source highlighted a manifesto signed by over one thousand Jewish individuals supporting the reelection of Lula to clarify that Lottenberg does not represent the Jewish community in his support for Bolsonarismo. A center right source focused on the specific details of the candidate's praise for Lottenberg's technical preparation and the private conversations regarding past political disagreements.