Flávio Bolsonaro Names Alfredo Gaspar as Vice Presidential Running Mate

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro of the Liberal Party (PL) has announced Congressman Alfredo Gaspar as his running mate for the 2026 presidential election. The selection of Gaspar, a first term federal deputy from Alagoas, came as a surprise to many observers as Bolsonaro had previously indicated he would choose a woman for the position to broaden his appeal among female voters. The final decision was reached less than 24 hours before the official announcement, following a period of failed attempts to secure alliances with other parties such as the PP and Republicanos.

Gaspar is a former prosecutor and head of the Public Ministry of Alagoas with a background in public security. He gained national prominence as the rapporteur of a joint parliamentary commission (CPMI) investigating the National Social Security Institute (INSS). During that probe, Gaspar requested the indictment of over 200 people, including Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, the son of President Lula. Flávio Bolsonaro highlighted Gaspar's experience in fighting organized crime and his northeastern roots as key reasons for the choice.

The announcement has been met with different interpretations. Center right sources frame the pick as a strategic move to penetrate the Northeast, a traditional stronghold for President Lula, and as a commitment to law and order. In contrast, center left sources suggest the choice underscores Bolsonaro's struggle to build broad alliances beyond his own party, noting that the move away from a female running mate may alienate some voters.

Concurrent with the announcement, reports emerged that Supreme Court Minister Gilmar Mendes is awaiting further police and prosecutorial input to decide whether to authorize an inquiry into Gaspar for the suspected rape of a vulnerable person. The accusation was brought forward by lawmakers Lindbergh Farias and Soraya Thronicke. Gaspar has denied the allegations, claiming they are based on a story involving a cousin. Flávio Bolsonaro's campaign has dismissed the accusations as frivolous and argued they were designed to distract from the INSS investigation into the president's son.

Additionally, the campaign faced questions regarding the absence of former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro from the announcement. Senator Damares Alves stated that Michelle was preparing food for former President Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently under house arrest.