Brazil in Focus 04/2026

The latest issue of the Brasil em Foco series is now available, featuring three analyses of topics in Brazilian politics. Humberto Dantas’s article discusses the PSD’s attempt to build a “third way” in the 2026 elections. Despite the party’s regional strength and Gilberto Kassab’s leadership, the choice of Ronaldo Caiado—who is linked to the Bolsonaro movement—poses challenges in attracting “neither-nor” voters. Polls indicate that polarization is likely to persist. Joscimar Silva analyzes the changes in the ministries: in March and April 2026, Lula carried out a major cabinet reshuffle, with nearly half of the ministers leaving their posts to run for office. Executive secretaries took over, ensuring continuity of policies and pre-election initiatives. The strategy strengthens the government, secures programs, and expands the presence of former ministers in state and national races. Henrique Curi analyzes the 2026 electoral window, which closed on April 3, when more than 22% of congressmen switched parties. The PL emerged stronger, driven by Flávio Bolsonaro’s candidacy, while the PT remained stable. Governors and ministers also left their posts to run for office.