In the fluid landscape of Brazilian politics, ideological friction often yields to the cold logic of electoral math. Ronaldo Caiado, the Governor of Goiás and a presidential pre-candidate for the Social Democratic Party (PSD), recently signaled a definitive pivot during an appearance in Guaratinguetá. Caiado publicly characterized Gilberto Kassab, the PSD’s national president, as the "ideal" vice-presidential candidate for his 2026 ticket, calling him a master articulator whose presence would "close the deal with a golden key."
The endorsement marks a sharp departure from Caiado's previous rhetoric. Not long ago, the governor had disparaged Kassab with biting personal insults, reflecting a history of friction between the two power brokers. However, Caiado’s migration to the PSD—necessitated by his inability to secure a presidential nod from his former party, União Brasil—has forced a reconciliation. In the high-stakes environment of Brasília, yesterday’s adversary is frequently tomorrow’s indispensable partner.
Caiado’s path to the nomination was cleared largely by the withdrawal of Paraná Governor Ratinho Junior, who opted to protect his local political interests rather than risk a fractured race. Ratinho’s exit, influenced in part by the strategic maneuvers of Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, left the PSD with a vacuum that Caiado has moved quickly to fill. By courting Kassab, Caiado is not just seeking a running mate; he is attempting to consolidate the machinery of one of Brazil’s most influential centrist parties behind a singular vision for the Planalto.
With reporting from InfoMoney.
Source · InfoMoney
