Brazil's major right-wing Progressives Party opts for neutrality, derailing Bolsonaro's running-mate plan

In a Friday statement, the Progressives Party, a leading right-wing bloc in Brazil, said it will stay neutral in the October presidential contest, a decision that hampers Senator Flavio Bolsonaro's campaign. Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, had sought to strengthen his ticket by naming Senator Tereza Cristina, who commands significant support among farmers and the agribusiness caucus, as his vice-presidential partner.

For Cristina to join the ticket, the Progressives would need to formally align with Bolsonaro's Liberal Party, but the deadline for party changes has already elapsed. Earlier that day, Bolsonaro told reporters in São Paulo that Cristina had agreed to the role, a claim now rendered unfeasible by the Progressives' neutrality. The party's stance removes a potential boost for Bolsonaro, who currently trails President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in the polls. This development highlights the challenges Bolsonaro faces in consolidating right-wing support ahead of the election.