Evangelical Bloc Elects Bolsonaro Ally, Strengthening Conservative Grip on Brazilian Politics

The Evangelical Parliamentary Front (FPE), one of the most powerful political forces in Brazil, elected Gilberto Nascimento (PSD-SP) as its leader on February 25.

Backed by former president Jair Bolsonaro and influential pastor Silas Malafaia, Nascimento defeated Otoni de Paula (MDB-RJ), who had sought closer ties with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Nascimento won decisively with 117 votes, while Otoni garnered 61. Greyce Elias (Avante-MG), a third candidate, withdrew to support Nascimento and assumed the vice-presidency.

Representing over one-third of the Chamber of Deputies with 219 members and 26 senators, the FPE wields immense power. It plays a key role in shaping Brazil’s legislative agenda.

Known as the “Bancada Evangélica,” this bloc has been instrumental in advancing conservative policies and blocking progressive reforms. Its influence extends beyond Congress, reflecting the rapid growth of evangelical Christianity, which now accounts for nearly one-third of Brazil’s population.

The Rising Political Influence of Brazil’s Evangelical Bloc

The FPE’s power stems from its ability to act as a cohesive voting bloc in a fragmented political system. Unlike political parties that struggle to command more than 20% of Congress, the FPE often unites around shared religious values.

This unity grants it de facto veto power over legislation requiring broad consensus, as seen in its successful opposition to anti-discrimination laws for LGBTQ+ individuals. Evangelicals have also shaped major political events.

The bloc played a crucial role in the impeachment of former president Dilma Rousseff and was pivotal in Bolsonaro’s 2018 election victory, where nearly 70% of evangelical voters supported him.

Leaders like Edir Macedo of the Universal Church and Malafaia have leveraged their media empires. They have also used their church networks to amplify their political agendas.

Nascimento’s election underscores the bloc’s continued alignment with Bolsonaro-style conservatism. This complicates Lula’s efforts to engage with evangelicals on key issues like tax reform and social policies.

Evangelicals remain deeply skeptical of Lula’s Workers’ Party, with 56% disapproving of his presidency.

As leader, Nascimento is expected to prioritize traditional family values and resist progressive reforms. His victory highlights Bolsonaro’s enduring influence. It also reinforces the FPE’s status as a dominant force capable of shaping Brazil’s political landscape for years to come.

For the full picture, see our Brazil Tax Reform: Complete Guide.