The Conservative Campaign: Aiming for Senate Control in Brazil’s Next Election

Despite Senate President Rodrigo Pacheco’s silence on the impeachment request for Justice Alexandre de Moraes, approval appears unlikely.

Brazilian conservatives seek the removal of Supreme Court Justice Moraes because they believe his judicial actions and oversight against them exceed the appropriate limits.

Set for September 9, 2024, Pacheco holds the key to initiating such a motion. Yet, many see him as a formidable barrier to removing a Supreme Court justice, a step favored by many citizens and lawmakers.

Nevertheless, right-wing leaders consider this impeachment campaign a strategic move. Even if it fails, it could bolster their primary objective of winning a Senate majority in the 2026 general elections.

Importantly, 54 of the 81 seats will be available. This offers a chance to alter the Senate’s ideological tilt and influence the election of its next president.

Such changes might facilitate more impeachment attempts against Supreme Court justices.

Parties like the Liberal Party (PL), Progressives (PP), and New Party (Novo) are already positioning strong Senate candidates.

Former President Jair Bolsonaro and PL leader Valdemar Costa Neto have expressed their strategic goals.

Bolsonaro’s strategy involves incorporating family members in the campaign to enhance the Senate’s conservative appeal.

Bolsonaro and his allies argue that winning the presidency would be pointless without a strong Senate majority.

This majority is key for changes in the Supreme Court, where nine of eleven justices aligned with President Lula are seen as hostile to right-leaning groups.

The Conservative Campaign: Aiming for Senate Control in Brazil’s Next Election

The PL, currently with 13 senators, hopes to increase its numbers to at least 50 by the next term. This would enable them to enact constitutional amendments or carry out impeachments.

Key figures in this effort include Michelle Bolsonaro, Deputy Eduardo Bolsonaro, and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro.

They are all preparing for the upcoming elections. Prominent conservatives and centrists are expected to join their ranks, potentially shifting the Senate’s makeup to favor the right-wing bloc.

This strategy extends beyond personal ambitions to a broader conservative agenda. It aims to influence judicial appointments and legislative directions.

As the 2026 elections approach, economic indicators, public perception, and strategic candidate placements will play pivotal roles in determining the success of this right-wing initiative.

The right’s concerted efforts mark a significant shift in Brazilian politics. They reflect deep concerns among government supporters and judiciary members about a potential conservative Senate majority.

Such a majority could transform national policies and judicial perspectives. This looming change underscores the critical role of the Senate in shaping Brazil’s future, affecting both domestic policy and democratic processes.

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