Zema Eyes Ex-Chief Justice Joaquim Barbosa as Running Mate for 2026

Politics · Brazil

Minas Gerais governor Romeu Zema, preparing a presidential run on the Novo ticket, says he is considering former Supreme Court chief justice Joaquim Barbosa as his running mate, with a decisive meeting planned for early August.

A High-Profile Name in Play

Romeu Zema, the Novo party governor of Minas Gerais, is building a presidential campaign and hunting for a running mate. He has now floated Joaquim Barbosa, the former chief justice of Brazil’s Supreme Court, as a leading option.

Zema pointed to Barbosa’s reputation in the fight against corruption, a theme central to Novo’s brand. A meeting to test the partnership is set for Rio de Janeiro in early August.

Who Joaquim Barbosa Is

Barbosa is best known for presiding over the Supreme Court during the mensalão corruption trial, which made him a national figure. His anti-corruption image gives him cross-party appeal.

Earlier in 2026 he had himself been announced as a presidential pre-candidate by the DC party, only to withdraw citing a lack of conditions. Joining Zema’s ticket would return him to the national stage in a supporting role.

Novo’s Presidential Bid Takes Shape

The Novo party was due to hold its national convention on 27 July, where Zema’s presidential candidacy is expected to be formalized. Choosing a running mate is the next step in assembling a competitive ticket.

Novo positions itself on the free-market, small-government right. A recognizable, anti-corruption running mate could broaden its reach beyond that base.

Why It Matters

The pairing, if it happens, would add another defined option to a crowded field of presidential hopefuls. It also signals how candidates are courting figures with anti-corruption credibility.

For now it remains a possibility rather than a done deal, pending the August talks. The outcome will help clarify the shape of the 2026 field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Zema considering as his running mate?

Minas Gerais governor Romeu Zema said he is weighing former Supreme Court chief justice Joaquim Barbosa as his vice-presidential candidate for a Novo presidential ticket.

When will the decision be made?

Zema planned to meet Barbosa in Rio de Janeiro between 3 and 7 August 2026; Novo’s convention to confirm Zema’s candidacy was set for 27 July.

Had Barbosa run for president himself?

Yes. Barbosa was briefly announced as a presidential pre-candidate by the DC party in 2026 before withdrawing, citing a lack of conditions.

Sources

• Gazeta do Povo
• O Antagonista