Flavio Bolsonaro is running for president in 2026, attempting to carry forward the Bolsonaro political movement even without his father on the ballot.

His platform centers on tougher crime penalties and curbing what supporters see as excessive judicial power, though Brazil’s independent judiciary could limit these aims.

Foreign policy presents a challenge as Flavio would have a different dynamic with the U.S. than the previous administration, making it unlikely that Jair Bolsonaro’s exact approach can be replicated.

The Banco Master scandal remains a shared political vulnerability for both Flavio and Lula da Silva, shaping public perception and campaign dynamics.

Internal tension exists between an ideologically pure wing favoring traditional Bolsonaro rhetoric and Flavio’s more moderate stance aimed at attracting outsiders.

Bolsonarism is portrayed as a movement built around Jair Bolsonaro that may endure institutionally, but its ability to reproduce without him hinges on Flavio establishing credible leadership and coalition cohesion.

Overall, Bolsonarism appears partly institutionalized but still highly personalized, with survival without Jair Bolsonaro depending on Flavio’s capacity to lead and unite supporters.

Supporters view Flavio as the successor to continue the movement, despite the absence of his father on the ballot.

His backing remains strong among evangelical voters and some middle-to-high-income groups, though it is not guaranteed to capture all of his father’s electorate due to differences in appeal and leadership style.