Overview
- Alfredo Gaspar, a 55-year-old PL congressman from Alagoas, was named Flavio Bolsonaro’s vice-presidential pick on Wednesday, formally completing the ticket for the October election.
- Gaspar previously served as Alagoas’ secretary of public security and led a congressional probe into the National Social Security Institute (INSS), a record the campaign highlights to press anti-corruption and safety themes.
- The pick was a surprise inside and outside the PL after Bolsonaro failed to secure high-profile allies and a planned effort to add a woman to the ticket did not win party backing.
- Campaign messaging now centers on investigations and security issues, with coverage noting links between Gaspar’s INSS probe and an ongoing inquiry into President Lula’s son over alleged improper pension-related payments.
- Major right-leaning parties have largely stayed neutral at the national level, a stance that limits Bolsonaro’s ability to expand his coalition and makes party endorsements and congressional contests key factors to watch next.