Leite Gains Ground as Kassab Nears PSD Presidential Pick

Overview

• Gilberto Kassab, who set Tuesday, March 31 as his deadline, is wrapping up talks to name PSD’s first-ever presidential nominee.
• Pérsio Arida and Armínio Fraga, architects of the Real Plan and former central bank chiefs, publicly backed Eduardo Leite, adding weight from market-friendly voices to his centrist bid.
• Kassab signaled to allies that Leite now stands on equal footing with Ronaldo Caiado after earlier expectations tilted to Caiado once Ratinho Júnior exited the race.
• Caiado draws support from agribusiness and conservative PSD factions, while Leite argues the party should occupy a firm political center that blends fiscal restraint with social protection.
• The decision will shape a third-way push in an election many expect to polarize between Lula and a Bolsonaro-aligned candidate, with PSD’s governors and congressional strength making its pick a key anchor for alliances.