The reorganization of the PL party's ticket for the Senate in Rio de Janeiro has positioned federal deputy and party leader in the Chamber of Deputies, Sóstenes Cavalcante, as a strong contender to run alongside Senator Flávio Bolsonaro in the 2026 elections. Behind the scenes, party leaders believe that the congressman currently has the most support within the party, although other alternatives are still under discussion, according to reports. The Globe.
The movement intensified after Cláudio Castro announced he would no longer be running for the Senate. According to sources within the party, the final decision on the candidate is likely to be made by Flávio Bolsonaro in the coming days.
Evangelical base and inner strength provide Sóstenes
Party members claim that Sóstenes advanced in internal discussions because he possesses characteristics considered strategic for the Bolsonaro movement in Rio de Janeiro. Among the points cited are his strong ties to evangelical leaders, his established presence in the interior of the state, and his direct alignment with the ideological wing linked to former president Jair Bolsonaro.
Behind the scenes, party leaders also believe that the congressman has a greater ability to unify different internal groups within the party at a time considered sensitive for building the main ticket.
When asked about the possibility of running for the Senate, Sóstenes stated that he was "a soldier of the party," avoiding officially confirming his candidacy.
Jordy tries to rise in the internal competition.
Another name that remains on the party's radar is that of federal deputy Carlos Jordy. The congressman had already been working internally to make a Senate candidacy viable and has once again gained prominence in discussions within the party's leadership.
Jordy retains support from the more ideological sectors of Bolsonaro's movement in the state and maintains close contact with allies of former president Jair Bolsonaro. Despite this, members of the PL party privately believe that the congressman still faces difficulties in expanding his connections with mayors and municipal leaders in Rio de Janeiro state.
Portinho is also mentioned behind the scenes.
Besides Sóstenes and Jordy, PL leaders also mention Senator Carlos Portinho as a possible alternative for the race. Allies highlight the parliamentarian's technical profile and good political communication skills within the party.
On the other hand, members of the party argue that Portinho has never run for a major office in Rio de Janeiro, as he assumed the mandate after the death of Senator Arolde de Oliveira in 2020. Currently, he also works in the coordination of Flávio Bolsonaro's presidential pre-campaign. Another name mentioned, but outside the PL party, is that of Felipe Cury (PP), former head of the Civil Police.
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