Flavio Bolsonaro Launches Brazil Election Bid With Backing From Milei, Netanyahu Messages

Brazilian Senator Flavio Bolsonaro officially launched his campaign for Brazil's October presidential election on Saturday, positioning himself as the conservative challenger to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva while pledging tax cuts, stronger public security measures, and a continuation of his father's political legacy.

Addressing supporters at a nearly full arena in Sao Paulo, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro delivered an emotional speech, declaring, "Here is Bolsonaro's blood," as attendees waved Brazil's green and yellow flags.

The campaign launch featured high-profile endorsements, including Argentine President Javier Milei, who attended the event in person after meeting Sao Paulo Governor Tarcisio de Freitas. Milei criticized Lula's administration and said Flavio Bolsonaro could "save" Brazil from socialism. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also delivered a recorded video message, while an AI-generated message from Jair Bolsonaro—currently under house arrest over his role in an alleged attempt to overturn the 2022 election—was played during the event.

Former first lady Michelle Bolsonaro also endorsed Flavio through a video message directed at women voters, signaling a renewed alliance after the pair recently reconciled following a public dispute.

Flavio Bolsonaro secured his father's endorsement in December, but his campaign has faced setbacks. In May, leaked messages connected him to jailed banker Daniel Vorcaro, who later acknowledged financing a film about Jair Bolsonaro's political career. His campaign has also been affected by tensions with Michelle Bolsonaro and criticism over his close relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, whose tariffs on Brazilian exports have drawn scrutiny.

Polling suggests Lula remains the frontrunner. A Datafolha survey released Friday showed Lula leading Flavio Bolsonaro by 48% to 43% in a simulated runoff, an improvement from a 47% to 43% margin recorded in June.

Flavio Bolsonaro has also struggled to secure endorsements from Brazil's center-right parties, many of which have chosen to remain neutral.

Despite those challenges, supporters expressed confidence in his candidacy, arguing he represents political change and praising his alignment with conservative values. Some attendees also highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with the United States under President Donald Trump.