Brazil’s Progressives Party, one of the country’s largest conservative parties, announced it would stay neutral in the upcoming presidential election. This decision significantly affects Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the strongest conservative contender, who had attempted to tap one of the party’s members as his running mate.

Impact on Bolsonaro’s Campaign

Senator Bolsonaro, the eldest son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, sought to broaden his campaign’s support by adding a woman to the slate. However, the Progressives Party’s decision to remain neutral closes the door on Senator Tereza Cristina joining Bolsonaro’s ticket as running mate, despite his earlier announcement that she had accepted the role.

Cristina enjoys strong backing among rural voters and the powerful agribusiness caucus, which would have been a major boost for Bolsonaro’s campaign. The deadline for changing parties ahead of the election has passed, making it unlikely for Cristina to join Bolsonaro’s ticket.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.