Goiás Governor Ronaldo Caiado has launched his presidential campaign as a centrist alternative to the polarized choices of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) and Flávio Bolsonaro (extreme right). Speaking at the headquarters of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) in São Paulo, Caiado said the polarization in Brazilian politics is a tool used by those who benefit from it and can be “disarmed” through his presidency. According to EFE.

Policy pledges and political positioning

Caiado pledged to issue an “extensive, general, and unrestricted” amnesty for those involved in the attempted coup of January 2023, including former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently under house arrest. He also criticized the Workers’ Party (PT) and Lula, stating that Lula’s party should not be a viable option for governance. According to EFE.

Despite his strong rhetoric, current polls show Caiado trailing with only about 5% support, compared to Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro, who are projected to face each other in a potential runoff. According to Nachrichtenpool Lateinamerika.

Economic and international ties

Caiado highlighted Goiás’ economic success, particularly in agribusiness, and noted that his government enjoys around 90% approval in the state. He also pointed to his work on artificial intelligence regulation and agreements with the U.S. government on rare earth elements. According to EFE.

In a related development, the U.S. company USA Rare Earth has secured a $2.8 billion stake in the Brazilian mining company Serra Verde, which produces rare earth metals used in high-tech and defense applications. The U.S. has been increasing its access to these materials to reduce reliance on China, which controls about 70% of global rare earth production. According to Perspektive Online.

The U.S. Development Finance Corporation had already provided Serra Verde with a $565 million loan in February to boost its mining capacity from 5,000 to 6,500 metric tons annually. According to Perspektive Online.

2026 election setting

Brazil’s 2026 presidential election is shaping up as a close contest between Lula, who is running for a fourth term, and an as-yet-uncertain right-wing candidate. In recent polls, Lula led with 39.5% support, while Flávio Bolsonaro and a hypothetical Michelle Bolsonaro were at 32% and 32.7%, respectively. According to Nachrichtenpool Lateinamerika.

Caiado, running under the PSD, is considered a longshot but remains focused on his appeal in Goiás, where he has built a strong record. According to EFE.

Meanwhile, Goiás is also preparing for a major MotoGP event on March 17, 2026, with free public access and appearances by international and local riders. Caiado is expected to attend the event alongside MotoGP officials. According to motogp.com.