Former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) held a campaign rally in São José do Rio Preto, in the interior of São Paulo, this Friday (4). At the event, the president ignored rulings from the Supreme Federal Court (STF) and campaigned for PT candidate for governor of São Paulo, Fernando Haddad. Lula also made a joke suggesting former U.S. President Donald Trump make a Pix transfer to his campaign.
The former president also criticized the administration of Governor Rodrigo Garcia (PSDB), a candidate for re-election, and stated that Haddad is the best option for the state. Lula's participation in the rally occurred amid a delicate moment for Haddad's candidacy, which is trailing in polling intentions for the São Paulo governorship.
Former PSL presidential candidate and current São Paulo gubernatorial candidate Tarcísio de Freitas (Republicanos) was not present at the event. Tarcísio's absence reflects a "strategic distancing" of the Bolsonaro-aligned candidate from Lula, avoiding controversial topics that could alienate votes from his main supporter, President Jair Bolsonaro (PL).
The political coordination between Lula and Haddad aims to recover ground in the state of São Paulo, which is considered strategic for this year's elections. The PT is trying to demonstrate strength in the region, despite the difficulties faced by Haddad's candidacy in the polls. The event also marks an attempt to maintain the alliance between PT members and allied parties amid a fragmented political landscape.
