Ex-deputy criticizes 'schizophrenia' caused by polarization, joins presidential ticket

Former federal deputy Julio Delgado has been tapped as the vice-presidential running mate for Augusto Cury's presidential campaign in Brazil. The Avante party's strategy hinges on appealing to the significant portion of the electorate, estimated at 50%, residing in the country's approximately 5,400 smaller municipalities, who are reportedly weary of intense political polarization.

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There is 50% of the electorate that lives in 5,400 municipalities in the interior, which are not capitals or large cities. Many of them are tired of polarization and do not see themselves represented by any candidate.

Delgado, who has previously been affiliated with parties such as PSB, Cidadania, PV, and MDB, joined Avante alongside Cury in late March. He stated that he encouraged Cury to join Avante, advising him against parties with "owners" and suggesting Avante for its "serious party practices."

With five terms in the Chamber of Deputies, Delgado has been involved in notable political events, including leading the process that led to the impeachment of then-deputy José Dirceu in the 2005 "mensalão" scandal. He also had confrontations with Eduardo Cunha and Michel Temer, which drew criticism from various political factions. Delgado described himself as a "victim of this schizophrenia that polarization has caused" and called for a "shock of lucidity."

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I was always a victim of this schizophrenia that polarization has caused. We need a shock of lucidity.

Delgado mentioned meeting Cury earlier in the year through mutual friends and expressed surprise at the vice-presidential invitation. He stated that running for election was not initially in his plans but felt compelled not to "omit" himself at this juncture.

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Running for election was outside my plans, but I cannot omit myself at this moment.