Michelle vs. Flávio: Bolsonaro family feud escalates
Translated from Portuguese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Michelle Bolsonaro released a video accusing her stepson, Flávio Bolsonaro, of betrayal and disrespect.
- She criticized his alliances with individuals who have previously insulted her husband, Jair Bolsonaro.
- The video is seen as a move to distance herself from Flávio's potentially losing campaign and to secure Jair Bolsonaro's legacy.
Michelle Bolsonaro has released a video accusing her stepson, Flávio Bolsonaro, of betraying and humiliating her with his "brusqueness." She stated that Flávio is forming alliances with individuals who have previously labeled her husband, Jair Bolsonaro, a "thief" and a "Nazi."
Michelle also protested the exclusion of women from the Bolsonaro-aligned Senate slates this year. She specifically mentioned Priscila Costa, who was overlooked in Ceará after an alliance with Ciro Gomes, and Carol de Toni, who lost her Senate candidacy spot in Santa Catarina to Carlos Bolsonaro.
By repeatedly stating she only acted in agreement with her husband, Michelle strongly implied that when Flávio contradicted her, he was also contradicting Jair. This suggests the video was made with Jair Bolsonaro's implicit approval. The article speculates on how Flávio might respond, referencing comments from Paulo Figueiredo, an associate of Eduardo Bolsonaro, who allegedly made disparaging remarks about women voters and Michelle herself.
Michelle's move is interpreted as a strategic play for Jair Bolsonaro's legacy, particularly if Flávio's campaign falters. Her criticism targets Flávio's poor performance in polls, especially among women, where his support is weakest. Michelle's backing of female candidates is seen as crucial for reaching evangelical women, a key demographic. The article suggests Michelle is attempting to distance herself from a candidacy that risks not only defeat but also demoralization due to revelations in the "Master case," implying a mutual threat of "I know more than I can say" between Michelle and the Bolsonaro family.
You stabbed me in the back, humiliated me with your brusqueness, and you make alliances with those who have already called you and your father a thief and a Nazi.
Originally published by Folha de S.Paulo in Portuguese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.