PT considers Patrus Ananias for Minas Gerais governor after Marília Campos declines

The Workers' Party (PT) is exploring federal deputy Patrus Ananias as a potential candidate for Governor of Minas Gerais, following the refusal of former Contagem mayor Marília Campos to contest the position. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has stressed the urgency of defining the party's gubernatorial slate in the state, which is considered vital for presidential election victories.

During a meeting with campaign aides, including Senator Camilo Santana and former minister Gilberto Carvalho, PT national chairman Edinho Silva indicated that a decision on the party's gubernatorial candidate was expected this week. President Lula echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for swift decisions regarding Minas Gerais.

The situation in Minas Gerais is complex. Initially, the PT's state chapter objected to supporting a candidate from another party, such as former Belo Horizonte mayor Alexandre Kalil (PDT), who is also seeking support from the left. Meanwhile, Marília Campos has expressed reservations about running for governor, reportedly considering not seeking any office if pressured. Allies suggest she has a better chance of being elected to the Senate, a seat the PT wants to secure to counter potential Bolsonarist gains in 2027.

Given these challenges, Patrus Ananias, a veteran PT politician and former mayor of Belo Horizonte, has emerged as an alternative. He previously served as a minister under Lula and Dilma Rousseff. The PT also plans to define its candidate in Goiás, where deputy Adriana Accorsi is also considering a run for governor despite launching her bid for re-election to the Chamber of Deputies. Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira has been appointed to lead the campaign's efforts in Minas Gerais.