Syria, Bolivia, and more: 2026 elections feature candidates born in diverse countries

Brazil's Superior Electoral Court (TSE) is processing candidate registration requests for the 2026 elections, including those from naturalized Brazilians born in various countries. The applicants come from diverse backgrounds, with origins spanning Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Notably, candidates born in Syria, Bolivia, Peru, and Italy have submitted applications.

The electoral court will meticulously examine each request to ensure all documentation and legal requirements are met. This process is crucial for verifying the eligibility of candidates who, despite being born abroad, declare themselves as naturalized Brazilians. The list of birthplaces includes cities like Damascus, La Paz, Lima, Rome, Paris, and Washington.

In addition to naturalized Brazilians, two Portuguese citizens have also applied for registration with equal rights. This trend of international candidates is not new; in previous elections, the TSE received 35 similar requests. The court's final decision on these applications, whether to grant or deny them, will depend on the thoroughness of their review.