Flavio confirmed that he launched his campaign with his father’s blessing, ending uncertainty among conservatives over who would carry the movement’s banner. Other potential figures, including Michelle Bolsonaro and São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas, had been floated, but Jair Bolsonaro reportedly chose his eldest son.

Speaking Sunday, Flavio said his candidacy is irreversible unless his father is released. Jair Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year sentence and barred from office for 35 years on charges widely viewed by conservatives as political persecution. Lula da Silva – an 80-year-old radical leftist and the current frontrunner – has openly supported the crackdown on Bolsonaro supporters.

Flavio framed his campaign as a mission to restore order and defend millions who feel betrayed by the government. He condemned spiraling insecurity, rising taxes, corruption in state companies, and the expansion of narco-terror influence. “Our families have lost hope,” he wrote. “Retirees are robbed, cities controlled by criminals, and democracy is collapsing.”