Bolsonaro’s Home Becomes De Facto Party Hub Amidst Restrictions

Key Allies Seek Direct Access to Former President Following House Arrest

The residence of former President Jair Bolsonaro in Brasília’s upscale Botanical Garden neighborhood is rapidly transforming into a central command post for his political party. Following his imposition of house arrest, a flurry of requests for visitation permissions has flooded in from prominent figures within the right-wing political landscape.

Political Operations Shift to Residential Address

Party President Valdemar Costa Neto, along with key legislative leaders Luciano Zucco and Sostenes Cavalcante, plus Senate leader Carlos Portinho and his son Flávio Bolsonaro, are among those who have secured authorization to meet with the former president. Senator Ciro Nogueira, a former minister in Bolsonaro’s Civil House, also received permission for a visit.

PL party members believe that while the house arrest presents electoral challenges, it will be less disruptive than previous instances where Bolsonaro and Valdemar Costa Neto were prevented from direct communication by Minister Alexandre de Moraes. Such restrictions previously hampered party coordination, leading to setbacks in regional elections.

The strategy now involves holding crucial party meetings at Bolsonaro‘s home for the duration of the restrictions. His wife, Michelle Bolsonaro, who also resides there and leads PL Mulher, is facilitating these interactions. This mirrors tactics used during the 2018 presidential campaign, when Bolsonaro‘s Rio de Janeiro residence became a hub for political decision-making after an assassination attempt.

“We do want to have contact with Bolsonaro, hear him, hear his guidelines. Other senators and deputies should file similar requests, as they have no contact restrictions.”

—Carlos Portinho, Senator

Discouragement and Solidarity Mark First Day

Jair Bolsonaro‘s initial day under house arrest was characterized by expressions of political solidarity and limited visitors. Confined to his home, he spent the day accompanied by Michelle Bolsonaro and watching football. Senator Ciro Nogueira and Bolsonaro‘s legal team were among the few present.

Sources indicate Bolsonaro experienced discouragement, reportedly declining to watch videos of opposition press conferences. Senator Ciro Nogueira, who spent the afternoon at the residence, conveyed a message of hope.

“I won’t say he was not sad, but he is a person who still believes in our country, in God. I hope we can overcome this situation as soon as possible.”

—Ciro Nogueira, Senator

Michelle Bolsonaro, unaffected by her husband’s legal constraints, fielded calls from allies offering support during this new phase of legal challenges. Bolsonaro‘s routine is now adapted to his electronic ankle monitor and court-controlled communications and visits. His reunion with ally Ciro Nogueira reportedly had an emotional undertone.

Political polarization remains a significant factor in Brazil. According to a recent poll by Datafolha, 52% of Brazilians have a negative view of Jair Bolsonaro, while 42% hold a positive or excellent opinion (Datafolha, February 2024).