Lula's nominee rejected by Senate in political defeat

In Brazil on 30 April 2026, the Senate rejected Lula's nominee Messias for the STF, described by O Globo as a historic defeat. Michelle Bolsonaro celebrated the rejection, saying 'God's justice was done'. Messias posted a Bible verse saying he has no 'fear of ten thousand enemies'.

Folha de S.Paulo reports that Alcolumbre aims for re-election, and that the Lula government is mapping betrayals in the vote and expects dismissals. It also reports that Moraes had dinner with Alcolumbre the night before the vote. Lula gave a seven-minute TV address for Labour Day, and Folha reports he ignored the defeat in it. Allies say he is not expected to respond by dismissing ministers nominated by Alcolumbre.