Senator Rodrigo Pacheco said he will not run for governor of Minas Gerais and intends to end his career in politics.

The decision removes a significant figure from the upcoming gubernatorial race in one of Brazil's most influential states. His departure signals a shift in the political landscape as parties begin organizing for the regional elections.

Pacheco said the announcement on May 29, 2026, during an event with businessmen in Minas Gerais [1]. He said that he feels his political duty has been fulfilled and that he will "close the cycle" in politics [1, 2].

This announcement comes as the region prepares for elections for the governorship of Minas Gerais, which are scheduled for October 2026 [2].

Beyond his own candidacy, Pacheco used the event to address the stability of Brazil's judicial system. He defended the Supreme Federal Court against what he described as "low and populist attacks" [1]. He said the court has been the target of aggressive and populist assaults [1].

While sources vary on his current party affiliation, Pacheco remains a central figure in the legislative discussions surrounding the judiciary [1, 2]. By stepping away from the electoral race, he avoids a direct campaign battle in the months leading up to the October vote [2].

“"I am going to close the cycle in politics."”

Pacheco's decision to exit politics avoids a high-profile campaign for the governorship of Minas Gerais, potentially opening the field for other candidates to consolidate power. His simultaneous defense of the Supreme Federal Court suggests a desire to leave a legacy of institutional stability, attempting to shield the judiciary from the populist rhetoric that has characterized recent Brazilian political discourse.