Brazil’s Electoral Court Bars Pablo Marçal From Debates, TV Time and Public Funds

Brazil's Superior Electoral Court (TSE) has taken a decisive step in the presidential race by barring Pablo Marçal from televised debates, free radio and television slots, and public campaign funds. The court's unanimous decision came just 16 hours after prosecutors requested its intervention. Marçal, a businessman and online coach, had previously served as the candidate for São Paulo's mayor in 2024, but his political career took a sharp turn when the São Paulo regional electoral court convicted him of abusing economic power and misusing media in 2024.

The conviction barred him from participating in elections for the following eight years, from 2024 to 2032. Despite his appeal, Marçal registered for the presidential race on 15 August, ten days after the conviction. However, the TSE has yet to decide whether his candidature is valid, leaving his registration in a state of limbo.

The court's decision was based on the risk posed by Marçal's eligibility. Rapporteur Estela Aranha argued that allowing him to campaign with public funds and media slots would be providing support to a candidate who likely fails the eligibility criteria. Marçal's candidacy is still on the registration list, but the court has not yet ruled on its validity.

The electoral fund, which covers the costs of campaigning, holds R$4.96 billion, or about US$956 million. Marçal's party, the PRTB, is a small party that missed the performance threshold for additional funds, receiving only a flat minimum of R$3.3 million, or roughly US$640,000. While Marçal can still hold rallies, distribute leaflets, and post on social media, the loss of free radio and television time is a significant setback.

The bigger issue remains unresolved, as prosecutors are seeking a complete rejection of his registration. The interim ban has drawn attention from election lawyers, as it limits Marçal's ability to campaign before a final ruling. The court is expected to decide all presidential registrations by 14 September, with the first round of voting occurring on 4 October.

Marçal's vice-presidential pick, Leonardo Alves de Araújo, known as Leonardo Avalanche, is also facing charges, including criminal association and gender-based political violence. However, these accusations are currently under seal, and Marçal denies all allegations, claiming that the internal party election was conducted lawfully. Despite the setback, Marçal remains committed to fighting the ineligibility ruling in court.