Arruda barred from DF government race

The Regional Electoral Court of the Federal District (TRE-DF) has blocked the candidacy of José Roberto Arruda (PSD) for the office of governor in a unanimous decision. The measure is based on Supplementary Law No. 219/2025, which amended the Clean Slate Law and established an ineligibility period of 12 years in cases of multiple convictions.

TRE-DF Decision

The rapporteur, Appellate Judge Guilherme Pupe, recognized Arruda's ineligibility due to convictions for administrative misconduct. His vote was followed by Appellate Judges André Puppin, Leonor Aguena, Asiel Henrique, and João Egmont. The TRE-DF rejected the candidacy registration but maintained campaign activities, including advertising and the use of free electoral airtime, while the decision can be appealed.

Timeframe and calculation of ineligibility

The TRE-DF ruled that the calculation of the ineligibility period must start from the second collegiate conviction, in 2018. Thus, the period has not yet expired. The Electoral Public Prosecutor's Office pointed out that Arruda will remain ineligible until December 2030, with the possibility of running for office again in 2034.

Appeal to the TSE

Arruda stated that he will appeal to the Superior Electoral Court (TSE). He said he has confidence in the justice system and that the legislation approved by Congress and sanctioned by the President of the Republic leaves him eligible. The former governor also mentioned the vice-gubernatorial candidacy of Celina Leão's running mate, Gustavo Rocha (Republicanos), and declared that he would not accept defeat “by a technicality”.

Context of the Clean Slate Law

Supplementary Law No. 219/2025 altered the ineligibility regime, limiting the period to 12 years when there is more than one conviction. The Supreme Federal Court (STF) decision, with the trial scheduled to resume between September 11 and 18, could confirm or modify this rule. The rapporteur, Justice Cármen Lúcia, voted to restore the original text of the law, arguing that the changes represent a step backward for republican principles, administrative integrity, and public morality.

Impact on voting intentions

According to recent polls, Arruda leads or is close to leading voting intentions in the DF, technically tied with Celina Leão (PP) at 28% and 30%, respectively. The TRE-DF decision, therefore, could influence the campaign dynamics and voters' choices in the upcoming 2026 elections.

With information from Folha de S.Paulo, Metrópoles, and G1.