2026 Presidential Debate: Flávio Bolsonaro and Key Names Missing
Understand what is happening in the debate scheduled for September 14 and the implications of some candidates' absence
The 2026 presidential debate, scheduled for September 14, has gained prominence because, despite the presence of six candidates, names such as Lula (PT), Romeu Zema (Novo) and others did not attend, sparking discussions about the event's relevance to democracy.
Date, time and broadcast of the debate
The meeting will be held on Monday, September 14, starting at 10 PM, organized by the "A Hora da Decisão" consortium, formed by VEJA and ten other media outlets. The broadcast will be simultaneous on free-to-air television, pay-TV, radio, news portals and streaming platforms, expanding public access.
Who is confirmed for the debate
The confirmed candidates are Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Flávio Bolsonaro, Ronaldo Caiado, Romeu Zema, Renan Santos and Augusto Cury. The list was agreed upon among the main parties and includes representatives from different political affiliations.
Absences that raise questions
Political science experts point out that the non-participation of Lula, Zema and other candidates can be understood as an electoral strategy, since being in the spotlight can make a candidate a target for opponents. However, they emphasize that the absence of strong names can empty the debate and reduce its democratic value, since exposure to opposing views and accountability are fundamental for the electorate.
Impact of absence on the democratic process
For political scientists Karla Gobo and Leandro Consentino, the presence of candidates in debates creates a public space where proposals, contradictions and positions are confronted. When leading candidates avoid the event, there is a risk that the debate will lose relevance and become less effective in shaping voters' opinions.
Prospects for upcoming debates
In addition to the September 14 meeting, the "A Hora da Decisão" consortium has scheduled two other presidential debates in the final weeks before the election: one on Record on September 27 and another on Globo on October 1. These moments are expected to bring the candidates together again, potentially changing the scenario created by the first absence.
With information from VEJA, Terra, O POVO+.
Source: VEJA, Terra, O POVO+