Appeal Denied by the TRE
The judges of the Regional Electoral Court of Rio de Janeiro denied, on Tuesday (29), the request for review made by Anthony Garotinho's defense. The politician wanted the Court to review alleged omissions and contradictions in the October 16 decision that barred his candidacy for state governor.
The main reason pointed out by the magistrates was the suspension of the former governor's political rights until 2033, resulting from a conviction for administrative impropriety. Garotinho claims he has already completed the eight years of ineligibility starting August 1.
Appeal to the TSE
The defense announced it will take the case to the Superior Electoral Court (TSE). Until the appeal is judged, the candidacy remains under judicial review, according to electoral legislation.
In an official statement, the candidate's team said he remains in the race and will maintain his campaign schedule until the TSE issues a ruling.
Effect of the Votes
Garotinho's name and photo will appear on the ballot, but the votes will only be validated or annulled after the TSE's definitive pronouncement. The TRE clarified that if the rejection is upheld, the votes will be considered null.
If there is no favorable decision by election Sunday, the votes will not count. If Garotinho is the most voted, the proclamation of the result will depend on TSE authorization.
Electoral Rules
- If another candidate reaches more than 50% of valid votes in the first round, they will be elected immediately.
- In case of a tie for the lead, a second round is held.
- A possible late approval of the candidacy could require a new election.
These rules are from a TSE resolution of 2021, updated in 2024. This year, TRE-RJ analyzed 2,055 registration requests; 65 were rejected for lack of eligibility conditions.