Gusttavo Lima, the popular Brazilian singer and businessman, has announced his decision to step back from a potential presidential run in 2026. The revelation came on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, through a video shared on social media, where he emphasized his commitment to supporting Brazil in ways that don't require him to hold political office.
Initially, Lima had declared his intention to run for president earlier this year, stating in an interview with Metrópoles on January 2 that he believed Brazil needed new alternatives. However, his campaign lasted just over two and a half months, ending with his latest announcement.
In the video, Lima stated, "I want to emphasize that I am not a candidate for any political office; I will not be running in 2026, nor am I affiliated with any party. I expressed interest in helping Brazil, and my goal is to contribute in other ways, without the need to run for or be elected to any public position." This statement showcases his desire to remain independent from political affiliations.
Lima revealed that the decision was influenced heavily by family and friends who opposed his candidacy. He noted, "Many people close to me positioned themselves against it, including my family, which weighed heavily." He felt that the political landscape for the upcoming 2026 elections is highly polarized and requires negotiations that could often conflict with the interests of the nation.
He expressed, "The elections of 2026 will still be very polarized. You have to sit down to negotiate things that sometimes are not in the interest of Brazil, but of parties and people. I don't have the stomach for that. My business is to work and help people. This is a divine mission, and I believe in it 100%.” With that, he redefined his focus on social causes and music.
He announced intentions to create the "Instituto Gusttavo Lima, o Instituto Embaixador," aimed at providing assistance to 2,000 elderly individuals throughout the year. Lima has already made significant plans to develop the institute, indicating, "I’m transforming my mission to help my people in the best way possible. I've made numerous social efforts to support thousands of Brazilians, and this institute aligns with my goals to further that work."
In the wake of his announcement, Valdemar Costa Neto, leader of the Liberal Party (PL), commented on Lima's challenges in transitioning to politics, noting that the world of show business can be hard to leave when one has achieved success. Costa Neto had previously suggested Lima could consider running for a Senate position.
Additionally, discussions had emerged regarding the possibility of Gusttavo Lima being a vice presidential candidate alongside Goiás Governor Ronaldo Caiado, who is set to announce his own candidacy. However, Lima made it clear that his priority remains in the artistic and entrepreneurial spheres rather than entering the political arena.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, Lima is set to focus on his international career, including a new partnership with Sony Mundo. "I'm heading to Miami this Saturday to spend the week recording new songs. This is what I know how to do," he confirmed.
Gusttavo Lima's political aspirations may have faded for this election cycle, but he did not shut the door on future possibilities. He stated, "Nothing prevents me from being a candidate in the next election or in two or three elections to come." Lima remains hopeful that whichever candidate the public chooses in 2026, they will prioritize the well-being of the Brazilian people.
As he wrapped up his announcement, Lima emphasized the importance of societal unity, expressing a desire for all political sides to work together for the welfare of the nation. He concluded the video stating, "I don't want to see my people suffer anymore. I hope the people choose wisely for 2026."
This latest development in Gusttavo Lima’s journey underscores not just the challenges faced by celebrities entering politics, but also reflects a maturing understanding of his role in society, one defined more by philanthropy and music than political office.
