Newly Elected Mayors Face Significant Challenges in 2025
On January 1, 2025, newly elected mayors across Brazil are stepping into their roles amid a landscape filled with pressing challenges. Analysts have identified several key issues that these leaders will need to navigate during their tenures, which will include electoral dynamics, economic hurdles, and public health concerns.
In São Paulo, Mayor Ricardo Nunes (MDB) is considered a validated leader following his successful re-election. His primary objective this year will be to solidify his political position ahead of the 2026 national elections. Nunes, who has transformed his image from a lesser-known figure to a prominent political player, will be pivotal in shaping a coalition that could influence the direction of the upcoming presidential race.
In the state of Rio de Janeiro, Mayor Eduardo Paes (PSD) enters 2025 at a critical juncture. With potential gubernatorial aspirations looming in 2026, Paes must consolidate his political capital within the city to ensure a smooth transition should he decide to run for higher office.
Meanwhile, Belo Horizonte's Mayor Fuad Noman (PSD) faces a series of significant tasks, particularly in rebuilding his relationship with the city council, which has been fraught with tension since he took office. The mayor will also need to address pressing public concerns regarding transportation, healthcare, and security.
Porto Alegre's Sebastião Melo (MDB) begins his term with the urgent need to tackle the risk of flooding, a recurring issue in the region. As the rainy season approaches, Melo's administration is under pressure to complete essential infrastructure projects aimed at mitigating flood risks, a task that may directly impact his public approval.
In Belém, Mayor Igor Normando (MDB) is tasked with leveraging the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) to secure federal investments, while also ensuring that the city is adequately prepared to host international delegations.
Goiânia's new Mayor, Sandro Mabel (União), assumes office amidst considerable financial constraints. His immediate focus will be on addressing the dire state of the healthcare system and managing a city burdened by substantial debts, particularly in health services and urban sanitation.
In Curitiba, Mayor Eduardo Pimentel (PSD) is charged with maintaining the city's status as a model for quality of life and urban innovation while ensuring financial stability.
Fortaleza's Evandro Leitão (PT) is set on aligning with state and federal governments to confront immediate urban challenges, particularly in housing and public sanitation, while also aiming to preserve the city's leading position in the Northeast region.
In Manaus, David Almeida (Avante) is preparing for a politically charged term, balancing the demands of rival political factions while focusing on critical areas such as health, security, and education, all while eyeing a potential gubernatorial bid.
Lastly, João Campos (PSB) in Recife is expected to have a brief tenure of approximately 15 months, during which he will need to position himself favorably for the upcoming gubernatorial race in Pernambuco.
As these mayors take office, they will be under scrutiny not only for their immediate actions but also for their long-term political strategies as the 2026 elections approach. The effectiveness of their governance will ultimately shape their political futures and the well-being of their constituents.
