Garotinho to the Bench, for Now

In Brazil the centrist Democratic Movement Party, or PMDB, voted against presenting a presidential candidate in October.

The decision was a defeat for Anthony Garothino, a former Rio de Janeiro governor with presidential aspirations. However, Garothino’s faction promised to try again next month during a party convention.

Garothino has consistently run as third in the polls. He is currently on a hunger strike to protest for what he calls political persecution by the media.

Observers consider President Lula chances to win in a first round would increase if Garothino doesn’t run.