A Federal Police operation targeting Senator Ciro Nogueira of the Progressive Party and the Senate's rejection of Jorge Messias's nomination to Brazil's Supreme Court signal escalating political conflict between President Lula and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, with broader stakes for the judiciary and separation of powers.

Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, a potential presidential candidate for the 2026 election, appeared uncomfortable answering press questions on Friday about Senator Ciro Nogueira's alleged involvement in the Master case. Bolsonaro attempted to distance himself from his ally during a pre-campaign event in Florianópolis, Santa Catarina.