State deputy Janaina Paschoal (PSL) declared this Monday (20) that her colleagues in her party "are blind" and indicated that she wants to leave the party.
Elected with the highest number of votes received by a state deputy in Brazil's history, 2 million, Paschoal became known as a lawyer who initiated the impeachment process against ex-president Dilma Rousseff (PT). In recent days, the lawyer has criticized the protests that will take place on Sunday in support of the president.
"Friends, you are blind," wrote Paschoal in a WhatsApp group of PSL state deputies.
"I am leaving this group. I will see how I can leave the party. I think the protests helped us in the election, but now we need to think about our country. This is our responsibility," she said. After this, she exited the WhatsApp group.
She also sent an audio message to her colleagues questioning a video posted by Bolsonaro in which a pastor defends him as a politician "established by Jesus," to guide Brazil.
"I ask that you all watch and respond to me if a president of the Republic, in his right mind, would publish such a video. Please," she said in the recording.
If she leaves the PSL party, it would be difficult for her to remain a deputy because of the party loyalty rule. She did not say she was willing to give up the mandate, and the party does not plan to expel her. A future change could only occur during the so-called partisan window.
Folha was unable to contact Paschoal but confirmed the authenticity of the messages.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon