Tarcísio de Freitas Appoints Ricardo Salles to Justice Secretariat
Former environment minister joins São Paulo state government following strategic political alignment.
1Official Cabinet Appointment
Governor Tarcísio de Freitas has officially appointed federal deputy Ricardo Salles to lead the Secretariat of Justice and Citizenship in São Paulo. This move marks a significant addition to the governor's second-term administration. Salles is scheduled to assume his new executive responsibilities starting in January, following his tenure in federal politics.
2Shared Ministerial History
Both Tarcísio de Freitas and Ricardo Salles served as ministers under the administration of former President Jair Bolsonaro. While Tarcísio managed the Ministry of Infrastructure, Salles led the Ministry of Environment. Their professional history and shared political background form the foundation of this new collaboration within the state government of São Paulo.
3Strategic Electoral Withdrawal
Salles previously sought a Senate seat but withdrew his candidacy during the final stages of the election. This decision was part of a strategic alignment with Governor Tarcísio to prevent splitting the right-wing vote. The withdrawal helped secure victories for other allied candidates, specifically Guilherme Derrite and André do Prado in São Paulo.
4Fulfilling Political Agreements
Behind the scenes, allies of both politicians suggested that Salles' withdrawal from the Senate race would eventually be rewarded with a government position. Although this arrangement was publicly denied at the time, the recent appointment confirms the speculation. The move solidifies the political coalition between the governor and his former ministerial colleague.
5Secretariat Scope and Duties
The Secretariat of Justice and Citizenship serves as the primary liaison between the executive branch and the state judiciary. It oversees critical institutions, including the Fundação Casa, which manages juvenile detention, and the Procon consumer protection agency. Additionally, the department coordinates public policies for diverse segments, including indigenous, black, and LGBT populations.
6Professional Background
Ricardo Salles, 51, is a lawyer who founded the Movimento Endireita Brasil in the early 2000s. He previously served as a private secretary and state secretary of Environment under Geraldo Alckmin. His career has been marked by significant controversy, particularly his tenure as federal environment minister during the COVID-19 pandemic period.
7Controversial Ministerial Legacy
Salles gained national notoriety during a 2020 ministerial meeting with Bolsonaro, where he suggested using the pandemic as an opportunity to deregulate environmental legislation. This specific phrase, known as passing the cattle, became a defining moment of his federal career. His appointment to a state-level justice role remains a subject of intense scrutiny.
8Local Political Tensions
Beyond state-level dynamics, Salles maintains a contentious relationship with São Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes. In 2024, Salles publicly characterized the municipal administration as having thieves within its ranks. This history of friction adds a layer of complexity to his new role, as he will now operate within the state's executive leadership structure.
Original article: Folha – Poder — Tarcísio de Freitas Appoints Ricardo Salles to Justice Secretariat