Lula's April 2026 Senate rejection of Attorney General Jorge Messias for the STF vacancy left by Luís Roberto Barroso marked the first such defeat in over a century, highlighting strained legislative relations and opposition resistance to filling the seat before the October presidential vote. Lula has signaled intent to submit a new name, with reports pointing to consideration of a female or diverse candidate to raise political costs for further rejection. No new nomination has been announced since, amid Senate arithmetic that requires 41 votes and ongoing talks with congressional leaders. The vacancy persists without a constitutional deadline, while the election timeline and potential post-October Senate dynamics shape the window for any announcement. Trader sentiment reflects these procedural and political hurdles alongside Lula's retained prerogative to propose nominees.