A conflict of interest in the Communications Ministry?

In one of his many attempts to build some semblance of a coalition in Congress, Jair Bolsonaro expanded his cabinet to recreate the Communications Ministry, appointing Fábio Faria as the new department head. Tasked with overseeing telecoms, broadcasting, postal services, and digital inclusion around the country, Mr. Faria has hit the ground running by signing a pair of decrees favoring TV broadcasters and telecom companies eyeing up Brazil’s upcoming 5G auction.

Mr. Faria is a member of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), a center-right outfit with 36 representatives in the lower house of Congress. Previously independent from the government — and often opposed — the decision to bring Mr. Faria into the cabinet fold was a clear gesture from President Bolsonaro to bring PSD onside, hoping to gather just enough support to block potential impeachment proceedings.

Beyond being used as a bargaining chip in Mr. Bolsonaro’s scrambling for a congressional coalition, the choice of Mr. Faria is not just notable for...