The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Archive: Brian Winter on the Imminent Election Crisis in Brazil
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Sep 13, 2025 Brian Winter, the Editor-in-chief of Americas Quarterly and a seasoned journalist in Latin American affairs, dives into the intense atmosphere surrounding Brazil's 2022 presidential election. He discusses the fierce rivalry between Jair Bolsonaro and Lula da Silva, shedding light on the socio-political challenges and public sentiment shaped by the pandemic. The conversation escalates as Winter unpacks fears of an election crisis, including Bolsonaro's threats regarding the electoral process, and the potential consequences for Brazil's democracy and stability.
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Two Dominant Political Protagonists
- Brazil's 2022 presidential race centers on Jair Bolsonaro and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva as polar protagonists.
- Bolsonaro represents right-wing disruption while Lula evokes the 2000s era of broad economic gains.
Policies Rely More On Past Records Than Promises
- Both candidates avoided detailed new economic plans, relying on past records or broad conservative promises.
- Business support for Bolsonaro is split due to chaotic governance despite his market-friendly posture.
Pandemic Legacy Shapes Voter Anger
- Brian Winter recounted Brazil's high COVID-19 death toll and Bolsonaro's denialist stance during the pandemic.
- He noted Brazilians remember Bolsonaro's callous comments and poor pandemic management.