The Intelligence from The Economist Playing his Trump card: Bolsonaro and the election
Sep 8, 2022
In this insightful discussion, guests Sarah Maslin, Sao Paulo bureau chief for The Economist, and Mark Johnson, education correspondent, delve into the brewing political tensions in Brazil as Jair Bolsonaro faces a potential loss in the upcoming elections. Maslin reveals growing fears of unrest and coup attempts fueled by Bolsonaro's anti-democratic rhetoric. Meanwhile, Johnson tackles the debate on free school meals, exploring their crucial role as a social safety net in various countries, amidst a changing educational landscape.
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Bolsonaro's Show of Force
- Jair Bolsonaro arrived at Brazil's Independence Day celebrations on a motorcycle, waving to a crowd of supporters.
- The crowd chanted against his rival, Lula da Silva, and some expressed willingness to "go to war" if Lula wins.
Bolsonaro's Election Strategy
- Bolsonaro trails Lula in election polls but claims victory and sows distrust in the voting system.
- This tactic mirrors Trump's strategy and resonates with his supporters, many of whom distrust the electoral process.
Coup Fears
- Bolsonaro's approach mirrors Trump's playbook, but Brazil's history of violence adds another layer of concern.
- The greatest fear is a coup or the invocation of emergency powers to postpone Lula's inauguration if Bolsonaro loses.