In recent months, former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been steadily increasing in popularity, surpassing current President Jair Bolsonaro in approval ratings. This comes as a surprise to many, given the controversies surrounding Lula’s previous terms in office, including corruption charges and imprisonment. Despite this, the Brazilian people seem to be rallying behind him once again, creating a fascinating political dynamic leading up to the 2022 elections. In this article, we will explore Lula’s rise in popularity and the factors behind it, as well as what this could mean for Brazil’s future.
Brazil’s former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has garnered higher approval ratings than his successor, Jair Bolsonaro, although these ratings are smaller compared to his first two terms. Lula da Silva is the new President of Brazil’s left-wing government, which has been in power for three months. About 41% of Brazilians have rated the government as great or good, while only 24% have rated it as bad or terrible. The Ipec survey, published by the newspaper O Globo, also found that 30% of Brazilians had a neutral view of the government.
The poll results are significant because Lula da Silva has only just entered office and the impact of his government’s policies has yet to fully materialize. Nevertheless, the poll provides an initial validation of Lula da Silva and his party’s agenda. The overwhelming majority of his supporters hail from South America’s largest country, where economic growth and social progress have been no strangers to successful left-wing policies. This trend has emerged as a powerful message in political discourse, especially in countries like the United States, where the Democratic Party has become significantly more progressive in recent years.
However, this new-found popularity should not be taken for granted, particularly as Brazil is facing monumental challenges. The country has struggled to control the devastating impact of COVID-19, and Lula da Silva has inherited a difficult economic situation, including high inflation and unemployment. The President also faces other political and social issues, including widespread corruption, political polarization, racial inequality, and growing environmental destruction.
Critics of Lula da Silva argue that his government’s policies are outdated and his victory in the next election would only lead Brazil back to the brink of economic collapse. Nevertheless, Lula da Silva’s supporters claim that he has rejuvenated the country’s economy before and can do it again.
To overcome these challenges, Lula da Silva has already taken significant steps, such as increasing social spending, investing in infrastructure, and creating new jobs. He has also committed to combating corruption and promoting social justice. Lula da Silva’s government is also actively promoting the use of green energy and addressing climate change, which has become a global priority.
Despite these challenges, Brazilian policymakers need to work together to address the country’s growing needs. If Brazil fails to address its problems, it may risk its progress and reform path of the previous decades. The country has to take concrete actions that secure its economic progress and social stability. As one of the largest and most diverse countries in the world, Brazil has immense potential to address the challenges it currently faces. However, it will require political will and strong leadership to steer the country in the right direction.
In conclusion, Lula da Silva’s approval ratings in Brazil are encouraging, particularly given the country’s challenges. It has provided an early endorsement of his government’s policies, but challenges still lie ahead. Ultimately, Brazil’s success will depend on the ability of its policymakers to address the country’s pressing issues and the leadership and cooperation required to do so.
