We’re covering Jair Bolsonaro’s latest decree on “essential activities.” The investigation into the president’s alleged meddling with the Federal Police. And São Paulo’s disastrous attempts to avoid a full-scale lockdown.
Essential jobs: the next cultural war in Brazil
Gyms, beauty parlors, and barbershops are now considered “essential activities,” according to a decree issued by President Jair Bolsonaro on Monday evening. This means that such establishments would be allowed to open, even during quarantine measures in Brazilian states. The move blindsided Health Minister Nelson Teich, who heard about it from reporters, during a press conference. “That was announced today?” he said, in disbelief. “It didn’t go through us, it’s not our responsibility. This is a decision from the president.”
- Experts piled on the president for his decision. Gyms, beauty parlors, and barbershops are places that offer an enhanced risk of Covid-19 contamination: gym equipment is shared between all members, while hairdressers and barbers must break with social distancing to perform their services.
Context. Since the beginning of the pandemic, Mr. Bolsonaro has clashed with governors over the necessity of quarantines. He has lobbied for reopening businesses, while states are increasing restrictions — with a handful of metropolitan areas going under full...