Today, we predict what Jair Bolsonaro will say in his speech to the United Nations General Assembly. Plus, a visit from the U.S. Secretary of State. And Bolsonaro’s botched attempt to launch his own cash-transfer program.
Bolsonaro’s United Nations General Assembly playbook
The United Nations General Assembly opened yesterday for what will be a historic socially-distanced 75th session. General debates begin on September 22 and, as customary, Brazil will deliver the opening speech. Brasília correspondent Débora Álvares reports that the president has already zeroed in on his talking points — and his pre-recorded address should be ready by the weekend.
All hands on deck. Multiple advisers were tasked with drafting the speech, and the president has ordered them, according to a cabinet minister, to “dig up all the data that can put Brazil under a positive light before other countries.” Here’s what Mr. Bolsonaro will present to the world:
- Coronavirus. The Brazilian president has endured harsh criticism for his Covid-19 denialism, but Mr. Bolsonaro plans to ignore the 133,000-plus deaths and “focus on the positive numbers,” by pointing out that 3.6 million Brazilians have recovered from the coronavirus. He will also talk about the emergency aid introduced in April...