Happy Friday! Back from the September 7 holiday, we discuss how President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s first Independence Day celebrations went, his moves to lure the Big Center, and a look at the NFL in Brazil.
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Lula welcomes the Big Center
On the eve of Independence Day, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s government announced its first cabinet reshuffle, aimed at turning the congressional group known as the “Big Center” into a reliable ally. The Big Center is a loose federation of center-right parties that have espoused a pro-business agenda as of late, but are ideologically fluid and ready to support any government if given the right incentives.
The swaps. Congressman André Fufuca, who belongs to the Progressives (PP) party, will take over the Sports Ministry in place of Ana Moser, a former volleyball star with no political ties. Silvio Costa Filho of the Republicans party will be the next ports and airports minister.
- Mr. Costa Filho replaces Márcio França, who will be moved to a brand new cabinet department...