This week: Under pressure, Bolsonaro continues his verbal attacks on institutions. And what to expect from the soon-to-be new Health Minister.
Jair Bolsonaro on the offensive again
Ever since he took office, mainstream politicians in BrasÃlia have hoped far-right President Jair Bolsonaro would eventually pivot to a more moderate stance. But this seems more and more implausible as the months go on. Celebrating his 66th birthday on Sunday, Mr. Bolsonaro gathered throngs of supporters in front of the presidential palace and said “only God can remove [him] from [the presidency].” He also said the people “can count on the Armed Forces for democracy and freedom.”
Why it matters. As Brazil becomes a global pariah due to its disastrous pandemic response, the president is feeling the pressure build around him. And he is showing he will not go down without a fight.
Voters. Pollster Datafolha shows that the Bolsonaro administration has never faced more disgruntlement from voters: 54 percent think the president is doing a bad or terrible job, while 44 percent disapprove of the government as a whole.
Censorship. As criticism of his administration grows and his popularity sinks, President Jair Bolsonaro has engaged in the legal bullying of...