Jair Bolsonaro, the wildcard in Brazil’s 2018 presidential election, is comfortable when interviewers try to press him on social issues. Known for his homophobic, racist, and sexist statements, Mr. Bolsonaro doesn’t miss an opportunity to double down on his antics. But the leader in all opinion polls (when former President Lula is not on the ballot) is visibly uncomfortable when asked about the economy. In a recent television interview, he said, once again, that he doesn’t understand the first thing about it.
Still, every time he does talk about the economy, Mr. Bolsonaro makes sure...