Brazilian state governors in a race for vaccines (and popularity)

Several state governors announced they are bringing their local vaccination timetables forward, in a mad dash to immunize their populations ahead of the 2022 elections

President Bolsonaro's unwillingness to secure coronavirus vaccines stirred up his opposition. Photo: BW Press/Shutterstock — President Bolsonaro’s unwillingness to secure coronavirus vaccines stirred up his opposition. Photo: BW Press/Shutterstock

Jun 14, 2021 15:04 6 min read

“Prepare your arms,” tweeted São Paulo Governor João Doria on Twitter, upon announcing that his administration would bring forward the state’s vaccination timetable. “By September 15, the entire population over 18 will already have gotten a first [coronavirus] vaccine dose,” he promised. “Planning, work, and a sense of urgency. Viva, life!”

Unsurprisingly, given quarrels between the Jair Bolsonaro administration and Mr. Doria over vaccines, this weekend’s announcement caused a public spat with the federal government. Health Minister Marcelo Queiroga replied to the governor’s tweet, saying he was only able to vaccinate people in São Paulo because he had vaccines...

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Brazilian state governors in a race for vaccines (and popularity)

Several state governors announced they are bringing their local vaccination timetables forward, in a mad dash to immunize their populations ahead of the 2022 elections

Access all of The Brazilian Report

Start your 7-day free trial.

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