How a Brazilian labor party became a far-right stronghold

The PTB has moved far from its origins defending labor rights, now becoming the epitome of the Brazilian far-right in a bid to regain relevance

Former Congressman Roberto Jefferson, the leader of the Brazilian Labor Party. Photo: Pedro Ladeira/Folhapress

May 03, 2022 16:10 4 min read (Updated: May 04, 2022 7:08)

With five months to go before the October elections, the Brazilian Labor Party (PTB) is focusing on its candidate for the Senate in Rio de Janeiro: Congressman Daniel Silveira — who was recently convicted to almost nine years in prison for threatening to physically assault members of the Supreme Court.

This candidacy may not materialize, as Mr. Silveira’s eligibility remains in question, but it underscores how the party has slid towards the far-right. Besides a possible bid for the Senate, the PTB is pushing for Mr. Silveira to be a permanent member of the Constitution and Justice Committee,...

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How a Brazilian labor party became a far-right stronghold

The PTB has moved far from its origins defending labor rights, now becoming the epitome of the Brazilian far-right in a bid to regain relevance

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