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Brazilian President Lula Gains Momentum Amid Trump’s Tariff Threats

The unexpected fallout from U.S. trade policies is reshaping Brazil's political landscape as President Lula sees a rise in popularity.

By Ana IonovaSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Brazilian President Lula Gains Momentum Amid Trump’s Tariff Threats
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

In light of recent threats from former President Trump, Lula da Silva's approval ratings have taken a significant upturn, suggesting a potential boost for his re-election campaign.

In a surprising twist to Brazil's political narrative, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is witnessing a revival in his approval ratings while preparing for the upcoming presidential race. Lula's resurgence follows recent threats from former President Trump regarding steep tariffs on Brazilian exports, allegedly aimed at protecting Bolsonaro, Lula’s predecessor, from looming legal challenges. This development has sparked a re-evaluation of the political dynamics in Brazil, where Lula, once facing an uphill battle due to low popularity, is now positioning himself as a formidable opponent. By framing Trump's tariff threats as an act of bullying, Lula has been able to rally both local and international support. His resolute stance has been well-received, prompting an increase in approval ratings that hover between 43% to 50%—gains not seen in months.Political analysts, including Camila Rocha from the Brazilian Center for Analysis and Planning, suggest that Lula's fortune is reflective of the "anti-Trump bump," a phenomenon impacting global leaders who stand against U.S. policies. This shift signals potential changes in the political landscape leading up to the elections next year, particularly as Lula approaches his 80th birthday, presenting a narrative of resilience that resonates with Brazilian voters.The brewing conflict highlights greater themes at play within global politics, where the decisions and rhetoric of U.S. leaders like Trump can significantly influence elections and political fortunes as far away as Brazil. As the scenario continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Lula's campaign and the broader implications of international relations in domestic elections.

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