Cost of Living Crisis in Brazil Complicates Lula's Election Campaign
Rising food prices and living costs are negatively impacting Brazilian President Lula da Silva's fourth-term election race, creating voter dissatisfaction.
Rising living costs and prolonged food price increases in Brazil are straining household budgets, making it difficult for leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to achieve his goal of a fourth term.
Economic Indicators and Voter Perception
Brazilian voters state that they do not feel the improvement of economic indicators in their daily lives due to rising prices. The 80-year-old Lula highlights record-low unemployment and falling inequality, asking for patience.
Public Opinion Polls and Political Competition
According to a Quaest poll released in September, nearly half of Brazilians state that the economy is getting worse. This situation has led Lula to run a neck-and-neck race with Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the son of former President Jair Bolsonaro.
Reasons Behind Economic Hardships
In addition to accumulated food inflation, which has limited post-pandemic spending power, record household borrowing reaching 26.6% of income in June, high interest rates, and the online betting boom have also been influential.
New Measures Taken Before the Election
Two weeks before the first round of the elections, Lula took steps to increase disposable income, such as a 15% increase in the welfare program and a ban on online betting, but it is stated that these measures have not yet created a meaningful impact among voters.