Brazil's Economy Improves Under President Lula Amid Political Divide
Despite economic growth, Lula struggles to boost support as Brazil remains split between his and Bolsonaro's supporters.
- Brazil's economy has improved during President Lula's first year back in office, with the economy set to grow 3% this year, inflation controlled at about 4.7%, and the unemployment rate falling to 7.5% in November.
- Despite economic improvements, President Lula has struggled to boost his support among citizens and lawmakers, with polls showing unchanged support for the president at between 38% and 40% since January 2023.
- Brazil remains politically divided, with the country almost evenly split between supporters of Lula and his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro.
- Congress has voted several times to override Lula's vetoes, particularly on environmental legislation, signaling potential challenges for the president's future productivity.
- Bolsonaro, barred from running for office again until 2030, still maintains a resilient political base, with thousands of protesters calling for Lula's impeachment on corruption allegations.