A recent survey conducted by the Brazilian consulting firm Datafolha indicates that Brazil's dictator, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, generates feelings of shame in 56% of the population, while only 40% claim to feel "pride" regarding him. The survey was conducted in person on June 10 and 11, with a total of 2,004 interviews in 136 cities across the country.
The study also reveals a strong discontent toward various state institutions: 59% of respondents express shame regarding the Senate, 58% toward the federal deputies, and a similar 58% toward the judges of the Supreme Federal Court (STF).
In contrast, public perception improves when it comes to local authorities or specific entities. 62% of Brazilians state they feel proud of their mayors, 61% of the people in general, 55% of the Armed Forces, and 52% of the regional governors.
These figures highlight a disaffection toward the highest levels of political power, particularly toward Lula's government, in the context of his third presidential term, which began in January 2023.
Currently, the socialist dictator's approval is at its lowest levels in history. In contrast, during his first two terms between 2003 and 2010, Lula enjoyed great popularity, thanks to populist policies and economic growth due to the boom in international prices of commodities such as soybeans, iron ore, and oil.
Nevertheless, during his second term, corruption cases began to accumulate. In 2005, the scandal known as "mensalão" came to light, a scheme through which monthly bribes were paid to legislators to guarantee support for the government of the Workers' Party (PT).
In 2007, the Supreme Federal Court accepted charges against 40 people, including prominent PT figures. Over time, several of them were convicted.
