Brazilian Legislators Reject Lula’s Administration While Public Opinion Shows Mixed Support

Recent polling data reveals that 49.1% of Brazilian federal deputies and 46.2% of senators rate President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s government as poor or terrible.

The “Ranking dos Políticos” survey interviewed 110 deputies and 26 senators across multiple parties during February 2025. Only 28.2% of deputies and 30.8% of senators consider the administration good or excellent.

The legislative disapproval contrasts sharply with public opinion polls tracking Lula’s third term performance. Datafolha reported public approval at 36% in October 2024, while Ipec measured 35% approval in September.

Quaest showed stronger support at 54% in July 2024. The differences highlight Brazil’s persistent political polarization since Lula’s narrow victory over Jair Bolsonaro in 2022.

Legislators expressed particular dissatisfaction with Lula’s congressional relations. A striking 64.5% of deputies and 53.8% of senators rated executive-legislative relations as poor or terrible. These numbers indicate significant challenges for Lula’s legislative agenda.

The administration faces this political headwind despite Brazil’s economic resilience. The economy grew 2.9% in 2023 and maintained growth throughout 2024, according to IMF assessments. Inflation has decreased, and monetary policy has gradually eased.

Brazil’s Political Landscape and Economic Outlook

Demographic patterns show Lula maintains stronger support among lower-income Brazilians. Quaest polling indicates 69% approval among those earning up to two minimum wages. Evangelical voters, higher-income groups, and southern region residents show greater disapproval.

The administration recently appointed Gleisi Hoffmann as Minister of Institutional Relations to improve congressional cooperation. Lula publicly acknowledged the need for better relations with legislative leaders Hugo Motta and Davi Alcolumbre.

Legislative support for key government proposals remains uncertain. Half of deputies support income tax exemption increases, a key Lula policy initiative. Finance Minister Fernando Haddad’s performance receives approval from just 30% of deputies.

Brazil’s economic outlook maintains cautious optimism despite these political challenges. Experts project continued growth but warn that legislative gridlock could hamper fiscal reforms necessary for long-term stability.