In early April 2024, a Genial/Quaest poll revealed a growing preference for opposition governors over President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in key Brazilian states.
Conducted from April 4th to 7th, the poll included over 5,400 voters from São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Paraná, and Goiás, highlighting a significant shift in political sentiment.
Governor Ronaldo Caiado of Goiás emerged with an impressive 86% approval rate, significantly surpassing President Lula’s 49%.
The contrast was stark, with Lula receiving a 50% disapproval rating, compared to just 12% for Caiado.
A similar trend was evident in Paraná, where Governor Ratinho Júnior enjoyed 79% approval, while Lula’s approval was only 44%, and his disapproval reached 54%.
In Minas Gerais, Governor Romeu Zema led with a 62% approval rating, ahead of Lula’s 52%, and Zema’s disapproval stood at 31% versus Lula’s 47%.
São Paulo showed Governor Tarcísio de Freitas with a 62% approval rating, slightly ahead of Lula’s 50%, with nearly half the electorate disapproving of Lula’s performance.
These findings suggest a shift towards local governance, with voters showing a clear preference for governors who seem to better align with their regional needs and concerns.
This sentiment may be pivotal in transforming the political scene as the 2026 presidential elections approach.
It could challenge President Lula’s dominance and signal major shifts in Brazil’s governance.
The results highlight a growing trend among voters to back leaders aligned with their immediate needs.
This preference reflects an emphasis on policies that cater to regional aspirations.