In early 2024, Brazil’s National Congress, having turned to a more conservative stance, saw a significant political shift.
Right-wing legislators gained ground, diminishing the influence of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s allies.
In debates on prisoner leave, drug policies, and abortion, right-aligned legislators led discussions across platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram, reflecting a noticeable shift.
FGV Communication in Rio analyzed the trend, revealing that the opposition captured most of the online engagement.
For instance, on the issue of “saidinhas” (temporary prisoner releases), they commanded 78.4% of the engagement, while Lula’s supporters had only 7.09%.
Similarly, in drug policy debates, the opposition secured 82.33% of engagement, and in abortion discussions, 63.63%.
These debates reflect a broader narrative of control and influence in Congress.
For example, the discussion on “saidinhas” became the most interacted topic on social networks early in the year, driven primarily by right-leaning profiles.
This focus formed a core part of the opposition’s agenda, portraying the government as overly lenient on crime.
This perception intensified when Lula vetoed a bill provision that restricted prisoner leaves, citing family integration as essential.
His Justice Minister, Ricardo Lewandowski, supported this stance, emphasizing family visits as a “Christian value.”
Opposition figures such as former President Jair Bolsonaro, Congresswoman Carla Zambelli, and Senator Sérgio Moro rallied against the veto.
They spearheaded campaigns like #DerrubaoVetoCongresso to mobilize their followers.
Both sides discussed drug policies and abortion, with opposition using religious and patriotic rhetoric despite political tactics.
This ongoing ideological battle in Congress is pivotal in shaping Brazil’s legislative direction and public policy outcomes.
It underscores the changing political landscape and highlights its profound implications for governance.