The article by Cláudio Hebdô in Folha critiques former President Jair Bolsonaro for using his presidential office as a tool for electoral propaganda and ideological promotion. It parallels his approach to that of former president Lula, suggesting a continuous trend among Brazilian leaders to engage in populist practices, especially exemplified through government programs like Bolsa Família.

Hebdô highlights that both Bolsonaro and Lula have exploited their positions to further their political agendas, suggesting that the use of public office for personal or electoral gain undermines the democratic integrity of the government. The author illustrates how policy initiatives can be co-opted for populist messaging, which resonates with voters but raises concerns regarding governance and the prioritization of political strategy over effective leadership.

Furthermore, the piece implies that this pattern is detrimental to Brazil’s political landscape, pointing out that such behavior could lead to disillusionment among citizens regarding the motivations of their leaders. By drawing attention to this issue, the article reflects on the responsibilities of elected officials and the need for a more accountable and transparent government that serves the public interest beyond mere electoral success.