Lula Pivots to Anti-‘System’ Message, Drawing Swift Pushback

Overview

• Lula used a radio and TV address on the eve of May 1 to blame a vague “system” of billionaires and political and economic elites for blocking his agenda.
• Opposition leaders, led by Flávio Bolsonaro, said he is posing as a victim of a machine he and the Workers’ Party built over decades in power.
• Political scientists quoted in coverage said the move seeks to recast 2026 as a choice between inclusion and privilege and to win back workers and recipients of social programs.
• Lula himself told a Barcelona audience that the left has come to be seen as the system, which critics cite as proof that the new posture clashes with his record.
• An O Globo analysis said his setbacks have concrete causes, including a conservative, fragmented Congress, weak coalition management, and budget amendments that let lawmakers steer funds and curb the presidency’s leverage.