Overview
- In a December 30 editorial, the magazine says the 80-year-old president should forgo a new run, citing age-related risks, his December 2024 neurological surgery, and the prospect of leaving office at 85.
- The piece characterizes Lula’s economic agenda as mediocre, centered on transfers and revenue measures less friendly to business despite a simplified tax reform and recent growth.
- It argues Lula remains the favorite largely because he has not fostered a viable center-left successor, noting Finance Minister Fernando Haddad’s limited electoral appeal.
- Assessing the right, the editorial dismisses Senator Flávio Bolsonaro as uncompetitive and elevates São Paulo Governor Tarcísio de Freitas as a younger, more institutionally steady option.
- Cited Datafolha polling shows 57% opposed to a Lula re‑run in June and December approval at 32% versus 37% disapproval, with Brazilian outlets amplifying the editorial.