May Day Diversion in Brazil

The provided article discusses the political crisis in Brazil, focusing on the growing influence of the extreme right and the Brazilian bourgeoisie's preparations for authoritarian measures. It highlights the increased political polarization and the erosion of democratic norms under the Lula government. The article points to the rehabilitation of figures associated with the military dictatorship and the potential for military intervention in politics, similar to the events leading up to the 1964 coup. The text criticizes Lula's Workers' Party (PT) for failing to address the underlying social and economic inequalities and for pursuing policies that appease the ruling class. It argues that the PT's strategy of class collaboration has weakened the working class and created a vacuum for the right-wing to exploit. The article emphasizes the rise of figures like Tarcisio de Freitas, the governor of São Paulo, who represent a new generation of far-right politicians cultivated by Bolsonaro's base. Furthermore, it explores the deep divisions within the ruling class regarding the best path forward for suppressing social unrest and maintaining power. Some factions advocate for a more direct military intervention, while others prefer a gradual erosion of democratic institutions under civilian control. The article claims that the discrediting of the Brazilian unions, due to their historical collaboration with corporations and the state, is a key factor in the maneuvers of the bourgeoisie. find the original article here: https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/05/09/bglg-m09.html