Victory of Far-Right Candidate in Brazilian Presidential Election

Jair Bolsonaro, the far-right candidate, has won the presidential election in Brazil. Despite being accused by his opponents of racism, opposition to freedom of speech, support for military rule, and opposition to equal rights for women and men, he surged past his rivals on a wave of discontent regarding the economic, political, and social situation. Bolsonaro competed against Fernando Haddad, the Workers' Party candidate and former mayor of São Paulo, in the second round of the presidential election on Sunday, November 6. Counting of nearly all ballots indicates he secured over 55% of the votes, while Mr. Haddad received less than 45%. Jair Bolsonaro, a former army officer, former member of the Brazilian House of Representatives from Rio de Janeiro, and a member of the 'Social Liberal' Party, which is considered a conservative and nationalist organization. In his victory speech on Sunday, he stated, 'We can no longer tolerate the flirtations of leftism, communism, populism, and the radical left... we are going to turn Brazil's future upside down.' He expressed in his speech in Rio de Janeiro, 'I have never been alone. I have always felt the presence of God and the power of the Brazilian people.' On the other hand, Fernando Haddad addressed his supporters in São Paulo, stating, 'Our duty is to create a strong opposition and prioritize national interests, the interests of all Brazilians, above all else.' Mr. Haddad added, 'Brazil has never needed a practice of civil rights as much as it does now. Do not be afraid, we are here. We are together.' In his victory speech, Mr. Bolsonaro stated he would act according to the 'Holy Bible' and the constitution of his country, and once again promised to combat widespread violence and criminal gangs. Bolsonaro has not hidden his sympathy for the military dictatorship from 1964-1985 and was a supporter of the torture of leftist opponents; Reuters reports that many citizens are concerned about the state of human rights, fundamental rights and freedoms, and freedom of speech during his presidency. International news agencies say his victory stems from widespread anger towards the ruling class from both major left and right factions that have failed to overcome corruption, poor economic conditions, and rising violence after years in power.