Lula’s Sinking Approval: A Wake-Up Call for Brazil’s Conservative Future
In the heart of South America’s largest democracy, a storm is brewing that could reshape the political landscape. A recent poll conducted by PoderData from January 24-26, 2026, reveals a damning verdict on President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s leadership. With a staggering 57% personal disapproval rating among 2,500 Brazilians surveyed, Lula’s grip on power appears more tenuous than ever. Only 34% approve of him personally, while 9% remain undecided—a clear sign that the tide is turning against the leftist icon.
This isn’t just a blip on the radar; it’s the culmination of a steady decline. Back in December 2025, Lula’s disapproval stood at 48%, but economic woes have accelerated the slide. Inflation is biting hard into family budgets, and stagnant growth has left millions wondering if the promises of prosperity under socialist policies were ever more than empty rhetoric. The government’s overall disapproval mirrors this sentiment at 53%, with just 41% offering approval. These numbers aren’t abstract statistics—they reflect the real pain of everyday Brazilians grappling with rising costs and unfulfilled pledges.
From a conservative perspective, this poll is a vindication. Lula’s administration has prioritized expansive social programs and environmental agendas that, while well-intentioned on paper, have strained the economy without delivering tangible results. Critics argue that his policies echo the failed experiments of the past, burdening taxpayers and stifling private enterprise. Remember, this is the same leader who has faced corruption allegations in the past, only to return to office amid controversy. The Brazilian people are wise to these patterns, and their growing discontent signals a rejection of progressive overreach.
As the 2026 elections loom, this disapproval rating should energize conservatives across the nation. It’s a reminder that Brazil thrives when it embraces free-market principles, fiscal responsibility, and traditional values. Figures like former President Jair Bolsonaro, who championed economic deregulation and law-and-order policies, offered a stark contrast to the current administration’s approach. Under Bolsonaro, Brazil saw record-low unemployment and a focus on national sovereignty—priorities that resonate with the silent majority now voicing their frustration.
The polarized discourse surrounding these findings is telling. Many Brazilians are calling for accountability, with some even whispering about impeachment. This isn’t hyperbole; it’s the voice of a populace tired of being sidelined. Economic stagnation isn’t just a policy failure—it’s a betrayal of the hardworking families who built this country. Inflation erodes savings, and unchecked spending fuels debt that future generations will inherit.
Conservatives must seize this moment to advocate for reforms that prioritize job creation, border security, and a return to moral clarity in governance. Lula’s declining popularity isn’t merely a personal setback; it’s an opportunity for Brazil to course-correct toward a brighter, more prosperous future. The people have spoken through this poll, and their message is clear: Enough is enough. It’s time to restore Brazil’s strength through conservative leadership that puts Brazilians first.
