The story
Luis Inacio Lula da Silva, better known as Lula, a left-wing candidate in Brazil, has been elected as president for the fourth time after a second round of voting. His victory came as a surprise to many after he lost the first round of the election, held on the 4th of October.
Many recent presidential elections in Latin America, such as in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina and Chile, have been won by right-wing candidates supported by US president Donald Trump. But Lula, himself, has campaigned on rejecting US influence on Brazilian politics.
As the election was announced, the Brazilian financial markets and currency valuve fell sharply and tehre is gorwing concern abour the level of Brazil’s budget deficit and whether Lula’s policies could make this worse.
News headlines
How to stun the world in 20 days: Lula halts pro-Trump wave with Brazil turnaround
NBC News
“LULA!” Progressives Hail Brazil’s Stunning Election Result
The Nation
Markets are dismayed by Lula’s surprise win – and for good reason
The Economist
Key words and phrases
turnaround
a dramatic change, often successful
- After losing their first three games, hiring a new coach led to a turnaround in the team’s season.
progressive
someone who supports liberal, left-wing ideas, seeking to change society
- Progressives want to see the government introduce more liberal policies.
dismayed
feeling sad, very disappointed or worried
- The staff were dismayed at the news that the company was to close.