Summary
Recent political developments highlight significant electoral shifts in Brazil and Serbia, where anti-authoritarian sentiments have led to unexpected victories against established leaders. In Brazil, former president Lula da Silva, who returned to power after a contentious election, defeated Jair Bolsonaro's son, signaling a rejection of far-right politics. Lula's win, attributed to a strong voter turnout, reflects a broader desire for change rather than overwhelming support for his policies.
Similarly, in Serbia, President Aleksandar Vučić, a long-time authoritarian figure, faced defeat from a coalition of student-led candidates who campaigned on anti-corruption and democratic reform. This grassroots movement, which gained momentum from widespread protests, underscores a growing resistance to authoritarianism in Eastern Europe.
These outcomes may offer lessons for the United States as it approaches midterm elections, suggesting that the rise of far-right politics can be challenged. Observers note that the recent electoral trends in both countries could inspire hope for those seeking to counter authoritarianism domestically, particularly as the U.S. prepares for its own pivotal elections.
Show Notes
There was good news over the weekend on the anti-authoritarian front in Brazil and Serbia, while our wannabe autocrat is ominously threatening to not accept midterm election results he doesn't like. Still, early voting numbers among Dems in key states—along with black voters in the South and Latinos in Texas—are encouraging signs. Plus: Bill and Tim share their longshots (in Louisiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin), Trump's helipad is now known as the maxi pad, the right's Cheesecake Factory defense has reached epically absurd levels, POTUS wants everyone to know how badly Bill Maher hurt his feelings, and what is Musk up to targeting The Bulwark? Bill Kristol joins Tim Miller. show notes:
Monday "Morning Shots," including Andrew on Trump's latest quid pro quo attempts
Tim’s ‘Take’ on Musk’s threat against The Bulwark
Jamie Davis’s campaign for Senate in Louisiana
The campaign site for Rick Crosson in WI-8
Rick Crosson responding to a communism question
Campaign site for Lindsay James in IA-2
Josh Turek’s trans-related ad
Join The Bulwark for our members-only livestream on Sunday
Closing Song: MJ Lenderman - “She’s Leaving You”
The Bulwark store
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