Wild Statement on Brazilian Presidential Election

Press Release

Today, U.S. Representative Susan Wild released the following statement on the Brazilian presidential election:

"On October 30, 2022, the Brazilian people came out in record numbers to reject the forces of authoritarianism, sexism, xenophobia, economic injustice, environmental destruction, and political violence by defeating incumbent president Jair Bolsonaro.

"For years, my office has been on the forefront of solidarity and human rights initiatives with Brazil--the world's fourth-largest democracy and the primary home of "the lungs of the earth": the Amazon. We have led and co-led initiatives on the need to counter deforestation and prioritize the concerns of the indigenous communities most affected by it; achieve justice and accountability in the aftermath of the assassination of activists and political leaders; combat violence and discrimination targeting Afro-Brazilians, women, indigenous communities, and LGBTQ+ citizens; and safeguard Brazilian democracy itself.

"This decision was the decision of the Brazilian people--made freely and fairly--and theirs alone. I am proud to have mobilized a coalition of members of Congress working to help ensure that this would be the case.

"Congratulations to President-Elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his hard-won victory. This is a historic moment for all those who believe in protecting democracy and the rule of law, civil rights, workers' rights, human rights and dignity, and our planet--in Brazil and all around the world."

Source