How Brazil's changing working class is reshaping the presidential race
The industrial city of Osasco, Brazil, is experiencing a shift in its working-class demographic from industrial to service-based roles, influencing local political allegiances. This transition is impacting the support base for President Lula da Silva as voters express frustration with the economy and corruption.
Why it matters
Understanding the shifting demographics of the working class is crucial for predicting outcomes in polarized presidential elections in emerging economies.
Image caption, A student at a rally for President Lula da Silva
In the sprawling former industrial city of Osasco, shuttered factories have given way to a shopping malls and delivery app tech companies in what is now dubbed São Paulo's "Silicon Valley."
The municipality voted for Brazil's left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in 2022 but switched to the right-wing Flávio Bolsonaro in the first round of Brazil's presidential election this month. Bolsonaro won that vote - and now the two men face a run-off on Sunday. Since 1989, every first-round winner has gone on to be elected president.
Like many of President Lula's traditional supporters, Gilberto Almazan, who leads a metalworkers' union here, is visibly worried.
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