O FASCISMO SORRINDO NO (E ABRAÇADO PELO) JORNAL | JANA VISCARDI

Summary

Jana Viscardi argues that fascist politics can gain ground through democratic processes and support from influential sectors, including traditional media. Drawing on Madeleine Albright’s Fascism: A Warning, she says warning signs should be examined rather than dismissed when political figures deny or retreat from them.

Media Coverage and Political Framing

Viscardi criticizes Brazilian newspapers’ coverage of the election campaign, saying it often focuses on reactions to provocation instead of the provocation itself, and reports politicians’ statements without analyzing their implications.

As an example, she points to a graphic shared in a WhatsApp group associated with the Liberal Party that, she says, closely resembled Mussolini-era propaganda. She argues that major outlets gave the resemblance too little attention and emphasized the party’s denial instead.

She also objects to coverage that treats Flávio Bolsonaro’s victory as though it were already settled, and to reporting that presents the candidates as equivalent despite, in her view, major differences in their relationship to democratic institutions. She criticizes a Veja cover for placing a documented request for money by Flávio Bolsonaro on the same footing as an unsubstantiated allegation involving Lula. She says this kind of framing blurs important distinctions and can fuel misinformation.

Democratic Institutions and Accountability

Viscardi distinguishes criticism of corruption or institutional failures from calls to undermine democratic institutions themselves. She argues that the press should scrutinize attacks on institutions, alleged foreign interference, and the political influence of the Bolsonaro family, rather than treating these issues as routine or giving them only scattered, low-profile coverage.

She also cites reporting on Flávio Bolsonaro’s alleged links to militias and powerful interests as material that deserves serious attention.

Suggested Actions

Viscardi encourages audiences to seek out alternative journalism and commentary, including The Intercept, ICL, and Agência Pública, as well as podcasts such as Foro de Teresina. She also urges people to share sources, continue discussing these issues beyond their usual circles, and join collective demonstrations.

Presenter/Contributor

Jana Viscardi