Chapter 6: In the Spotlight of the Debates

The month of August brought with it a new stage for Gustavo Andrade's presidential campaign. The debates, eagerly awaited by millions of Brazilians, were the perfect opportunity for him to present his proposals, confront his opponents and show the country who he really was. Among the most anticipated events were the debates on CNN Brasil and Jornal Nacional, where he would compete against important political figures such as Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Jair Bolsonaro, Ciro Gomes, Simone Tebet and other candidates.

On the night of the CNN Brasil debate, Gustavo was backstage, reviewing his notes. Renata, his campaign advisor, approached and put her hand on his shoulder.

"Are you ready?" she asked with an encouraging smile.

Gustavo looked at her, his gaze firm and determined.

"More than ever. Today, I will show them that Brazil deserves more than empty promises and corruption."

When he walked on stage, the stage was set. The other candidates were already in their positions, and the atmosphere was tense. The bright lights, the piercing gaze of the cameras, and the anticipation of the audience made the air seem thicker. As soon as Gustavo settled in, he exchanged quick glances with his opponents, all prepared for the verbal battle that was about to begin.

The CNN moderator began the debate, explaining the rules and announcing the first topic of the night: corruption in the government and its consequences for Brazil. Gustavo knew this was his chance.

"The first question is for candidate Gustavo Andrade," the moderator began. "How do you assess the current situation in Brazil regarding corruption, and what are your proposals for combating it?"

Gustavo adjusted the microphone and looked directly into the camera, his voice deep and firm.

"Brazil is on the brink of a moral and economic collapse," he began. "We have been governed by corrupt and incompetent politicians for too long. Corruption has drained resources that should be invested in health, education, and security. My proposal is clear: create a permanent task force against corruption, with full autonomy to investigate and prosecute anyone, regardless of position or party. In addition, I will propose a reform of the Judiciary to ensure that these cases are judged quickly and efficiently."

The other candidates remained silent, watching Gustavo. He knew that his next move would be crucial in setting the tone for the debate.

"Brazil is in the situation it is in," he continued, looking directly at Lula and Bolsonaro, "because of people like you two. Lula, you were convicted of corruption, and although you were released, that does not erase the fact that your government was one of the most corrupt in recent history. And Bolsonaro, your government was a disaster of incompetence and favoritism of shady schemes, such as the corruption allegations involving the purchase of vaccines."

The tension on the stage increased instantly. Lula, visibly uncomfortable, tried to intervene.

"Candidate, you are speaking based on false information. I was unjustly convicted, and what you are doing is trying to tarnish my reputation with accusations that have already been dismissed by the courts!

Gustavo remained calm, waiting for the right moment to respond.

— I am speaking based on facts, Lula. Your government was marked by scandals such as Mensalão and Petrolão, and the Brazilian people paid the price for that. You can try to avoid responsibility, but Brazilians have not forgotten what happened. If we are in an economic and social crisis, part of it is your fault.

The audience in the studio reacted with a murmur of surprise. It was clear that Gustavo was not there to mince words. When Bolsonaro tried to defend himself, Gustavo did not hesitate to confront him as well.

— And you, Bolsonaro, promised to end corruption, but what you did was surround yourself with people who were involved in schemes. Your government was marked by omission and lack of preparation, especially during the pandemic, when corruption in the purchase of vaccines almost cost lives. You are both responsible for the situation Brazil finds itself in. And that is why we are here today, trying to find a real solution.

Ciro Gomes, who until then had been observing in silence, took advantage of the moment to try to stand out.

— I agree with what was said about corruption, but we need to understand that Brazil needs a profound economic restructuring. Gustavo, your proposals against corruption are valid, but what are you going to do for the economy?

Gustavo, without losing his rhythm, responded firmly.

— The Brazilian economy needs a bold plan, and that is what I am proposing. The first measure will be the debureaucratization of processes for small and medium-sized companies, encouraging entrepreneurship. Second, we will focus on tax reform, simplifying taxes and reducing the tax burden that is suffocating the productive sector. In addition, I want to create programs to train the workforce, preparing Brazilians for the future, with a focus on technology and innovation.

The debate continued, but Gustavo had clearly stood out. He had taken control of the narrative, and while his opponents traded attacks or defenses, he remained focused on his proposals.

When the Jornal Nacional debate arrived, the scenario was similar. Gustavo was prepared, and once again he would face Lula, Bolsonaro, Ciro Gomes and Simone Tebet, in addition to other minor candidates. That night, he knew that millions of Brazilians would be watching, waiting to see who really had the ability to lead the country.

The debate began with questions about education and health, and Gustavo presented his proposals clearly. He spoke about creating a national plan to improve the infrastructure of public schools and modernize the education system, in addition to investing heavily in teacher training.

When it was time to debate public safety, he was incisive.

— "I served this country as a Federal Police officer and I know firsthand the challenges our security forces face. Brazil's problem is not a lack of laws, but a lack of enforcement. My government will reform public security, with investments in intelligence, technology and training. We cannot continue with this state of impunity."

Lula tried to intervene again, defending his social programs as a solution to crime. Bolsonaro insisted that arming the population was the answer. Gustavo calmly rebutted them.

— "Public security cannot be solved with weapons alone, nor only with social programs. We need a comprehensive approach: prevention, repression and, above all, ensuring that the State functions. The truth is that Brazil is the way it is because of leaders who talk a lot and do little. You two" — he pointed to Lula and Bolsonaro — "had your chance, and you failed."

The astonished looks on the other candidates' faces were evident. Gustavo Andrade had taken a strong stance, unafraid to confront the country's two biggest political rivals. As the night wore on, he knew he had made his point. His voters, and even those who were still undecided, could see a candidate willing to challenge the status quo and fight for a different Brazil.

At the end of the debate, Paola, who had been watching from home, sent a short but meaningful message:

"Pride defines. You are making history."

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