NEW YORK TIMES (US), O GLOBO (Brazil)
In a country famous for its carnival imbued spirit, it is only appropriate that Brazil’s municipal elections, often a dreary affair elsewhere in the world, are somewhat… colorful, to say the least.
Inspired by superheroes, cartoon characters and American presidents, take a look at the candidates screaming for attention in October’s local elections.
1. Geraldo Wolverine:
Normally, Geraldo Custodio is a 52-year-old driving instructor but when it’s election time, he’s Geraldo Wolverine: “It’s a marketing strategy, a political program, because if I said Geraldo Custodio no one would recognize me,” he told the New York Times.
2. Obama
Who knew Obamania was making its way around Brazil, with no fewer than 16 electoral candidates borrowing the American President’s name. This health administration employee is hoping to get a seat in Belo Horizonte.
2. Rambo de Natal
Rambo, complete with bazooka and dodgy bandana, is also running: “Against corruption, Rambo is your solution. God’s will be done, and not yours!” screams the Stallone wannabe candidate in the state of Rio Grande do Norte.
4. Moises Papai Noel
Yeah, that’s right, even the wholesome image of Santa Claus is used for political gain. This is in fact the second time Moises Papai Noel has ran for office, taking time out of his normal routine of running his own shop in São Paulo.
5. Serginho BBB
Ex-reality TV candidate Serginho from Big Brother Brasil 2010 is giving politics a try with the Socio-Democrat Party. Serginho wants to focus on education and protect LGBT rights in São Paulo.
Although, the competition is likely to be tough:
