Michel Temer on Democracy

Michel Temer, a career law professor and member of the 1988 National Constituent Assembly, consistently framed his political stance within the context of constitutional democracy. During his time as Vice President and President, he publicly affirmed Brazil's standing as the largest democracy in the Americas, linking its identity to the shared values of individual freedoms and liberties with allies like the United States. His academic background reinforced a focus on ensuring the Brazilian Constitution's provisions for social rights, such as food and dignity, were implemented alongside individual rights, advocating for a "democracy of food on the table."

His presidency, however, occurred during a period of significant institutional strain following the impeachment of his predecessor, which some characterized as leading to a "democratic vacuum" where unpopular neoliberal reforms were pursued with a fragile mandate. While his administration operated within the formal institutional context, the necessity of securing support, including from the military for internal security, led to actions, like expanding military involvement in domestic affairs, that some analysts argued compromised democratic health and civil-military balance. His legacy is thus tied to upholding formal democratic procedures during a period of deep political crisis and implementing significant economic changes under these conditions.