Zema Pushes 'Business Mindset,' Targets Environmental Rules in Rio Address

Overview

• In a speech to the Rio de Janeiro Commercial Association, he proposed speeding major works by declaring them of national interest and easing licensing, adding that even a “beetle” should not stop a road project.
• He called for a fiscal spending shock that includes civil service reform, privatizations, lower taxes, and stricter screening of benefits tied to accepting job offers.
• On public safety, he urged labeling crime factions as terrorist groups, tougher penalties, and jailing anyone who cuts an ankle monitor, while faulting courts for releasing suspects.
• He addressed backlash over remarks on youth work by saying he wants to expand the regulated Jovem Aprendiz apprenticeship program so more teens can legally train and work part-time.
• He dismissed surveys that place him behind Lula and Flávio Bolsonaro and said he is pursuing alliances with PL and PSD, as outlets highlighted a rightward shift and reported falling approval in Minas Gerais.