History of Michel Temer

Michel Miguel Elias Temer Lulia, commonly known as Michel Temer, is an influential Brazilian politician who has played a pivotal role in the country's political landscape for decades. Born on September 23, 1940, in Tietê, São Paulo, Temer has had a long and varied career, encompassing roles in law, legislation, and governance at the highest level of Brazilian politics.

Temer's ascent in the political arena is rooted in his academic grounding in law. He attended the prestigious University of São Paulo, where he earned a degree in law and subsequently pursued a career in academia and public service. His academic background provided him with a strong foundation in constitutional law, which would later influence his political trajectory. Michel Temer began his professional career as a lawyer and quickly moved into higher level roles, serving as a professor teaching constitutional law—a subject that would remain relevant throughout his political life.

His formal entry into politics occurred when he joined the Brazilian Democratic Movement (PMDB), a centrist political party that played a significant role in Brazil's transition from military dictatorship to democracy in the 1980s. Temer's early political roles included serving as the State Prosecutor of São Paulo and later as the Secretary for Public Safety for São Paulo state, where he earned a reputation for his cautious and strategic approach to governance. These roles laid the groundwork for his rise within the political ranks and marked the beginning of a successful and enduring political career.

In 1986, Temer was elected as a federal deputy for São Paulo, marking the commencement of his long tenure in the Brazilian Congress. He served numerous terms, reflecting his deep-seated influence and popularity within his constituency. During his legislative career, he gained a reputation as a skilled negotiator and a master of parliamentary procedure. Temer was known for his ability to navigate the complicated and often tumultuous landscape of Brazilian politics, attributes that eventually positioned him to hold significant leadership roles within the chamber.

One of his notable achievements in the legislative branch was his multiple tenures as President of the Chamber of Deputies, Brazil’s lower house of Congress. He served in this capacity on three occasions: first from 1997 to 1999, then from 1999 to 2001, and finally from 2009 to 2010. In these roles, Temer was responsible for overseeing legislative processes, ensuring orderly conduct, and facilitating debates on crucial national matters. His leadership during these crucial periods of Brazilian politics underscored his political acumen and ability to wield influence within a fragmented congress.

In 2010, Temer's political career took a significant leap when he was selected as the vice-presidential running mate for Dilma Rousseff, the presidential candidate from the Workers’ Party (PT). The Rousseff-Temer ticket won the election, and Temer assumed office as Vice President of Brazil on January 1, 2011. This role was a testament to his political versatility and marked the beginning of a complex political partnership with Rousseff, characterized by both collaboration and, eventually, tension.

Temer’s vice presidency was a period of both political cooperation and underlying discord. Initially, he supported Rousseff's administration and sought to channel his expertise into fostering legislative collaboration. However, as Rousseff’s presidency progressed, Brazil faced escalating economic challenges and accusations of corruption, leading to widespread public discontent. These developments strained the alliance between Rousseff and Temer, culminating in Temer's departure from her government’s inner circle.

The turning point in Temer’s political career came in 2016. Amid growing political turmoil and calls for Rousseff’s impeachment over allegations related to fiscal mismanagement, Temer emerged as a pivotal figure. As Vice President, he was constitutionally positioned to assume the presidency if Rousseff was removed from office. In August 2016, following a contentious and polarized impeachment process, Rousseff was impeached by the Brazilian Senate, and Michel Temer was sworn in as the President of Brazil.

Temer’s presidency, lasting until December 31, 2018, was marked by efforts to address Brazil’s economic challenges. His administration implemented austerity measures and structural reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy. Though his government pursued fiscal adjustments, it faced criticism for the potential detrimental effects on the country’s social programs and public welfare. His tenure was also embroiled in corruption allegations, typical of the broader Operation Car Wash scandal that plagued many Brazilian politicians during this period. These challenges overshadowed many of his administration's efforts and fostered a climate of political uncertainty and public dissatisfaction.

Despite his controversial presidency, Temer’s political legacy is undeniable. His journey from a legal scholar to the highest office in Brazil’s government reveals a trajectory of strategic maneuvering and adaptability. Michel Temer’s career highlights his ability to navigate Brazil’s complex political landscape, balancing his roles as both a collaborative lawmaker and a decisive leader. His influence remains a significant reference point in discussions about modern Brazilian politics, as he exemplifies the interplay between legal expertise and political acumen in governance. Temer's political life encapsulates the challenges and intricacies of leading one of Latin America's largest nations through a period of tumultuous change.