Authoritarianism and Right-Wing Voting in Brazil

Abstract Mounting evidence shows that authoritarian orientations exert a powerful influence on public opinion attitudes and candidate support. The 2018 Brazilian elections brought to power Jair Bolsonaro, with an open disregard for democracy democratic institutions. This study examines voters’ differences in authoritarianism electoral support right-wing candidate. It employs the AmericasBarometer national survey data demonstrate is politically important Brazil because of its association toward use force as well conservative social political attitudes. effect probability voting Bolsonaro large other relevant behavior variables such ideology, negative partisanship, or religiosity, whereas nonauthoritarian voters spread their votes across candidates. Although these are also Bolsonaro’s victory, his candidacy was uniquely able mobilize coalition voters. Whether not remains salient cleavage electorate considered along consequences this potential divide competition politics.