The perception of increased corruption remains predominant among Brazilians in the third term of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT), according to a PoderData survey released this Monday (8).
The survey indicates that 47% of those interviewed believe that corruption has increased since the PT member took office, in January 2023.
Despite remaining the majority opinion, the percentage showed a slight decline in relation to the survey carried out in January this year, when 49% stated that cases of corruption had increased during the current administration.
On the other hand, the share of Brazilians who see a reduction in irregularities has increased. Currently, 21% say that corruption has decreased, compared to 18% recorded at the beginning of the year. Another 28% consider that the situation has remained the same, while 5% were unable to respond.
The numbers were collected at a time when the government is following developments in the Banco Master case, which began to occupy a relevant space in the political and economic debate after the extrajudicial liquidation of the financial institution by the Central Bank, in November 2025.
Changing focus on crises
The comparison with the previous survey shows a change in the political context that surrounds the perception of those interviewed. In January, the research was carried out during the repercussion of investigations related to undue discounts on INSS benefits. At that time, the government faced questions following revelations involving Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, known as Lulinha, the president’s eldest son.
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In the most recent round, the political environment began to be influenced by investigations linked to Banco Master. The institution’s founder, Daniel Vorcaro, was arrested after the operation that investigated irregularities in the financial system.
The Central Bank decreed the extrajudicial liquidation of the institution after pointing out liquidity problems, failures in internal controls and non-compliance with National Financial System rules. Vorcaro also gained visibility through meetings held with President Lula and through recorded visits to the Palácio do Planalto in 2023 and 2024.
The survey was carried out by PoderData between May 30th and June 1st, 2026. 2,500 people were interviewed in 166 municipalities spread across the 27 units of the Federation. The interviews were carried out over the telephone, using calls to cell phones and landlines. The margin of error is two percentage points, with a 95% confidence interval.
