From Samba to Scandal: The Harmful Consequences of George Santos’ Career on Brazilian-Americans

Article by Anna Castro Spratt, TPT Guest Writer

I've always believed in the power of representation to break down misbeliefs. Unfortunately, Representative George Santos seems determined to do the opposite, becoming a source of concern for Latinx Americans, particularly those with Brazilian roots like myself. His actions perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to a distorted image of Brazil in the United States. In the midst of George Santos' political antics, I can't help but wonder if there's a Portuguese translation for what others might call 'political idiocy.'
First to the conversation is his most recent scandal: his newly published Ethics Report. I must mention the issue of lying about Botox, a seemingly small matter that actually plays into damaging stereotypes about Brazilian beauty standards and plastic surgery. By falsely attributing his appearance to cosmetic procedures, Santos inadvertently fuels the stereotype that all Brazilians are obsessed with achieving a certain standard of beauty through artificial means, especially Brazilian women. From the invention of the Brazilian Butt Lift, Brazilian Blowout, Brazilian wax—this has become all that we are. Objects of cosmetic testing, obsessed with the image that the South American industry has made for us. But in reality, it is the American image that is far more damaging than many of these procedures. By doing something as simple as lying about his own Botox, Santos proves to the Americans who are searching for yet another reason to bash Latinos that we are too focused on our appearances to pay attention to our country, and in Santos’ case, his job. This misrepresentation erases the rich diversity of Brazilian identities and reduces our culture to a superficial image.

Hand in hand, the use of campaign funds on OnlyFans is a blatant disregard for the responsibility that comes with public office. This action not only contributes to harmful stereotypes about the hyper-sexualization of Brazilians but also raises questions about the ethical use of campaign resources. It is disappointing to see a representative engaging in behavior that undermines the trust of the very people he was elected to serve. As previously mentioned, Brazilian women are often judged by the country’s cosmetic industry—cosmetics which, in turn, lead to the recurring image of the “Perfect Brazilian Woman,” one who is sexy, curvy, tan, or any other word that leads to male attraction. As one of these Brazilian women, I see this stereotype unfold around me often, especially in the midst of male puberty occurring in high schools around me. I’m the victim of Latin hyper-sexualisation, mostly at the hands of white boys, and seeing Santos take part in this by proving to Americans that we are driven by sexual desires is a disappointing lie that, as a politician, he should have made an effort to disprove rather than reinforce. 

What makes this all the more troubling is Santos’ deliberate disregard for his culture in the first place. Santos' false claim of being “Jew-ish” to deny his Brazilian heritage is nothing short of problematic and concerning. On top of assimilating himself into a group of which he is not a part, and which politicians like him have contributed to the oppression of, Santos sends a message that being Brazilian is something to be ashamed of, perpetuating a damaging narrative that erodes our pride in our roots. This denial not only impacts the self-esteem of Brazilian Americans but also undermines the importance of diverse representation in Congress.

Denying his drag queen past in Brazil is another attempt to erase a part of his identity and contributes to the harmful notion that certain aspects of our culture should be hidden or denied in the American context. Embracing all facets of our background, including diverse expressions of identity, is crucial for fostering a more inclusive society. Pictures of him in drag as his persona, Kitara Ravanche, are indisputable, laughable, and really, cultural. Bright colors and exaggerated personas are both fundamental characteristics of Carnaval celebrators and events for which Brazil is known to be a powerhouse, such as the World Cup. While gayness and drag specifically may not be a Brazilian norm, both definitely maintain strong roots in our culture. 

Representative George Santos' actions not only harm his credibility but also perpetuate damaging stereotypes about Brazil and its people. It is time for a representative who embraces the richness of our culture and works towards breaking down harmful narratives, rather than contributing to them. The Brazilian American community deserves better representation—one that celebrates our diversity and challenges preconceived notions instead of reinforcing them.

So, if you feel bad for the downfall of George Santos’ career in Congress, just think about the consequences of his political career on Brazilians who were filled with hope at his election, and illustrious path in comedy he has ahead of him. That is, if we find a way to start laughing with him, instead of at him.